Hidden Gems

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

A warm and convivial place steeped in French history with an interesting, kind host who really looks after you. Under an hour from Paris too

A cosy, courteous, family-run hotel with ‘chocolatines’ and cherry jams at breakfast, Basque dishes at dinner, and gorgeous rolling views

Help yourself to the farm's strawberries and peaches, hop in the car to Colares, laze on the lovely terraces or simply gaze at the view

Come for a watery setting by the crystal clear canal (with canoe!) and an elegant house packed with interest, lovely art, much comfort

Rooms in an old palazzo in the historic centre of town, with a swimming pool, restaurant and café, and lovely beaches a short drive away

A compact eco-serene bolthole in bustling Modica's historic heart with glorious views over the baroque rooftops. Beaches are 20 minutes away

A pretty stone single-storey house, now renovated beautifully into a comfortable hideaway with wonderful views to woodland and river

You'll find comfortable rooms, great food and a lovely bar at this friendly inn – Heartbeat country, Castle Howard and Whitby all wait

A lovely old house and rambling garden in a medieval village with a monumental château, 12th-century church and a good local restaurant

Come for a spot of pampering and seriously good food at this smart townhouse B&B with spa, garden and pool in the heart of Abbeville

An ancient manor from the middle ages, built against a stone cliff with extensive terraced grounds, pool and parkland filled with wildlife

A handsome château filled with intrigue and interest on the edge of a Bastide town in Landes. Your charming host looks after you with aplomb

In the heart of a pretty village next to a picturesque stream, your elegant B&B is a haven of peace and quiet. La Rochelle is close

Good bolthole with two terraces offering spectacular views over the historic town, and restaurants and bars a short stroll

A charming nook for two in pretty Barrington village with a foodie pub mere steps away and Somerset at your feet

An incredible living museum, dedicated to the history of Sicily and the arts. Stay in the main house or in a cottage in the fecund garden

A friendly rural town pub with smart rooms, locally inspired menus and Cheshire and north Wales to explore – bring the dog too