An 18th-century cottage for four on a working sheep farm: walk the Pentland Hills, get the bus to Edinburgh for culture

A lovely house set in 20 hectares with a park, two ponds, paths winding through and a pretty river. Delicious locally-sourced meals too

Round up family and friends and head for the glorious South Hams and this eco-friendly barn conversion for ten with extra cottage

A thoughtfully renovated old cognac distillery with a pot-filled terrace, outdoor kitchen, lovely pool and plenty of different seating areas

Bags of rustic charm in this elegantly restored retreat, perfectly placed to explore Sicily’s rich history and beautiful beaches

A small, quirky country house hotel with lovely staff, pretty rooms and heavenly food served in a pillared dining room

A traditional Gascon stone chateau with a square tower at each end, a roomy salon, summer kitchen, gorgeous terrace and gardens

Historic, indulgent, atmospheric – and the Contessa is so warm. Vineyards, restaurants, operas, walks...La dolce vita on Slovenia's border

An 18th-century listed cottage in a pretty terrace with a private courtyard garden and pond, just a short walk from the high street

From the beautiful and artistic interiors to magical summer evenings on the terrace, you will feel thrilled to be here. Dreamy views too...

The holiday starts on the bumpy track along to this Arts & Crafts style modern house with plenty of space and a wrap-around garden

Deep French countryside, fine hospitality from true nature lovers, fantastic bedrooms and delicious dinners in an outbuilding

Three gîtes in the Dordogne with panoramic countryside views and a swimming pool – book individually or together for a group holiday

A sustainably run 1902 farmhouse and its converted cattle shed in countryside close to a wonderfully wild stretch of the North Devon coast

Once a pub, now a friendly home, with all you need for a market town break. Park the car (or leave at home) – everything is on the doorstep

Magical for nature lovers, with wraparound views to the coastline of Skye. Inside: warmth, luxury and not a whisper from the wildest gale

Come for big, peaceful bedrooms with views, delicious home cooked breakfasts and riverside strolls through ancient beech woodland

A lovely old cottage with sunny conservatory sitting in wonderful gardens at Euridge, a magical place with 450 acres of private grounds