A pleasing (not very little) place to stay in the heart of a wood within the unspoilt countryside of the South Downs National Park

Charming 15th-century farmhouse near Montrésor and Loches with immense lawns, orchards and a fabulous pool

A fine country-house hotel with immaculate interiors and ambrosial food (dinner is included in the price). Coastal cliff walks wait

Glorious views across Northumberland countryside from this peaceful and comfortable cottage with almost an acre of garden

Wonderful views; fresh flowers on the table; books, maps, games: everything you need for a smashing holiday in a characterful farmhouse

Come for deep beds, real fires, Scottish breakfasts, a generous welcome, great walking, cycle tracks and grand lochside views

Bring friends and lounge by the pool in this vibrant, communal villa; modern art, ancient forts and restaurants galore are minutes away

Gem-like in a deep park among meadows, a family-friendly château with 2 stylish cottages. Join the lovely owners for dinner, dip in the pool

Serious art, lovely lighting, great sound system and a fat wood-burner belting out the heat at this super place for families or friends

Families can unwind at this lovely old higgledy-piggledy farmhouse in typical southern Algarve style, with a big pool and lush greenery

An 18th-century whitewashed cottage, characterful and comfortable and with a large private garden, just minutes from the coast by car

Awesome views of the Garfagnana mountains from this restored farmhouse high on a hill with a sparkling pool and wrap-around terrace

Ease into a slower way of life from this beautiful Tuscan farmhouse surrounded by vineyards in the valley below medieval Montepulciano

Eat in the sheltered, quirky, outdoor dining area, enjoy Madame's colourful garden in its village setting - ideal for those on a budget

Deep in the Wye Valley you’ll find wild swimming, kayaking and down-time. This cottage is a spacious yet cosy base for any adventure

Gite retreats in château grounds - welcoming and wonderful for young families. Build castles in the sandpit, make friends around the pool

Lots of attention to detail in this converted stone cottage means you have everything you need for a carefree, sun-worshipping holiday

Swing off the main road through the village, up into the hills along a narrow track and through a gate, observed by curious sheep