Canoeing on the Tamar, valley walks galore, with the woodland garden a sea of daffodils in the spring. A magical self-catering hideaway

This shuttered, stone maison in Gascony on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrims' route is a joy for families to spend time together

A neatly-converted old farmhouse on a quiet country lane with bright living spaces, heated pool, garden and hot tub just minutes from sandy beaches

A beautifully designed B&B for foodies, cyclists and walkers in a village surrounded by trees just 15 minutes from the coast

A splendid supper à la carte (three courses) is included here, together with airy rooms and sweeping gardens. The Solway Firth is close

Eight miles from York, near Moors and coast, this smart historic home is just the ticket for families and small groups of friends

Charming cottage surrounded by acres of wildflower meadows: drive to Newport in 15 minutes, walk the Pembrokeshire coastline

Unwind here in the rolling hills with the river bustling along, your own secluded garden and an unpretentious cottage full of character

A very comfortable, pretty cottage, safe for dogs and young children, surrounded by garden and mature woodland on the Badminton Estate

Gorgeous off-grid suites invite you to slow down surrounded by nature with long views and good food

Victorian country house for 8-15 with gardens overlooking the Howgill Fells for happy reunions with family and friends

A smart riverside inn with airy interiors that brim with character – old beams, open fires, well-kept ales and comfy bedrooms

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

A fine designer house and pool above the coastal hurly-burly and one of the loveliest coves in Spain, backing onto a nature park. Happy hols

Deep in Burgundy's wine country, an elegant maison de maître sits in acres of gloriously private parkland

A 19th-century bothy in remote, rugged countryside on the edge of the Cairngorms, for walkers, birders and seekers of peace

A beautiful little collection of trulli near the Valle d’Itria – restored with flair and with gardens, woods and pool

Come to stay in a lovely old house surrounded by an important garden created by three generations of brilliant women gardeners