If you think there’s a chance your car boot bargain might turn out to be a valuable antique, find out on a special holiday break featuring Antiques Roadshow expert, Eric Knowles.

The special ‘Antiques with Eric Knowles’ Experience Break is happening at warner Leisure Hotels’ magnificent Thoresby Hall Hotel & Spa, on the edge of the Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, on April 5th.

The TV presenter and author will join the four-night midweek holiday for two days when he will be available to give you a valuation on your treasures, answer your questions and present a talk about the fascinating world of antiques.

The break coincides with the Newark Antiques Fair, Europe’s biggest antiques and collectibles event where you can browse around as many as 4,000 stalls offering a huge variety of furniture, architectural pieces, porcelain, pottery, silver, jewellery, paintings, books, maps, prints, and toys. Transport to the Antiques Fair and the entrance cost are included in the price of the Experience Break.

Grade I listed Thoresby Hall is the perfect setting to be inspired by historic art and culture. Dating back to 1875, the beautiful stately house was designed by Anthony Salvin with gardens by Sir Humphrey Repton and parklands landscaped by Capability Brown. The extraordinary Great Hall which rises through three storeys is steeped in history, and legend has it that Robin Hood exchanged vows with Maid Marion in the nearby church of St Mary. During your stay the full story of the mansion will be brought to life by the Thoresby Players.

While the hotel may be historic, the quality of its four-star accommodation and level of service with superb facilities on site is of the highest contemporary standards. There are three outstanding restaurants to choose from and a wide range of leisure facilities including a leisure centre with swimming pool, sauna, steamroom, bubble pool and fitness room, plus a state-of-the-art spa and a full programme of evening entertainment.

Prices for an Ambassador Room start at £314 per person including three-course dinner, bed and hearty breakfast. There’s an £85pp supplement for the Antiques Experience with Eric Knowles. For more information visit www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk or ring 0800 1 388 399

The village of Gosforth, near England’s highest mountain (Scafell) and its deepest lake (Wastwater) is enticing holiday makers seeking a pie-fect experience that combines one of the country’s favourite dishes with a unique blend of other attractions.

The Gosforth Hall Inn first put a Supper Pie on its menu in January 2008. The Steak, Bacon and Mushroom pie, filled to the brim with local Lakeland steak slow-cooked for at least four hours, proved a huge hit and added to the village’s existing ‘lunch time pie’ offer from Gill Unsworth’s bakery.

The creator of the Supper Pie, Rod Davies, decided his inn should experiment with other pies. These were seen as perfect food choices into which walkers, cyclists, foodies and other visitors could tuck in after a fabulous day out enjoying ‘Britain’s Favourite View’ – Wastwater, just a few miles from Gosforth -and the stunning scenery all around.

Along with wife Barbara, Rod set about concocting delicious pie varieties for his Inn’s menu and now offers a rotating selection of pies, including Wild Boar with Wholegrain Mustard, Moroccan Lamb, Wild Game and Plum, Pulled Pork and Sweet Chilli, Venison and Haggis and Broccoli and Stilton.

All of these can be washed down with four real ales, at least three of which are always Cumbrian, served by an inn that was the 2008 runner-up in the CAMRA Pub of the Year awards.

Rod has new served up 4630 pies since the Supper Pie concept’s creation and attracts pie lovers from locations worldwide. The legendary pies turned out by the village are promoted by word-of-mouth recommendation, but Rod also operates a quirky Royal Ale Bus. This former Royal Mail vehicle is now sign-painted with the words “Up Hills, Down Dales, Rod’s Pies and Real Ales.”

Operating a mini-bus system to help pie lovers reach the village more easily, Rod is not only putting Pie Tourism on the map, but also keeping a pie-chart of his sales, which are escalating with each passing month.

The village’s success in attracting pie aficionados is assisted by a number of fabulous facts relating to the area. Whilst “Britain’s Favourite View” is a big draw, the village Churchyard also boasts the tallest ancient cross in England. This 14-foot high cross is carved with a mix of Christian and Viking symbols and depicts both the Crucifixion and the pagan God Loki.

This relic of the Viking era is joined in the Churchyard by Europe’s most northerly Cork Tree, planted in 1833, a listed-building tool-shed built of stones from the original Church and two 10th Century Hogback tombstones in St Mary’s Church itself.

Archaeological digs at the Gosforth Hall Inn have so far revealed a sunken Norse Hall (920 AD), and a Victorian path running through the grounds.

The Hall itself was built in 1658. A tight-fisted gentleman called Copley reputedly refused to pay the Royal Herald for his coat of arms, inventing his own instead (now hanging in the bar), and built the upper storeys from the timbers of ships wrecked on the Irish Sea coast.

There is no Room 8 – this being continuously sought by a ghostly monk frequently seen sitting by a Priest’s Hole in Room 11, which leads to the fireplace in the bar – an escape route used by the Catholic Copleys.

Pie lovers hungry for more than just fabulous food, are satisfying their appetites by feeding on the rich history of the Western Lake District. This includes Roman occupations at nearby Ravenglass and Hardknott, as well as Roman activity in the Eskdale Valley. This is explored by the Steam and Romans experiences organised by the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway.

There is also the legend of St Bega and early Christianity within the area, to add to the historical backdrop ,and visitors can also revel in the area’s unique traditions, such as the annual gurning Championships, staged in Egremont.

Others are building up the appetite by following one of the Gosforth Walks described by a book of that name.

Rod Davies says: “We really believe that, as a village, we have invented the concept of Pie Tourism here in Gosforth and are delighted that so many people are making a pie pilgrimage to reach us here.”

Western Lake District Tourism Director, Katie Read, says: “We have pie loving walkers and cyclists staying in Cyclists Welcome and Walkers Welcome accommodation like The Pennington hotel in Ravenglass. These visitors are expending their energy enjoying our rugged gems landscape and cool coast by day and heading to Gosforth to devour their choice of pie come supper time. It’s the perfect combination of food and travel and it’s very much thanks to Rod’s fabulous Supper Pie invention.”

More information about the Western Lake District can be found at www.western-lakedistrict.co.uk The Gosforth Hall Hotel website is at www.gosforthhallhotel.co.uk

Lakeside Coastal Village, one of thirteen warner Leisure Hotels, is offering the option to create your own Belgian chocolate egg. If previous Easter eggs have had too much box and not enough chocolate, this is your chance to make something that meets your eggspectations!

Lakeside, situated on Hayling Island offers ‘adult only’ leisure breaks in a range of Lodges and Chalets set amongst landscaped gardens overlooking the Solent – so you can avoid sharing your hand-made egg with any chocolatey-fingered children.

The ‘coastal village’ has a wide range of indoor and outdoor leisure options including tennis, pitch ‘n putt, swimming, indoor and outdoor bowling and a games room with full size snooker and darts.

Easter breaks, arriving on April 2nd, start at £194 per person for three nights including dinner and breakfast based on two people sharing a Standard chalet. The ‘Le Salon du Chocolat’ Experience is available at a supplement of £50. Click on www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk or call 0800 1 388 399.

warner Leisure Hotels have all sorts of Experiences available over Easter including Golf Clinics, Art for Pleasure and a cruise on the Norfolk Broads.

Thoresby Hall, near Sherwood Forest has the advantage of a fabulous spa with a range of state of the art warming and cooling experiences including Rhassoul mud-bathing and an ice cave. There’s a choice of restaurants, sport and leisure options and a regular entertainment package that includes music, live bands and a Late Lounge with dancing until the small hours.

Easter breaks, arriving on April 2nd, start at £284 per person for three nights including dinner and breakfast based on two people sharing an Ambassador Room. A Spa and Lunch package is £45. Click on www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk or call 0800 1 388 399.

Book an Easter break at Cricket St Thomas,near Chard in Somerset and take a walk through the glorious Somerset countryside – with a llama!

Grade II listed, Cricket St Thomas is a Regency mansion built in the 1820’s – Easter breaks are adult only and offer sports and leisure options as well as nightly entertainment.

Three nights from April 2nd cost £275 per person including dinner and breakfast based on two people sharing an Ambassador Room. Llama walking is an additional £50 per person. Click on www.warnerleisurehotels.co.uk or call 0800 1 388 399.

2nd March 2010

warner Leisure Hotels is part of Bourne Leisure Ltd who own Haven Holidays and Butlins Resorts and were awarded Best UK Operator 2009 by Travel Trade Gazette.

warner Leisure Hotels offer ‘adult only’ leisure breaks at seven country and six coastal locations and include three four star properties, listed historic buildings and coastal resort villages.

For additional information and high-res photos please contact Deborah McCabe on 01444 235 154 or email Deborah@aboutwords.co.uk

With our varied landscape, magnificent scenery and rich cultural heritage, a holiday at home in Britain offers so much more than just a ‘bucket and spade’ and holds plenty of surprises for those who have never tried it before. As well as vibrant cities, arresting coastlines and sandy beaches, the British countryside boasts outstanding natural beauty with its rolling valleys, mountains and hills. HomeAway Holiday-Rentals, the UK’s largest holiday rentals website, offers travellers a rare opportunity to rent some of the best of British homes.

So if you are looking for a truly unique holiday experience with family or friends, or fancy playing at Lord and Lady of the Manor for a week, take a look at the pick of the top 10 properties in the UK, featuring some of the most imposing mansions and country houses available to rent as a holiday home. Step back in time and discover luxury living in a 15th Century medieval house, or relax in your own 800 acre estate surrounded by delightful gardens.

However, it’s not only exceptional properties that are available to rent. There are currently over 6,000 private holiday homes in the UK listed on www.HomeAway.co.uk, from the Scottish Highlands to the Cornish Coast, providing accommodation for every type of holiday and budget.

Whether you’re looking for a typical beach break, an activity holiday, a spot of skiing or golf, or some serious pampering, there will be a holiday home to suit. The 6,000+ properties in the UK include:

• More than 3,000 holiday homes near the sea or a beach
• Around 50 on holiday ‘resorts’
• Thousands of properties in rural locations or villages
• Around 180 holiday homes ‘near the mountains’
• Over 280 ‘waterfront’ holiday homes
• More than 1,500 properties in city centres or towns
• 200 properties near skiing facilities
• Over 3,800 properties near golf facilities

View the Flickr photo album of our Top 10 Best of British

Prices quoted below are per property per week and correct at time of going to press.

The Top 10 ‘Best of British’ homes on HomeAway.co.uk

1. Baronial Loch side house set on the banks of the Loch, Scottish Highlands
7 Bedrooms, Sleeps 14. From £1,650 per week
This is a Scottish Baronial self catering house and was built in the grand style of 1892 and still retains all the Scottish character of the period, including pine panelling, delicate plaster cornices and magnificent turrets. Ardrhu luxury house is set just a few meters from the Loch and has uninterrupted panorama views of 3000ft high mountains. The house is set within 4 acres of mature landscaped grounds, with an all weather tennis court.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p86614

2. Stunning 19th century country house in Northumberland
2 Bedrooms, Sleeps 24. From £4,100 per week
Guyzance Hall is a beautiful gentleman’s residence surrounded by landscaped gardens and an 800 acre estate with breathtaking views. Tastefully refurbished, Guyzance Hall retains a timeless elegance but with modern luxuries. There are 12 bedrooms, all double or twin with en-suite or private bathrooms, individually decorated to the highest standards. The ground floor comprises the large drawing room with open fire and doors leading onto the lawn, intimate library, elegant wood panelled dining room and magnificent Edwardian ballroom with minstrels’ gallery. There is also a tennis court and indoor swimming pool on the estate.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p417412

3. 17th century manor house with spa, Oxfordshire Cotswolds
12 Bedrooms, Sleeps 32. From £6,000 per week
The 70 acre Cotswold country estate features an organic parkland, pasture and woodland and a gorgeous 17th century, Grade II listed manor house at its heart. The Old Manor House is exquisitely situated in its own land and is approached down a long, private, tree-lined driveway past a wildlife pond. The Old Manor House is very spacious and luxurious, full of charm and character and offers a spacious games room and a fantastic spa and hot tub beautifully set in a gazebo in the delightful formal garden.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p405572

4. Magnificent Grade II listed Medieval House, Suffolk
12 Bedrooms, Sleeps 24. £4,950 per week
A unique and exciting opportunity to exclusively hire a magnificent 15th century Grade II listed, Medieval House for your own personal use. The Old Neptune offers luxurious and spacious self catering accommodation in a spectacular setting. Steeped in history and painstakingly restored over recent times, the interior decor has been stylishly updated to complement the historic architecture.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p9479

5. Jacobean mansion overlooking the beautiful Gipping Valley, Suffolk
9 Bedrooms, Sleeps 21. From £2,097 per week
Set in mature and elevated grounds this imposing property will provide you with the perfect backdrop for a truly memorable holiday. Enjoy a banquet in style in your own private dining hall, a champagne reception in the grand drawing room with its incredible stone fireplace and French doors leading out onto the terrace and garden or just relax and unwind in the elegant living room. The interior displays many period features including studded wooden doors, original wood flooring and leaded windows alongside more modern conveniences.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p424509

6. English country estate with home cinema, Berkshire
5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 11. £2,600 per week
This is an English country house with plenty of indoor space for entertaining family and friends, set in 20 acres of estate land and glorious gardens with mature plants and trees. The property features five luxury bedrooms with countryside views from every window, a country style breakfast room open plan to kitchen, oak framed living room with views to the garden on three sides, log fire, magnificent dining room and home cinema with 14 reclining seats.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p418796

7. 11th century moated manor house in Surrey
7 Bedrooms, Sleeps 16. From £4,805 per week
This 11th Century moated manor house nestles on the edge of the Surrey Hills and provides the perfect mix of historic character and striking modern design. It also boasts over 1,000 years of history, including numerous Royal visits: King George V and Queen Mary used one of the bedrooms in 1913. The grand dining room features wood panels from the Spanish Armada and the ‘glass box’ conservatory/dining area is a striking addition to the kitchen. Other facilities include a forty foot indoor heated pool, sauna and tennis court.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p77651

8. Luxury modern barn in Cheddar & Bridgwater area
6 Bedrooms, Sleeps 12. From £1,695 per week
This recently renovated house sits in five acres in the Quantock Hills, England’s first designated area of outstanding natural beauty. There are six double bedrooms and three bathrooms, a fully fitted modern kitchen, a dining room that seats 12 and the main oak barn, which is flooded with natural light and has views across the hills and the stream that runs through the grounds.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p422533

9. Stunning stone built house set in superb gardens, Bude
5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 12. From £800 per week
A wonderful house, set in large and secluded gardens, in the quiet hamlet of Upton a few minutes from the centre of Bude town. Upton House is a fantastic house built from local Cornish stone and offers really superb accommodation for up to twelve. Original flagstone floors are to be found in the hallway, impressive kitchen and conservatory and there are a further two sitting rooms providing plenty of space for all.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p428923

10. Large village house in Canterbury, with pool
8 Bedrooms, Sleeps 16. From £2,250 per week
‘Maryland House’ is a substantial 1930s residence situated on the edge of a small village. Featuring fabulous contemporary interiors and an acre of family friendly landscaped gardens, Maryland House offers a quiet retreat to re-charge and spend time with loved ones. There is an outdoor pool, a children play area, lawn and gated driveway for the little ones to enjoy in safety, with a spectacular vaulted conservatory dining room for the adults.
www.homeaway.co.uk/p407086

The Yorkshire South Food Trail covers the key locations of the region, which includes Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham, Doncaster and parts of The Peak District National Park.

By no means exhaustive, the Food Trail offers a starting point to showcase the diverse foodie options available, sometimes unexpectedly, to visitors to the Yorkshire South region.

Sample gastro cuisine, Michelin starred menus, authentic family run restaurants, organic and locally grown produce from farmshops and delis. With cookery classes and themed dinner events running throughout the year, there’s no excuse not to join in!

Organically Yours

Adjacent to Sheffield Hallam University, the Butcher Works on Arundel Street is a 19th century Grade II listed building and former cutlery works. Recently transformed, it is now home to one of the city’s best kept secrets – Fusion Organic Café, which offers organic food in atmospheric, historical surroundings. Across in Barnsley , Glenroyd Organics are a husband and wife team that have created a fantastic range of organic products which can be purchased online or at food fayres across the region, including the regular Sheffield Farmer’s Market. In Hathersage, just west of Sheffield, The Walnut Club is a Michelin star-aspiring eatery on the edge of the Peak District and is one of the UK’s first strictly Organic Restaurants, where Head Chef John Oates sources wholesome organic food and offers a wide range of vegan and gluten free cuisine.

Fresh from the Farm

McCallums Farmshop in Doncaster is an impressive converted barn that makes a great stop off. Buy homegrown farm produce onsite or online, explore the three fishing lakes and quench your thirst at the onsite cafe. The award winning Cannon Hall Farm Shop offers a real farming experience for the whole family. Situated in the pretty village of Cawthorne in Barnsley, visitors can purchase fresh produce from the farm shop and delicatessen to take home, while kids of all ages can enjoy the adventure playground and farm experience. Still in Barnsley, the place for homebred free range meats is Broad Close Farm Shop which sells Tamworth Pork from free roaming woodland pigs, homebred, free range Dexter beef and lamb. Pick your Own Fruit at Eastfield Farm Shop in Tickhill where a wide range of home grown soft fruits are available to harvest during June & July, and homegrown vegetables are available year round.

Michelin Stars

For a special treat visit Tessa Bramley, the chef patron of Sheffield’s only Michelin restaurant The Old Vicarage in Ridgeway on the outskirts of Sheffield. Her seasonal menus use ingredients from the acres of gardens that surround this country house restaurant, with its stunning countryside views. On the edge of the Yorkshire South region, bordering the Chatsworth Estate in The Peak District stands the stunning manor house and private grounds of Fischer’s Baslow Hall. This renowned Michelin starred restaurant is rated for both its classical favourites and more adventurous dishes using the best of local produce.

Offbeat & Quirky Views to Dine For

Get away from it all and see the region from a different perspective, with some of the more unusual places to dine in Yorkshire South.

Combine food with travel and hop aboard A&G Passenger Boats. Their Cruise and Dine packages on the Sheffield & Tinsley Canal run through from the heart of the city and offer a unique perspective to enjoy a British menu. For a real blast, head for the quirky ambience of The Garrison Hotel Sheffield, situated in the Hillsborough Barracks. This Grade II listed building houses a former jail, guardhouse and ammunition building. With many buildings unchanged from the exterior, you can easily envisage troops parading whilst dining in the Jailhouse Bar and Restaurant or enjoy drinks al fresco the Outdoor Terrace. Sprotbrough, near Doncaster is home to The Boat Inn, a 17th Century pub serving quality food on the grassy banks of the River Don, next to Sprotbrough Lock. For true character, history, distinctive surroundings and some lovely riverside walks, look no further.

World Cuisine

Platillos Bar & Restaurant is all about little plates and big Mediterranean and Latin American flavours. Eating with abandon is encouraged and has earned this atmospheric restaurant in the heart of Sheffield ‘Best Tapas Menu’ award and ‘Restaurateurs Restaurant of the Year’ award in the local EatSheffield Food Awards 2009.
No trip to Sheffield would be complete without a taste of Nonna’s. Sheffield’s best loved Italian restaurant serves authentic Italian food, over 120 Italian wines with a Latin passion. It has been critically acclaimed, included in The Independent’s Top 10 places to eat Italian in the UK and named as one of the UK’s Best Restaurants in The Observer Food Monthly Awards 2008.

Doncaster offers some of the region’s most exciting and exotic cuisine. For an authentic taste of Nepal try Balrams Neplese Restaurant. The husband and wife team run a homely restaurant that delivers first class food and service with a smile. With no set sittings, they open when you arrive and close when you leave, and even offer kitchen tours and cookery lessons. For a taste of sunshine, try Doncaster’s first Caribbean restaurant. Banana Boat Caribbean Restaurant & Bar uses authentic ingredients to create traditional dishes such as ackee and salt fish, jerk pork and curried goat. Alternatively, try the Jinja Tree in Bawtry, an oriental infused restaurant, where your personal chef will cook you vegetables, fish or meat dishes on a hot griddle right before your very eyes.

Gastronomic Delights

Tucked away in the heart of Sheffield’s cultural quarter, Silversmiths Restaurant & Bar is housed in the former premises of George Ellis (Silversmiths) Ltd, a producer of silverware and cutlery. Diners can take in the city’s industrial past, with Sheffield made cutlery, artworks and exhibits, while sampling a simple yet stylish contemporary British menu. On the outskirts of the city in a suburb of Dore, lies Moran’s Restaurant & Wine Bar. Its modern European menu has attracted praise from some of the UK’s toughest food critics who have unearthed one of the city’s hidden culinary gems. The industrial heritage of Kelham Island is home to one of the city’s top dining hotspots, The Milestone. This chic gastropub raise their own free range rare breed pigs, offer cookery classes and cocktail evenings. It has recently been awarded a coveted Michelin recommendation, joining fellow Michelin acclaimed Sheffield eatery Artisan, a modern, bistro style restaurant. The stylish Leopold Square hosts The Wig & Pen in the heart of the city, where British recipes are reinvented with a contemporary twist and served in the relaxed Georgian dining room. Further afield is Nordest, Doncaster’s leading gastro restaurant. This former fish restaurant now serves traditional Anglo-Italian food with a modern feel.

A Taste of the Country

Famed for its traditional country inns, the region has become synonymous with real ale drinkers and is responding to the needs of visitors and changing tastes that want high quality fayre in countryside, ambient, historic settings. On the boundary between Barnsley and Sheffield, the former 18th century coaching inn, the Wortley Arms and Montagu’s Restaurant retains a real sense of history with period features including revolving doors, oak beams and open fires. The Spencer Arms is simply one of the region’s finest gastropubs, set in the delightful Pennine village of Cawthorne, Barnsley. The cosy pub atmosphere and bar full of real ales is complemented by an exciting new contemporary dining space. Traditional country cooking is celebrated at The Beaters Restaurant at The Dog and Partridge Inn, on the edge of the rugged northern Peak District, an ancient Inn with a history that can be traced back to the Elizabethan period. As CAMRA award winner, visitors can enjoy cosy log fires, stunning moorland and real ales. Iconic Sheffield pub, The Cricket Inn is located on the edge of the Peak District, with a feel of a great country pub only minutes from city life and is one of the most popular foodie haunts in the area.

Now we’re cooking!

Why not take home some of the region’s top fayre with a day of cooking? The Milestone in Kelham Island, Sheffield offers a range of cookery classes for all abilities. Learn the basics or enhance your skills, with themed classes on meat, fish, dinner party food and more. Or try your hand with a course at Coghlans Cookery School in the outskirts of Sheffield, from a Half Day Chocolate Team Building Day, to Foraging for Wild Foods.

For more information about the culinary delights of the South Yorkshire region, start your visit at www.yorkshiresouth.com/dine

If you would like to recommend somewhere to add to the Food Trail, then Yorkshire South Tourism would love to hear from you. Please send your suggestions to visitor@yorkshiresouth.com

The UK’s leading guided walking holidays’ operator, Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, is offering a two week holiday in the Cyclades Archipelago embracing the contrasting islands of Santorini and Naxos.

Santorini is a dramatic landscape with its sheer cliffs, dark sandy beaches and volcanic remnants, walks are taken along the rim of the ancient volcano, mountain ridges, picturesque villages and coastal paths.

By contrast, the island of Naxos is very different from its neighbour, with green, fertile valleys providing verdant scenic walks ending in languishing on one of the island’s idyllic sandy beaches.

Accommodation is in the three star Hotel Albatros on Santorini and the two-star Hotel Galini and Sofia Latina, located close to the sandy beach of St George on Naxos.

Price from £1069 per person includes, return flights, transfers, half board accommodation and the services of a tour leader.

The most romantic holiday homes to rent worldwide; from the UK to Bali

For the perfect romantic gift this Valentine’s Day, sweep your loved one off their feet and whisk them away to an idyllic, private holiday home, where you can relax and unwind in total seclusion, far away from the distractions of everyday life. On HomeAway Holiday-Rentals there is plenty of choice, from chic city apartments to beach-side retreats and to provide some inspiration we’ve created a collection of our favourite Top 10, featuring some of the most romantic holiday homes and destinations in the world.

For photos, visit our Flickr album here: www.flickr.com/photos/homeawayuk

On a romantic break the main priorities are privacy and a breathtaking setting, which are not always easy to find. Luxury hotels can be pricey and disappointing, but by booking a private holiday home direct it’s possible to find a unique, perfect love-nest that won’t break the bank. Sun, sea and sand lovers can find their own island paradise; chic city pads are a classic; or for hopeless romantics, perhaps a chateau suite, cosy cottage or chalet would suit. The Top 10 below provides a great range of destinations and romantic holiday homes that will appeal to every interest and budget.

With over 6,500 romantic 1-bedroom properties available to rent around the world on www.HomeAway.co.uk, you are guaranteed to find the ideal romantic retreat. Whatever makes you go weak at the knees, there will be a holiday rental that is the perfect match.

Prices quoted below are for February and correct at time of going to press.

The Top 10 Romantic Retreats on www.HomeAway.co.uk

ITALY

1) Gorgeous apartment with original features & large roof terrace, Venice

www.homeaway.co.uk/p63751. £1,532 per week / £225 per night (3-night min stay)

This is a light and airy apartment in a fabulous position, just behind the lovely and central Campo San Barnaba in Dorsoduro, five minutes walk from the Accademia Bridge. The apartment is on two floors (a duplex) and has been newly and carefully restored. It has original features, such as beamed ceilings and Venetian flooring, and offers romantic views of the Grand Canal from the wonderful, spacious terrace.

2) Stone cottage with open fire at the foot of the Sibillini Mountains, Macerata

www.homeaway.co.uk/p421239. £838 per week (1 week min stay)

This lovely little cottage is set in a peaceful nook amidst the superb scenery of the Sibilini Mountains and features a spacious living room with fireplace, ideal for romantic evenings. The property also offers a beautiful fenced garden which frames the wide swimming pool. The foliage of the climbing grape-vine under the bower creates a cool shaded space for outdoor meals. Relax together by the stream which laps the property, with the gentle sound of trickling water in the background, or take a leisurely stroll along its banks. In the evenings, you can share the telescope with your loved one to watch the stars.

FRANCE

3) Romantic cottage on Chateau estate in the Dordogne

www.homeaway.co.uk/p16795. £541 per week / £108 per night (2 night min stay)

La Maison de Marc is the detached farmhouse of an early 18th century Chartreuse manor house. Located in the centre of the Dordogne region, the estate of Le Maine extends for 67 acres of meadows and woods with many pathways, on the edge of the peaceful village of Cubjac. The south-facing farmhouse has recently been restored to a high standard, preserving most of the original features. All the ground floor rooms open onto a private flower garden and woods. Outside, on the terrace, there is outdoor dining furniture and a BBQ for delightful dinners under the old oak tree.

4) Beautifully restored boat moored in historic town on the Canal du Midi

www.homeaway.co.uk/p430621. £360 per week / £59 per night (2 night min stay)

The ‘Da Vinci’ boat, built of mahogany and teak, is permanently moored in the pretty port of Moissac, a small medieval town built along the banks of the river Tarn on the Canal du Midi. The main bedroom is at the front of the boat and has a full size double bed, en-suite shower and dressing table. Couples can enjoy the view of the port from the bar in the wheelhouse. The boat is a romantic setting for those wishing to explore the medieval town of Moissac with its Romanesque abbey and cloisters.

BALI

5) Lakeside villa on an eco-friendly resort in Begadul

www.homeaway.co.uk/p85226. £200 per week / £35 per night (3 night min stay)

This unique and well-appointed wooden villa is located on a small, eco-friendly resort in the Lake District of central Bali and has a unique position amid volcanoes and temples. Perfect for couples looking for an exotic and special place surrounded by nature to enjoy a healthy and relaxing break, with trekking, boating, jet-skiing, cycling and golf all available nearby. The property features lovely wood panelled bedrooms and a large terrace from where guests can enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery. The beaches of the north coast are also only a 45 minute drive away.

UK

6) Windmill near Alvechurch with stunning panoramic views

www.homeaway.co.uk/p437238. £150 per night (3 night min stay)

Surrounded by the rolling greenery of Worcestershire’s countryside and overlooking the small hamlet of Weatheroak, this former windmill provides unique and quirky accommodation for a romantic break. With a golf course and traditional country pub within walking distance and Shakespeare’s Stratford and other major attractions within a short drive, you will find plenty to do while you are here. The windmill itself is a Grade II listed building because of its historic interest and has recently been completely renovated and modernised to offer two bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen and a magnificent 360 degree viewing gallery on the top floor.

CANARY ISLANDS

7) The Orange Tree House, near Puntagorda village, La Palma

www.homeaway.co.uk/p405847. £468 per week

If your idea of heaven is peaceful tranquillity in natural surroundings, with comfort, luxury linens and quality fittings you will find it here. The Orange Tree House is a renovated Canaries house with vaulted wooden ceilings. In this detached two-storey retreat set in a private garden with fruit trees, terraces and sea views, relax, unwind, and enjoy the evening sunset when a million stars come out. The Orange Tree House can be whatever you want it to be, a relaxing private retreat away from the world or a base for hill walking and exploration.

MOROCCO

Traditional Moroccan apartment with private terrace in central Marrakech

www.homeaway.co.uk/p410603. £513 per week / £89-£95 per night (4 night min stay)

This large, luxurious apartment decorated in traditional Moroccan style benefits from an exceptional location in a quiet street in the area of Guéliz, making it an ideal starting point to visit the city. It is situated in a new, upmarket residence with a lift, entry phone and guard.

After long days of walking in the markets and Medinas of Marrakech, you can relax in the swimming pool situated only 50 metres from the residence or enjoy lovely cooked meals that can be provided for guests on request.

CYPRUS

9) A romantic top floor apartment with stunning sea views in Tala village, Paphos

www.homeaway.co.uk/p90298. £200 per week (1 week min stay)

This romantic top floor apartment is ideal for couples who want all the luxuries of a 5 star hotel, but total privacy. The views from the balcony are simply breathtaking and the apartment has access to a communal pool on this small, private complex. All luxuries have been supplied to enhance your holiday experience, even a picnic basket for days at the beach. The decor of the apartment is modern and stylish but with a feel of home from home.

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

10) Cosy studio nestled in the hills overlooking the Caribbean Sea

www.homeaway.co.uk/p404481. £419 per week / £66 per night (3 night min stay)

‘Stoneyhill’ is a self catering getaway with breathtaking views, situated on the West coast of Antigua where you can capture the most amazing sunsets along with the tranquil sounds of nature whispering through the tropical breeze. The property features a spacious living area leading into the balcony where you can sway in the hammock while enjoying the beautiful views.

The most romantic holiday homes to rent worldwide; from the UK to Bali

For the perfect romantic gift this Valentine’s Day, sweep your loved one off their feet and whisk them away to an idyllic, private holiday home, where you can relax and unwind in total seclusion, far away from the distractions of everyday life. On HomeAway Holiday-Rentals there is plenty of choice, from chic city apartments to beach-side retreats and to provide some inspiration we’ve created a collection of our favourite Top 10, featuring some of the most romantic holiday homes and destinations in the world.

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On a romantic break the main priorities are privacy and a breathtaking setting, which are not always easy to find. Luxury hotels can be pricey and disappointing, but by booking a private holiday home direct it’s possible to find a unique, perfect love-nest that won’t break the bank. Sun, sea and sand lovers can find their own island paradise; chic city pads are a classic; or for hopeless romantics, perhaps a chateau suite, cosy cottage or chalet would suit. The Top 10 below provides a great range of destinations and romantic holiday homes that will appeal to every interest and budget.

With over 6,500 romantic 1-bedroom properties available to rent around the world on www.HomeAway.co.uk, you are guaranteed to find the ideal romantic retreat. Whatever makes you go weak at the knees, there will be a holiday rental that is the perfect match.

Prices quoted below are for February and correct at time of going to press.

The Top 10 Romantic Retreats on www.HomeAway.co.uk

ITALY

1) Gorgeous apartment with original features & large roof terrace, Venice
www.homeaway.co.uk/p63751. £1,532 per week / £225 per night (3-night min stay)
This is a light and airy apartment in a fabulous position, just behind the lovely and central Campo San Barnaba in Dorsoduro, five minutes walk from the Accademia Bridge. The apartment is on two floors (a duplex) and has been newly and carefully restored. It has original features, such as beamed ceilings and Venetian flooring, and offers romantic views of the Grand Canal from the wonderful, spacious terrace.

2) Stone cottage with open fire at the foot of the Sibillini Mountains, Macerata
www.homeaway.co.uk/p421239. £838 per week (1 week min stay)
This lovely little cottage is set in a peaceful nook amidst the superb scenery of the Sibilini Mountains and features a spacious living room with fireplace, ideal for romantic evenings. The property also offers a beautiful fenced garden which frames the wide swimming pool. The foliage of the climbing grape-vine under the bower creates a cool shaded space for outdoor meals. Relax together by the stream which laps the property, with the gentle sound of trickling water in the background, or take a leisurely stroll along its banks. In the evenings, you can share the telescope with your loved one to watch the stars.

FRANCE

3) Romantic cottage on Chateau estate in the Dordogne
www.homeaway.co.uk/p16795. £541 per week / £108 per night (2 night min stay)
La Maison de Marc is the detached farmhouse of an early 18th century Chartreuse manor house. Located in the centre of the Dordogne region, the estate of Le Maine extends for 67 acres of meadows and woods with many pathways, on the edge of the peaceful village of Cubjac. The south-facing farmhouse has recently been restored to a high standard, preserving most of the original features. All the ground floor rooms open onto a private flower garden and woods. Outside, on the terrace, there is outdoor dining furniture and a BBQ for delightful dinners under the old oak tree.

4) Beautifully restored boat moored in historic town on the Canal du Midi
www.homeaway.co.uk/p430621. £360 per week / £59 per night (2 night min stay)
The ‘Da Vinci’ boat, built of mahogany and teak, is permanently moored in the pretty port of Moissac, a small medieval town built along the banks of the river Tarn on the Canal du Midi. The main bedroom is at the front of the boat and has a full size double bed, en-suite shower and dressing table. Couples can enjoy the view of the port from the bar in the wheelhouse. The boat is a romantic setting for those wishing to explore the medieval town of Moissac with its Romanesque abbey and cloisters.

BALI

5) Lakeside villa on an eco-friendly resort in Begadul
www.homeaway.co.uk/p85226. £200 per week / £35 per night (3 night min stay)
This unique and well-appointed wooden villa is located on a small, eco-friendly resort in the Lake District of central Bali and has a unique position amid volcanoes and temples. Perfect for couples looking for an exotic and special place surrounded by nature to enjoy a healthy and relaxing break, with trekking, boating, jet-skiing, cycling and golf all available nearby. The property features lovely wood panelled bedrooms and a large terrace from where guests can enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery. The beaches of the north coast are also only a 45 minute drive away.

UK

6) Windmill near Alvechurch with stunning panoramic views
www.homeaway.co.uk/p437238. £150 per night (3 night min stay)
Surrounded by the rolling greenery of Worcestershire’s countryside and overlooking the small hamlet of Weatheroak, this former windmill provides unique and quirky accommodation for a romantic break. With a golf course and traditional country pub within walking distance and Shakespeare’s Stratford and other major attractions within a short drive, you will find plenty to do while you are here. The windmill itself is a Grade II listed building because of its historic interest and has recently been completely renovated and modernised to offer two bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen and a magnificent 360 degree viewing gallery on the top floor.

CANARY ISLANDS

7) The Orange Tree House, near Puntagorda village, La Palma
www.homeaway.co.uk/p405847. £468 per week
If your idea of heaven is peaceful tranquillity in natural surroundings, with comfort, luxury linens and quality fittings you will find it here. The Orange Tree House is a renovated Canaries house with vaulted wooden ceilings. In this detached two-storey retreat set in a private garden with fruit trees, terraces and sea views, relax, unwind, and enjoy the evening sunset when a million stars come out. The Orange Tree House can be whatever you want it to be, a relaxing private retreat away from the world or a base for hill walking and exploration.

MOROCCO

Traditional Moroccan apartment with private terrace in central Marrakech
www.homeaway.co.uk/p410603. £513 per week / £89-£95 per night (4 night min stay)
This large, luxurious apartment decorated in traditional Moroccan style benefits from an exceptional location in a quiet street in the area of Guéliz, making it an ideal starting point to visit the city. It is situated in a new, upmarket residence with a lift, entry phone and guard. After long days of walking in the markets and Medinas of Marrakech, you can relax in the swimming pool situated only 50 metres from the residence or enjoy lovely cooked meals that can be provided for guests on request.

CYPRUS

9) A romantic top floor apartment with stunning sea views in Tala village, Paphos
www.homeaway.co.uk/p90298. £200 per week (1 week min stay)
This romantic top floor apartment is ideal for couples who want all the luxuries of a 5 star hotel, but total privacy. The views from the balcony are simply breathtaking and the apartment has access to a communal pool on this small, private complex. All luxuries have been supplied to enhance your holiday experience, even a picnic basket for days at the beach. The decor of the apartment is modern and stylish but with a feel of home from home.

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

10) Cosy studio nestled in the hills overlooking the Caribbean Sea
www.homeaway.co.uk/p404481. £419 per week / £66 per night (3 night min stay)
‘Stoneyhill’ is a self catering getaway with breathtaking views, situated on the West coast of Antigua where you can capture the most amazing sunsets along with the tranquil sounds of nature whispering through the tropical breeze. The property features a spacious living area leading into the balcony where you can sway in the hammock while enjoying the beautiful views.