Warm, interesting hosts and a fascinating celebration of 20th-century style. Gleaming en suites, original Art Deco furniture, WWII books...

Log fires smoulder, rooms are comfortable, the food is delicious and there's bags of character at this old village pub – once a cider house

This civilised bolthole offers a quiet retreat, castle views and the magic of Edinburgh on your doorstep

A delightful eyrie surrounded by water, forest, wildflowers in spring and summer, views to distant islands - just a short stroll to Ullapool

A magical medieval castello, gloriously gothic with tower, moat and ghost, fit for a Shakespearian play.

A 200-year-old quintessential Umbrian farmhouse with pool, immersed in nature and with no immediate neighbours for lazy, peaceful days

A big, beamed contemporary barn filled with light and surrounded by unspoilt countryside for a romantic retreat.

With breathtaking views of the hills above Nice, a splendid villa with big bedrooms, shimmering infinity pool, and generous, fun owners

A cosy nest on the ramparts of an ancient fishing port, with sparkling lagoon views from a top-floor living area

Hideaway in the hills complete with private pool and outdoor kitchen. Spend days hiking or on a sun lounger - perfect for families

Remote three-bedroom cottage in Northumberland National Park, with far-reaching views over hills and valleys and walks in all directions

A stylish base for those who want to explore the beautiful north – expect good food, stylish interiors and a pretty market town

A romantic cottage for two in the Pentland Hills, with views for miles and your own private garden with a wood-fired hot tub

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

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

A very swish 1610 house, thoroughly refurbished, in the heart of old Chichester with oodles of space and a surprisingly large garden

A magical chateau set in the forested hills of Burgundy with lovely rooms, peaceful walks, home cooking and a merry welcome

A charming gite tucked into acres of ancient parkland, with an outdoor kitchen and deer wandering by at dusk