Friendly touches everywhere, terrific food and drink, smart bedrooms above the sparkling bar – dogs and children welcome

Up, up and away to this stunning cottage perched 1400 feet high in the National Park with big skies, grand walks and much comfort indoors

Deeply peaceful countryside retreat with exceptional food and wine laid on by Sam and Heather, your friendly hosts

You'll feel relaxed in this big light-filled house with plunge pool and outdoor cinema; walk along the river with Portugal on the other side

A cosy bolt hole near medieval Cartmel with woods, meadows and wildlife – great for walkers in this quiet part of the South Lakes

Between Penzance and Helston and close to surf beaches, a perfect place for two. For peace-seekers and lovers of mid-century design

Tranquil stone house with a rustic feel, a large garden with a swimming pool and views of the French Riviera and out to sea

A classic period property right on the river, perfectly placed to explore the delights of nearby Marlborough

A country house, elegant and unstuffy, at the heart of a working Lazio olive farm. Lunch by the pool or unwind at the hot spring spa

Small hotel in a hiker's paradise a short walk from Cómpeta with pool, spacious rooms, private terraces, breathtaking views and generous breakfasts

Sweep along the gravel drive through lawns and specimen trees to this elegant manor house with 17th-century roots

High in the Tuscan hills, at the end of an avenue of cypresses, surrounded by parkland and acres of olives... a 13th-century dream

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

A sleek space designed with the majestic surroundings in mind. You have your own private barbecue area and a shared large garden

An L-shaped former farmhouse is now a gorgeous place to stay, just half an hour from the sea or the mountains and near interesting villages

Chatty Madame is a superb cook, and her pretty house and garden in a quiet Yvelines village are equally delicious. Zip to Paris by train

A true gem - sleep in a small hillside castle, share delicious communal meals, walk or cycle to the beautiful waterfalls nearby

Beautiful B&B in idyllic setting, with natural salt water pool and plenty of relaxed communal spaces