After a bountiful breakfast of Loch Fyne kippers and homemade scones, head for Oban, gateway to the isles. Return to a dram by the fire

A beautiful house with Pyrenean views, generous hosts and wonderful hiking, biking and skiing nearby. A rare pearl

Great staff, beautiful design, a fine old building and sublime food make this 600-year-old inn a perfect escape all year round

Four bright and warm cottages with gardens, for families and friends, plus activities for children and endless walks for you and your dog

Wake to ocean views, breakfast overlooking the sea and a beach stroll in the afternoon from this smart lodge on the Dunskey Estate

After a day touring châteaux, return to this pretty, very comfortable cottage with private terrace and a garden filled with birdsong

Beauty, charm and tranquillity an hour from Florence, on a bio-sensitive farm known for Chianina cattle and white truffles

A scented garden, delicious local delicacies and those coastal landscapes. This place is a sensory feast

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

Light-filled retreat full of character and vintage finds, with sparkling wine, cider and farm-fresh produce on your doorstep

A lovely old traditional mas, built around a courtyard with lots of outdoor space and rambling gardens for happy gatherings, and sunny days

A swishly renovated detached hideaway up a hill, surrounded by vineyards and with a covered deck for sweeping views just outside Beaune

Stables turned into bright, comfortable holiday homes in countryside near Battle - for couples and families, whose dogs are very welcome too

Be inspired by hilltop views, unwind in beamed rooms by huge fireplaces or scramble down to the beach for family adventures

Fire up the BBQ, watch the sunsets, stroll to one of the best stretches of coastline in the world. Bliss for walkers, birders and escapees

Spoiling bedrooms, fabulous food and a lovely position lost in the hills make this Lakeland inn hard to resist - bring your walking boots

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

A small, quirky country house hotel with lovely staff, pretty rooms and heavenly food served in a pillared dining room