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

A nicely priced inn on Shaftesbury's high street with a warm contemporary style and some excellent food – fine local walking waits

Light-filled retreat full of character and vintage finds, with handmade touches and farm-fresh produce on your doorstep

Quaint barns dotted among truffle oaks and rosemary, each one constructed the old-fashioned way and close to the Dordogne and Vézère

Gloriously green rural self-catering apartments with pool and lovely, friendly owners

A lovingly restored ancient farmhouse surrounded by wildlife-rich countryside just two miles from stunning beaches – a place to mend

Georgian country house with rustic charm and a home-from-home feel. In the heart of Wiltshire just outside historic town Bradford-on-Avon

In wine country, a beautifully revived 16th-century manor and hospitable B&B. Visit Angers’ cathedral, cruise along the Loire to Saumur

Come for a spot of pampering and seriously good food at this smart townhouse B&B with spa, garden and pool in the heart of Abbeville

A wonderful old 1397 village inn, filled with history and character. Find gracious bedrooms, roaring fires, good food and a pretty garden

For retreats, groups of friends, and big families: come to recharge the senses at this special and ancient house enveloped by wild gardens

Families and walkers will be happy at this unfussy seaside retreat with beaches down the road and coastal paths right by your door

Pluck grapes, splash in the child-shallow pool and explore the ‘Yorkshire of Italy’ with rolling green hills and conical trulli

Come for an authentic French village experience in this old stone house next to the church with glorious countryside for walks and cycles

A magical spot on an island for nature lovers, sybarites, and foodies. Watch sunsets from the sofa and stargaze from bed

Lovely views over the river Anglin from the large windows of this old industrial-like building, once used for honey production on the estate

A tranquil agriturismo within easy reach of Padua. Superb views of the Euganean Hills, chic bedrooms and fine wine to sample

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