Just below the Tuscan town of Massa Marittima, an agriturismo loved by sporty types and families, with wonderful food on site

Great staff, beautiful design, a fine old building and sublime food make this 600-year-old inn a perfect escape all year round

An organic farm near coast, village and Etna – super for families, done in simple good taste. Laze in the hammock, visit the coast...

A comfy cottage for two in the quiet, leafy outskirts of Aix with easy access to the city and a kind, attentive owner nearby

A dear little gingerbread-style house in the prettiest part of the estate with your own pontoon and boat on the edge of a shimmering lake

Encircled by wild dales and rugged fells, this spoiling cottage cocoons you in countryside peace with the added fun of a sauna in the garden

A super Georgian cottage with its own private garden, very comfortable bedrooms and acres of bird-filled grounds to explore

Something to astound at every turn where the traditional and downright quirky collide to stunning effect. Friendly, flexible hosts too

Bring the family for a traditional Tuscan apartment holiday with a restaurant and pool on site, all surrounded by rippling green countryside

A gem of a château in the wilds of Limousin with kind and thoughtful owners who are thoroughly immersed in this tranquil area

A light, spacious house sitting on a nature reserve for very comfortable stays and magnificent birdwatching, walking, cycling, riding

Sweep along the gravel drive through lawns and specimen trees to this elegant manor house with 17th-century roots

Off-the-beaten track cottage promises peace and quiet, wild swimming and hikes in the hills. A world away from the urban jungle

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

Spacious rooms with lovely linen, plus top-notch food in a wonderful setting, this is the best A303 stopover for miles

Inspiring art-filled Menorcan townhouse in Mahón’s old quarter; explore the city, cycle or hike the island’s gorges and feast on seafood

A converted coach house and stables, now one long cottage with much space, a country house feel and your own walled garden