A sprint from London: a Cotswolds pub modernised with sympathy and care. Happy staff, organic ales and food, gorgeous rooms

A harmonious B&B in Chinon wine country. Home-cooked food, comfortable beds, easy conservations with your host and starry skies at night

This is a superb base to explore the island's glittering bays, vibrant coastal cities, mountains, valleys and forests

A pleasing (not very little) place to stay in the heart of a wood within the unspoilt countryside of the South Downs National Park

Enjoy fields of lavender and vines as far as the eye can see from this neat cottage, sharing a pool and gorgeous gardens with other guests

Immerse yourself in nature, wildlife, sustainability and slow food high up on the edge of a National Park

Down a track with a delightfully remote feel but near to the coast and with good walking and cycling; views out to sea are awesome

A family retreat high above the river Dordogne and deep in woodland - with heated pool, games room and village restaurants a stroll away

Families can unwind at this lovely old higgledy-piggledy farmhouse in typical southern Algarve style, with a big pool and lush greenery

Explore from this picturesque village; hike, cycle or ride through beautiful nature. Lay your head in creative, comfortable rooms

Spacious house with a big garden, a swimming pool and all home comforts; the beach and good restaurants are less than 10 minutes away

A romantic cottage for two in the Pentland Hills, with views for miles and your own private garden with a wood-fired hot tub

Between Penzance and Helston and close to sandy beaches is a sweet space for four. Good for young families and all garden lovers

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

Off-the-beaten track cottage promises peace and quiet, wild swimming and hikes in the hills. A world away from the urban jungle

The Test valley is a place of pilgrimage for fly fishermen, but this lovely country inn welcomes all with great food and lovely bedrooms

A private house set in Cornwall's largest rewilding estate, ancient and quiet, made for slow family gatherings and long, easy days

Quirky, rustic cabin nuzzled by vines and greenery – perfect for lovers, writers and peace-seekers. Take long walks, stroll to the pub