Bags of character within and without at this four-storey village house with rooftop views over the mountains, next to a 12th-century church

Traditional Provencal farmhouse with a large garden and a swimming pool. Historic villages with markets and great restaurants close by

Elegant, calm, charming B&B in a 12th-century house surrounded by fields, quiet country roads and vibrant little villages

Three very special places to stay on one glorious estate. Gather those whose company you enjoy and immerse yourselves in beauty and history

High on a hill in the Tyne Valley, undisturbed except by birds singing and the wind whistling; views swoop down to a magical landscape

Well-positioned winery for the whole of the Bordeaux region. Or stay put and learn about the Duhamels’ super organic Cotes de Bourg wines

Off the beaten track and into the hills – this remote, unknown bird-filled region is faultless for outdoorsy people

A glorious château near Tours – authentic, huge fun, steeped in family history and surrounded by gorgeous gardens with a serene pool

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

Find good taste, peacefulness and warm hospitality, steps away from the car-free Via Toledo, in the heart of the city

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

You’re in Snowdonia National Park: cycle, hike, swim, climb & trampoline to your heart’s content. Come home to comfort, warmth, grand views

Plenty of uncluttered easy space both in and out by the private pool - children love the freedom - great wine, food, and cycling country

A smart red-brick country pub in the centre of the village with a farm shop, brewery, Wellness Barn, super food and three charming bedrooms

A village setting for this family-friendly cottage-in-a-row with private garden next to the owners' pretty 17th-century thatched house

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

Charming trulli apartments promise rustic comfort and panoramic views (horses too). Perfectly placed for exploring the area

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