Saint Emilion and Castillon both a hop away from a warm, wonderful barn with owners to match. Stylish, cosy and deep in organic vines

On top of sand dunes, this bright and airy cottage has glorious views, walks are lovely and you can bring your dog

A delightfully untouched and simple cottage and garden for old-fashioned family seaside holidays just a short walk to Mawgan Porth beach

A pair of historic houses with far-reaching views of the Cotswold Hills and walks from the gate

Come to be inspired - by the buildings, the art, the concept and the rich history. You should be very comfortable too, and well fed

Come for the gloriously peaceful countryside and this 1700s house and garden, scrupulously renovated and with plenty of space

An L-shaped former farmhouse is now a gorgeous place to stay, just half an hour from the sea or the mountains and near interesting villages

Dorset unfurls all around you: walk the coast path, hunt for fossils, gaze at Durdle Door, explore Weymouth from this sea-facing pub

Woodland retreat above Loch Tummel. Silence, sunsets and star-filled skies in a 70s bungalow that blends retro charm with modern comfort

A babbling brook, the sound of birdsong and centuries of history steeped into the walls of this medieval barn, plus a heated indoor pool

Beautiful architecture, amazing wine cellars, great food, and hosts with an infectious enthusiasm for classical music. Lovely French B&B

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

A romantic and very comfortable retreat in a smartly converted dairy with a pretty garden, close to the South Downs

A small hotel with gorgeous interiors, friendly staff, spacious rooms, a proper library, pretty garden and a relaxed, homely feel

A spoiling hotel for a properly grown up escape on the Chatsworth Estate. Bring your loved one and do as much or as little as you fancy

Shady spots in the garden, a pool overlooked by tall palms, a bar nook stocked with drinks and a new spa in the Serra do Açor

An 18th-century stone cottage sitting in the glorious Yorkshire Dales. Nature-lovers and walkers will be well pleased and so will their dog

Set off on blissful walks, trek home to crumpets and tea. There’s no better place to escape the 21st century than rural Devon