17th-century farmhouse full of colour and interest with friendly hosts and great breakfasts. Explore the Cotswolds – bring the dog too

A spacious and bright old sandstone farm building with private garden, all one one level and with lovely views over fields and countryside

The old family house, all antiques, mementoes and period atmosphere, has fine big rooms and high-modern Italian showers. A lovely owner, too

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

Creative owners have made a gorgeous, arty space for couples or a small group of friends; good beaches and Salcombe are close

A stately retreat, an oasis of calm and beauty. Picnic on the lawns, enjoy a glass of home-produced prosecco beneath a centuries-old tree

Stylish B&B rooms in a peaceful little château, amongst rolling hills, woods and farmland - bikes and boules to borrow, lovely pool to share

Enjoy a bucolic setting (hike, ride, cycle) near medieval Vannes, a short hop from the sea – and lively conversation with friendly hosts

Stay in the wilds of south Cork, where new life is being breathed into a much-loved family home and you can simply join in

Come for amazing food at breakfast, really comfortable bedrooms with garden views and lovely Sasha (and her dogs) who will spoil you

Treat yourselves to a stay in the gloriously comfortable Astor Wing with private terrace and views to Hever Castle and the Tudor Garden

Fresh, inviting bedrooms with leafy garden views and a pretty church next door. Moffat's spectacular Grey Mare's Tail waterfall nearby

A timbered, fire-warmed village farmhouse, home-grown dinners, delightfully French hosts. Deliciously authentic, generous and calm

In truffle, lavender and olive oil country, a dreamy wine château with terraced gardens, run by hosts whose happiness is infectious

A characterful coaching inn in a lively market town surrounded by manicured countryside - Chester's mighty Roman walls are close

Ensconce yourselves in the Black Périgord and stay in a very pretty flat in the East Wing of a 16th-century castle

Immaculate barn conversion set in glorious countryside with fabulous beaches and the wilds of Dartmoor within easy reach

Be inspired by owner Oriane’s interiors, explore the region’s famous markets, and soak up the charm of the Perche countryside