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

Nestled in lovely grounds, this country pub serves up cracking food and real ales. Wonderful walks nearby, comfy rooms to rest for the night

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

Cosy terraced cottage in a small village near lovely pubs, restaurants and independent shops; Southwold, Aldeburgh and the coast are near

A happy guest told us, ‘A marvellous way to see a beautiful château and this is probably the best that we have stayed in’

A light and bright 1900s holiday home for family holidays by the sea, with a large enclosed garden and a short hop to beach and shops

A chic bolthole in a sleepy Suffolk village with seriously good food, stylish bedrooms, riverside walks and Suffolk’s wild coast

A beautifully designed B&B for foodies, cyclists and walkers in a village surrounded by trees just 15 minutes from the coast

Beautifully restored historical building in the heart of Vichy, just steps away from the famous Opera House

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

Your own wing of a Grade II-listed hall and estate next to a nature reserve, with lovely walks and good restaurants on your doorstep

High up and with splendid views of the estuary and harbour, this roomy apartment is a very comfortable base for seaside holidays

Come for a pretty 1860s house in a very fine spot, lovely gardens with views, traditional bedrooms, good food and super-friendly staff

Come for a spot of indulgence, with seriously good food and wine, oodles to do in the courtyard, great bedrooms and a cool spa for a splurge

A sylvan hideaway tucked into the hills of the Southern Alps, full of Provençal charm inside and out – Saint-Cézaire and the coast are close

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 glorious retreat for nature lovers with a natural swimming pool, bikes to borrow and the timeless soundtrack of the water surrounding you

Restored mill house with a stream running through the garden, and warm hosts who give you suppers made from their homegrown produce