In a quiet, ancient country town – outdoor breakfasts and indoor style: trompe l’oeil decorations, frescoes, vaulted panelled ceilings

An hour from Edinburgh, this large estate wrapped in ancient woodland & steeped in history is a super outdoorsy retreat – dogs welcome too

Vineyards, fruit trees and immaculate gardens, amazing food and wine, a sense of seclusion and sweeping views of the Tuscan hills

Light-filled gites share a lovely pool, with pétanque, ping-pong and bikes to borrow – bring friends and take all three

Peaceful escape for couples in the grounds of a stately Tudor manor house; watch the wildlife from your garden, explore the nearby coast

Comfortable apartment steeped in Breton history, in a beautifully renovated gabarier’s house overlooking the marine estuary

A big friendly farmhouse basking in light, with terraces, vineyards, pool and views to several horizons, good for family gatherings

On top of sand dunes, this bright and airy cottage has glorious views, walks are lovely and you can bring your dog

This old stone building, a former olive warehouse, is beautifully restored and sits on its own – a simple bolthole for rest and recuperation

Bask in the warmth of the owners at this chic 'maison de maître' in off-track Provence - 12km from lovely hilltop Gordes

Idyllic cottage hidden in deepest, foodiest Somerset - bask on your own patio among roses and sweet peas. Bring bikes - loads to explore

Come to stay in a lovely old house surrounded by an important garden created by three generations of brilliant women gardeners

For escapists, wannabe writers and lovers of rural bliss: two boho hideaways for two (four at a squeeze) in this lush corner of Galicia

An 18th-century beamed inn with tasty food, pretty bedrooms and a large garden just a ten-minute drive from Chichester

A smartly renovated village pub with rooms welcoming locals, visitors, families and dogs on a Staffordshire country estate

This stately-looking former manor house set back from the road in acres of gardens serves very good food and has rustic-chic bedrooms

A small yet elegant place for couples or small groups to enjoy the open countryside, rest, join a cooking course or book a massage