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

A restored Grade II listed flint barn with roots in the 13th century, a serene lily pond and mesmerising views over the South Downs

Rural Andalusian retreat with bags of boho style promises wide-open skies, mountain vistas and fabulous meals prepared by your host

Historic 19th-century maison de maître, perfect for a gathering of friends, within walking distance of the old town’s charms

A characterful coaching inn in a lively market town surrounded by manicured countryside - Chester's mighty Roman walls are close

A small, rural cottage high in the wooded hills with long views, your own private pool, utter peace and quiet and a superb restaurant nearby

Birders will love escaping up here, golfers too - visit Hatfield House, Knebworth, Cambridge - come back to a good local pub and a comfy bed

Your very own château in the Dordogne for big family get-togethers and special celebrations

A traditional stone bergerie high on a hill and surrounded by woods with east-facing views over the valley for stunning sunrises

Come for pristine beaches, long walks to Barbate, sea views, whale watching trips and serene suites

In pretty Vernon, a peaceful and comfortably large townhouse with roses rambling around the door

Take breakfast on the terrace, splash in the fabulous pool. A secluded, friendly, immaculate villa close to golf and surfing beaches

An exquisite, serene B&B with sweeping views, tucked between hills, vineyards and meadows and the ancient remains of a Benedictine abbey

Friendly owners settle you in to this cool, creatively styled barn. Perfect for groups & families with big pool & garden

Rest, restore, and explore... from this smart, successful Cotswolds’ gastropub with ancient beams, roaring fires and truly pretty bedrooms

This fine old Dordogne house is run by well-travelled owners, has superb views and is a luscious mix of old charm and contemporary design

A lovely villa with masses of space, filled with modern art and near to walking trails, beaches, shops and restaurants

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way