A rural haven in a lovely garden with comfortable bedrooms, brilliant breakfasts and bikes for hire – explore the Parque Natural

A restored Grade II listed flint barn with roots in the 13th century, a serene lily pond and mesmerising views over the South Downs

A hop from St Mark’s Square, this long-standing hotel - a delightful family affair - could not be better placed for exploring Venice

Historic old house in a beautiful, traditional village. Boulangerie, bar, crêperie all a stroll away

The Gautiers have the finest sense of how to treat guests: dreamy bedrooms, fantastic food & the pool beneath the orange trees is a delight

A 17th-Century Irish castle on the water’s edge. Watch the yachts from your bedroom, join local wine nights, discover the rich history

Character and quirk in old and new design and furnishing – private terraces, a shared pool, great walking, cycling and wine-tasting

1820s cottage with long views, a lovely garden and generous extras. Alnwick is close and miles of white sandy beaches with dunes

Light-filled retreat full of character and vintage finds, with handmade touches and farm-fresh produce on your doorstep

Friendly pub in rural village near Cambridge with strong community feel, great local food, garden, snug room and fresh, pretty bedrooms

Artistic souls will like it here, and those who enjoy shared meals & getting to know other people in dramatic countryside; Arezzo is 40 km

Eco-friendly B&B overlooking Lake Como with marvellous mountain and lake views. Heaps of space, generous hosts, a menagerie of animals

Wend your way down steep paths to Durgan beach, explore the magic of Charles’s wonderful garden and feast on Caroline’s super breakfasts

Fall in love with this riverside village, lost in a valley in lower Normandy, and this sunny house for couples or families

An impressive limestone house on three levels created within the ruins of an ancient village with uninterrupted views of the Vézère valley

A delightful home-from-home village house with large gardens and walks from the door – perfect for families

A 200-year old townhouse on a charming cobbled street with stunning views from the terraces over rooftop Olhão and down to the sea

Charming cottage in the Peak District National Park for hill walking, cycling and bird watching, or simply unwinding amid much beauty