Gloriously green rural self-catering apartments with pool and lovely, friendly owners

Cosy country cottage for four on an organic farm in the Welsh borders. Wake to the sounds of birds and sheep, walk off supper on rural romps

Fabulous bakes and hot waffles at breakfast, green fields all around and Normandy steeped in history. Great for foodies and historians

Shed your urban cares here with a gorgeous living space, woods and meadows to wander and stunning views of The Black Mountains

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

Immaculate Cotswold beauty with great food, welcoming staff, handsome rooms and a sun-trap terrace, plus countryside walks from the door

A converted old granary next to a traditional Welsh longhouse in a deeply rural setting for unfussy nature lovers

This friendly, Scottish island B&B has the Atlantic at the end of the garden and air so clean the lichen grows like beards from the trees

Walkers, nature lovers, couples will love this eco-friendly cottage near Calgary beach: a breath of warmth in the beautiful back of beyond

Lavender shortbread and baked peaches for breakfast at this most artistic of homes. The courtyard with magnolia and orange trees is lovely

Nestled next to the main house, this feels part cottage and part townhouse, making a cosy retreat just a couple of miles from the coast

A very generous amount of space in this beautifully restored annexe with heated pool and outstanding views over the East Devon AONB

Step into the valley region from this beautifully restored 17th-century house surrounded by saltwater and freshwater canals and lakes

Beautifully refurbished inn with good food, calming rooms and the South Downs all around. Chichester, Petworth and Goodwood are close

Superbly renovated rooms in a famous town-centre inn at the heart of the Loire châteaux region, excellent food

Year-round Alpine fun at this peaceful home a short hop from the peaks with calm bedrooms, delicious breakfasts and mountain views

In a commanding position surrounded by private land, this old manor house is excellently equipped and ideal for a big family holiday

If you want to come to Venice as an open-hearted traveller rather than a tourist then this is the place for you - just walk to everything