Blissful tranquillity - yet an easy drive from St Paul de Vence (legendary haunt of Matisse and Picasso) and 10km from the Riviera

Independence at one end of the house with your own sitting room opening onto a courtyard garden. Good pub for food a few minutes' walk away

Rustic, sophisticated, relaxed, charming… ancient Follonico is all these things, and gazes on the loveliest hills in Tuscany

Cosy Lakeland stone barn in acres of peaceful countryside for walkers, wildlife lovers and those wishing for a retreat

Your hosts couldn’t be nicer and look after you beautifully – this is a lovely, homely place with a rambling garden

Designed with style and comfort, peaceful, sophisticated and serene with countryside views. And you have your own lovely pool

Foodies and sociable souls will enjoy this lively B&B in a pretty honey-coloured stone cottage with a garden and a very friendly owner

A truly peaceful and charming hideout in a joyful, bird-filled setting - look after yourselves and retreat, or be thoroughly spoiled

Attractive country barn - great for two families sharing, for river trips, for playing in the pool, for running free

Something to astound at every turn where the traditional and downright quirky collide to stunning effect. Friendly, flexible hosts too

Glorious views across Northumberland countryside from this peaceful and comfortable cottage with almost an acre of garden

Technically in Florence yet immersed in the Tuscan hills: easy comfort, country character, warm wonderful hosts, heavenly views

This small hotel with pool has elegant communal spaces, spoiling bedrooms, kind staff, delicious food and panoramic mountain views

A sleek, light-filled, beautifully designed, minimalist space for 4 with wrap-around views from the living room and pool

A small, charming house with ravishing sea views within walking distance of a bohemian coastal village at the foot of the Teix mountain

Sheep's Head Way is reputedly one of the best walks in Ireland. Come back to roaring fires, a Rayburn, art and style – terrific restorations

A bit like staying with friends in a smart country house, but not having to help - an elegant refuge near Bradford-on-Avon