Proper village pub with much-praised food and cosy rooms; country walks lead from the door and Oxford is half an hour away

A majestic renovation of a Victorian 'model' farm with underfloor heating, open plan design, light bright lines and not a whiff of IKEA

Two cottages for couples: one more traditional, the other fresh and modern, both comfortable and romantic and there's a good pub next door

Creative owners have made a gorgeous, arty space for couples or a small group of friends; good beaches and Salcombe are close

A beautifully restored townhouse in the heart of Amboise, steps from Leonardo da Vinci's last home and the great Château Royal

A boutique hotel on the edge of Arcachon Bay. A natural pool, zen gardens, contemporary Eastern-style interiors, and good food await

Bedrooms with terraces and views over St Michael’s Mount Bay. Explore the gardens; walk from the door to glorious beaches

A stroll from the village, this comfy house in its terraced garden comes with a keen-cook's kitchen, a generous terrace and pool

An impressive limestone house on three levels created within the ruins of an ancient village with uninterrupted views of the Vézère valley

Good bolthole with two terraces offering spectacular views over the historic town, and restaurants and bars a short stroll

Pops of colour and neon signs bring fun to this smart and warm family home near Brancaster beach

Two lovely cottages, packed with atmosphere, character and comfort in a magical timeless valley surrounded by nature

A beautifully designed wooden lodge with hot tub on the deck, glass-front wood-burner, plenty of space and complete immersion in nature

A sparkling house for two overlooking azure waters, starry skies and Stromboli’s light show - that’ll do nicely grazie

The South West Coast Path passes by this waterfront pub on the Teign estuary. Come for fresh bedrooms, classic dishes and excellent walking

A stylish, canal-side inn – you get Sunday lunch, tow paths that lead into Edinburgh, then a pretty garden and cute rooms

A nicely priced inn on Shaftesbury's high street with a warm contemporary style and some excellent food – fine local walking waits