Like staying in a family home, only with Henri III furniture and rolling green views. Energetic hosts cook, farm, hunt, chat over champagne

A light and bright 1900s holiday home for family holidays by the sea, with a large enclosed garden and a short hop to beach and shops

Come for good architecture, thoughtful design and much space for relaxing: swimming, massages, hammam and sauna, beautiful bedrooms

Fragrant gardens full of fruit trees, a lovingly renovated house just a few minutes’ walk from the village, and excellent breakfasts

Cosy apartment for two in a cluster of farm buildings near Hawkshead, surrounded by countryside and with a good pub a stroll away

A super Georgian cottage with its own private garden, very comfortable bedrooms and acres of bird-filled grounds to explore

The wow factor is set to eleven at this magnificent château steeped in French history and surrounded by acres of land (and a moat)

An enchanting Belle Epoque villa with a terraced garden and superb views across palm trees and vines to Mont Saint-Michel

A view-filled waterside retreat surrounded by ten acres of meadow and trees, with a cosy firepit for starry nights

Sumptuous rooms with Renaissance-inspired art, infinity pool and gardens, just a short drive to Mantua’s historic city centre

A classic period property right on the river, perfectly placed to explore the delights of nearby Marlborough

A sprint from London: a Cotswolds pub modernised with sympathy and care. Happy staff, organic ales and food, gorgeous rooms

A delightful retreat perfectly placed for walking, cycling and visiting some of the region’s most popular sights

Gardeners will be very happy staying in this generous, comfortable B&B surrounded by stunning gardens with year-round interest

Lovely stone-built dog-friendly cottages with a pool in glorious, quiet surroundings near to lakes, mountains and wide sandy beaches

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

Sublime views across the Tuscan countryside, seasonal food and the kindest host. Children are welcome, oenophiles will be in heaven

Within the city walls and right next to the Minster, this super-smart hotel gives you gorgeous bedrooms and delicious food