Bags of character within and without at this four-storey village house with rooftop views over the mountains, next to a 12th-century church

Good food draws the crowds at this smart bar & restaurant with rooms in a quiet village sandwiched between Cornwall’s north and south coasts

In truffle, lavender and olive oil country, a dreamy wine château with terraced gardens, run by hosts whose happiness is infectious

Italian style marries Californian comfort, with views over hilltop towns, vineyards and the majestic Sibillini mountains beyond

Simple country cottage living on a working organic farm. Bring your hiking boots or bikes, stride out from the door

Unwind in glorious Northumberland with beaches, proper dunes, ancient castles and two cosy cottages with open fires, sea views and gardens

Strolling distance from the village of Seggiano, peace and beauty fill every corner of this ancient, view-filled retreat

Completely refurbished 18th-century roadside inn with special views, good food, restful bedrooms and all the benefits of Another Place

An hour from Edinburgh, this large estate wrapped in ancient woodland & steeped in history is a super outdoorsy retreat – dogs welcome too

In pretty Vernon, a peaceful and comfortably large townhouse with roses rambling around the door

In the heart of beautiful Siena, it's just like staying with a friend, as hostess Paola chats whilst preparing local produce for breakfast

Secluded place with home-grown food, much peace and walks by the river for a couple (or small family). Courses and solo retreats too

Big house in peaceful lush oasis among the bananas, vines and aloe vera, a 20-minute walk down into Funchal

Gaze out to the shimmering bay from your bird and nature-filled retreat in the tree-studded mountains near Alcúdia

Come to stay in a lovely old house surrounded by an important garden created by three generations of brilliant women gardeners

A 18th-century house with pool in a small town with friendly owners and a tropical garden of banana, fig and, of course, frangipani

Escape your cares here, move from terrace to terrace tracking the sun's progress and dive into the sea from your own swimming platform

A cottage for two on a wonderfully eco wine school and vineyard. Gaze at magnificent views from your terrace