A joy for foodies, peace seekers and lovers of period architecture… note the Honduran mahogany banister with inlaid jet and pearl

A converted farmhouse set in a large mature garden, well located for exploring the delights of the Lot et Garonne south of the Dordogne

Converted stables on a fruitful and beautiful estate with gardens, sculpture walks, wildflower meadows and a farm-to-fork restaurant

Sun-dappled walks along the romantic avenues, big bedrooms, breakfasts inside or out, a laid-back atmosphere and great markets nearby

This famous old country house might not come cheap, but where else can you splash out in such decadent style for life’s big celebrations?

Lovely owners have created this quirky space on their farm; side-by-side al fresco baths make it romantic for two

Between Penzance & Helston, close to Praa Sands, is a beautiful bolthole for 6. Good for garden lovers & peace-seekers – dog-friendly too

A small, trendy hotel, very much of its time, with oodles of style, stunning bedrooms and fantastic staff

Such lovely views from this light-filled flat, built in the 19th century – curl up with a book and gaze out to sea

Charming 4-star gîte in an 11th-century castle in the foothills of the Pyrénées. Spectacular views, leafy terrace and wild swimming nearby

A cosy bolt hole near medieval Cartmel with woods, meadows and wildlife – great for walkers in this quiet part of the South Lakes

Stables turned into bright, comfortable holiday homes in countryside near Battle - for couples and families, whose dogs are very welcome too

A lovely restored house on a farm beside a cluster of ancient buildings surrounded by lush forest and grasslands – a deeply rural spot

Your own cottage on a wine estate in a very beautiful part of the South Downs, famed for world-class sparkling wines

Peaceful Basque farmhouse turned smart country B&B, only 20 minutes from restaurants and museums in Bilbao and unspoiled sandy beaches

Off the beaten track and into the hills – this remote, unknown bird-filled region is faultless for outdoorsy people

In château parkland, 10 minutes from Chinon, find books, beams and open spaces for three renovated houses, a delight for families

A striking 200-year-old coaching inn in a sleepy village with a classic, traditional pub feel, superb food and wines, pretty bedrooms