A big friendly farmhouse basking in light, with terraces, vineyards, pool and views to several horizons, good for family gatherings

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?

Two peaceful spaces in a beautiful garden with a morning concert from the birds and a terrace for magical outdoor meals

You're right on the water in this 1820 granary-turned-hotel, with calming bedrooms, bustling bar and restaurant serving excellent local fare

A stone built 18th-century tower in a pretty valley dotted with fruit trees for quiet and relaxed days recuperating from life in the city

Come to be cosseted in this gloriously peaceful retreat among beautiful gardens with much old-fashioned charm and excellent food

A glorious château near Tours – authentic, huge fun, steeped in family history and surrounded by gorgeous gardens with a serene pool

A superb palazzo in beautiful old Florence with 13 design rooms, a cocktail menu and breakfast in your room. Arty, stylish and near the Duomo

A honey-hued family home clad with vines and roses with a swimming pool and heaps of space – perfect for families

Come for a restorative and restful stay on a wine estate with a beautiful landscaped garden and engaging owners who make you delicious meals

A very tastefully restored old stone stable on a gloriously rural estate with woodland gardens, lake and a deer park

Rural peace just an hour from London in your own gorgeous converted hay barn, ten minutes from Alton

Escape your cares here, move from terrace to terrace tracking the sun's progress and dive into the sea from your own swimming platform

Feather pillows, welcome goodies, an extensive batterie de cuisine... the hosts are super generous, the views are to die for

This warm and friendly little hotel is on a mission - to give you really good food, excellent wine and a very comfortable night's sleep

A hammock by the pool, dinner under the stars, Andalucian nature (wild boar, birds, olives) all around. Chatty English hosts charm all

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

Explore country markets, churches and châteaux - return to a gite in private parkland with an artist's studio on site, and a blissful pool