A happy guest told us, ‘A marvellous way to see a beautiful château and this is probably the best that we have stayed in’

Two family-friendly gites (big groups can take both) with beautiful gardens, sparkling pool, activities for children and peace for parents

Beautiful views over Bantry Bay from this thoughtfully restored house with stylish rooms, gardens and woodland – a wonderful escape

Victorian almshouse with architectural pedigree, sweeping countryside views and easy access to charming local towns

5 minutes from the Vatican in a tall palazzo above the British school. Owners share local tips, serve bakery-fresh breakfasts on the terrace

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

Gorgeously restored villas with breathtaking views. Chill out on the terrace, sample the owner’s homemade wine, and the wood-fired pizza!

Ski in winter, walk and cycle in summer - return to unbeatable hospitality, warm, large and comfortable bedrooms with views, robust food

Come for one of the most beautiful villages in the Welland Valley and this charming hotel with peaceful, elegant rooms and lovely food

Thoughtful red brick barn conversion on a working farm. Peaceful, practical and within easy reach of outdoor activities

An exquisite, serene B&B with sweeping views, tucked between hills, vineyards and meadows and the ancient remains of a Benedictine abbey

A harmonious B&B in Chinon wine country. Home-cooked food, comfortable beds, easy conservations with your host and starry skies at night

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

Your own cottage on a wine estate in a very beautiful part of the South Downs, famed for world-class sparkling wines and good food

Drink a toast to your good fortune as you gaze across to Elba from a vast free-standing bath. You breakfast on the view-filled terrace

A very special place to stay, immersed in the architecture and history of the city as well as its traditions, culture, food and wine

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

A large tranquil apartment with garden and pool surrounded by Tuscan countryside, just over half an hour's drive from Siena