Two family-friendly gites (big groups can take both) with beautiful gardens, sparkling pool, activities for children and peace for parents

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

An elegant house with ancient roots and a shimmering pool – explore the Charente countryside, drive to lovely Angoulême

Hike down secret paths and along the Suffolk coast before a superb lunch or supper at this friendly inn; sweet bedrooms too

Your own cottage sitting room downstairs and a swish bedroom up – breakfast in the courtyard before venturing forth to discover Canterbury

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

Part of the original Wensleydale creamery overlooking the river, with bustling Hawes and great walking country right on your doorstep

Modest and authentic, a top-floor apartment in an eco-friendly Provençal farmhouse, with dogs and hens. River swims are a stroll away...

Stay just minutes from the sea in colourful Donaghadee for wild swims, island visits, bird watching and coastal walks

A stylish, cosy, stone-flagged cottage with vintage and modern furniture, wood-burners, patios and views - and three excellent pubs nearby

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

A light-filled village cottage for 2 near Bosherston Lily Ponds. Come to ramble the coastal path, enjoy sandy beaches and visit local pubs

A charming B&B in south Sardinia, near Cagliari: circled by palms and cypresses, overlooking sweet-smelling lemon & orange groves. Bliss

A modern take on an Iron Age roundhouse with stunning sea views in Scotland’s wild west, perfect for couples

Historic buildings by a turreted manor house, beautifully renovated to welcome large parties with grounds to roam and dreamy river views

A heavenly setting for this very well-hidden cottage with its own small pool, amazing views and delightful pebble beach below

Up in the hills, an amazing family holiday with Lorna and Lee. Weekly paella nights, great pool, lovely walking. Beauty therapies, too...

A hilltop setting for this ancient fortress with an illustrious past. You stay in apartments or farmhouses inside or outside the walls