Wow. The sort of place you long for on dreary days - inspired architecture, heavenly views, delicious home-cooked food, a lake for swimming

From the delicious scented garden with its limestone pool to the cool rooms with perfect linen, this is a place for a special occasion

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

A mix of bold colours, modern art and vintage finds give this classic French mansion bags of personality

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

One of England's oldest coaching inns, full of history and wonky floors, on a Surrey market town's high street

Traditional B&B in a beautiful château bursting with history and surrounded by formal gardens, then farmland and two fine rivers

The road hugs the rocky coast with glorious views to the Mull of Kintyre and three fishing village cottages where modern comforts abound

Special back-to-nature, stargazing loft for couples and families, on a nature-filled estate in Piedmont

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

Rustic charm and homely hospitality – this 12th-century hideaway in a medieval village is perfect for slow days, wine and wandering

A pool, pines, and hosts that give you figs from their garden! Stroll to a pizzeria through the olive groves, return to 2 lovely apartments

This stylish little art-filled inn has comfortable rooms, is surrounded by good walking countryside and serves delicious food - rest here

Elegant house deep in the countryside with wild garden, dreamy pool, and bags of vintage charm. A promise of peace and perfect solitude

A three storey house and garden with sea glimpses in the 'vieux village' named for the Mimosa trees which flower in profusion in winter

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

Two lovely cottages sleeping eight for very special holidays with a private beach, acres of land to explore and a welcome hamper of dreams

A village setting for this family-friendly cottage-in-a-row with private garden next to the owners' pretty 17th-century thatched house