Shady spots in the garden, a pool overlooked by tall palms, a bar nook stocked with drinks and a new spa in the Serra do Açor

The Dordogne flows through the gastronomic heart of France, where stunning villages cling to rock faces and historic riches are in store

An interesting historic townhouse filled with art and antiques, in the old part of Amantea, near shops, restaurants and beach

Your host runs home and B&B with effortless efficiency and you'll find shiny, spotless rooms to retreat to after a day's exploring

A red-brick cottage and Shepherd’s hut in a magical garden with a cookery school and views over the South Downs

It's not often you get an entire hamlet to yourselves but here it is – 10 traditional stone houses with big communal spaces in rural bliss

Eight miles from York, near Moors and coast, this smart historic home is just the ticket for families and small groups of friends

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

Elegant country château with a family feel, for big groups with or without children, and those who seek inspiration

Warm interiors, pretty bedrooms and excellent breakfasts – good value in a very handy central spot

An ancient manor from the middle ages, built against a stone cliff with extensive terraced grounds, pool and parkland filled with wildlife

Classic crofter’s cottage with a minimalist chic makeover - soft colours, designer lighting - surrounded by peace; a romantic hideaway

A cosy, very comfortable stone cottage with fine views across the valley, just a couple of miles from the southern tip of Ullswater

Two lovely cottages with a fresh, modern style, private terrace, tranquil communal gardens with an orchard and pool

Come to walk, cycle, fish and hunker down in style in front of the wood-burner - sleep in deep comfort in a lovingly converted barn

Come for a spot of high-end cossetting with big, beautiful bedrooms, good food and far-reaching views in the Northumberland National Park

Glorious Elizabethan manor house lovingly furnished with exceptional art and antiques by its welcoming owners

Cottages, rooms and apartments on an historic 18th-century family estate with gorgeous gardens, a shared pool and a view-filled terrace