Two lovely cottages, packed with atmosphere, character and comfort in a magical timeless valley surrounded by nature

Comfortable, traditional, accessible and in the grounds of an old rectory with meadows and the river Frome nearby for summer dips

Feel at ease in a lovely old townhouse filled with pictures and personality and including a separate loft apartment

A delightful coastal house with lush courtyard gardens, masses of space, home office and terraces galore

Family-run B&B in traditional trulli with hands-on hosts. Swim in the pool, explore the countryside, the coast is half an hour’s drive away

Family-friendly B&B above the medieval hill village of Bargemon, with soothing minimalist interiors, a large garden and a swimming pool

Come to recharge in the lovely Loire valley at this fine château surrounded by mature gardens and green countryside

A spiritual, rustic retreat for nature-lovers, writers, artists. In protected woodland, well away from bustle, close to the lapping river

Two cottages for couples: one more traditional, the other fresh and modern, both comfortable and romantic and there's a good pub next door

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

Leave crowds behind for this charming stone farmhouse in the olive groves of rural Umbria – bring friends and have it all to yourselves

17th-century farmhouse full of colour and interest with friendly hosts and great breakfasts. Explore the Cotswolds - bring the dog too

A Victorian house on a 5000 acre estate, snazzily renovated and tucked down a track with a private lake, in the quieter part of Cumbria

You have complete independence in your own wing beside the owner's house, with much space, a sparkling pool and balconies with views

Family-run B&B in an authentic and informal home. Stay for delicious dinners, walk along the river, explore Umbria’s heritage

An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

Four gîtes in the château’s vast barn, one in the tower. Magnificent mountain and valley views, and Sandrine’s regionally inspired meals

An L-shaped former farmhouse is now a gorgeous place to stay, just half an hour from the sea or the mountains and near interesting villages