Three airy gîtes set in 300 acres of vineyard and gardens. A welcoming base for exploring the marvellous Minervois – 15km from Carcassonne

Great design along with much comfort and warmth an hour from Inverness airport, but a world away from the city and with stunning views

A historic Cornish farmhouse, sitting pretty in its own land at the side of a valley, with comfortable bedrooms and an independent feel

In a quiet, ancient country town – outdoor breakfasts and indoor style: trompe l’oeil decorations, frescoes, vaulted panelled ceilings

Tranquil stone house with a rustic feel, a large garden with a swimming pool and views of the French Riviera and out to sea

A red-brick cottage and Shepherd’s hut in a magical garden with a cookery school and views over the South Downs

Classic coaching inn in a bustling village offers restful rooms, real ales and the Cotswolds on your doorstep

Hike down secret paths and along the Suffolk coast before a superb lunch or supper at this friendly inn; sweet bedrooms too

An eco B&B (minus hair shirt) in the stunning Meon Valley surrounded by woodland and wildlife - a Sawday's Community Champion

Lovingly renovated farmhouse amid vines and sunflowers, deep in the Charente countryside - small pool in garden, beaches 45 minutes away.

Grand stone house set in tranquil parkland with a pool, potager and plenty of space for groups. Chickens and charm included

Deliciously comfortable, hospitable, boutique B&B - in a secluded village within easy reach of Reims and the vineyards of Champagne

Steeped in history and romance, with a great big sleigh bed and open fires, is this 14th-century defence tower above the river Tweed

A deliciously rural stone house with charmingly simple rustic-chic interiors and saline pool - an hour from Perugia

You're only a whisper away from history in this family-run château, where rose gardens, sumptuous bedrooms and generous breakfasts wait

João & Ana Luisa's stunning cottages superbly blend contemporary and traditional styles. Vineyards, beaches and restaurants are all close

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

Three comfortable, modern apartments with private terraces, a lovely garden to wander, a pool, a vineyard and views of rolling hills