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

Five tranquil apartments surrounded by Tuscan countryside just over half an hour's drive from Siena - hire them all for a group holiday

A botanical beauty deep in the Loire Valley, this elegant house has history and heart in abundance

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

A restful space with a pretty garden in a quiet Derbyshire village - the pub a short stroll away and Chatsworth near

Come for history, wildlife and a stunning garden estate with acres to roam. Bring children and dogs too. Fabulous

Lose yourselves in this picturesque castle, magical with its luxurious rooms and timeless atmosphere. Count and Countess are brilliant hosts

A marvellous spot overlooking Rutland Water for this 1760 former hunting lodge with good seasonal British food and very comfortable bedrooms

'Pinch me' views over Lake Como, a stony beach below, Varenna on your doorstep... these chic apartments are in an idyllic spot

Sun-dappled walks along the romantic avenues, big bedrooms, breakfasts inside or out, a laid-back atmosphere and great markets nearby

In the heart of arts and craft town Chipping Campden, a beautifully decorated 17th-century house with a celebrated restaurant downstairs

Superb views, scenic walks and a huge range of activities all within easy reach of this beautifully restored property

In a quaint village with a bakery, brasserie and shops, a handsome gîte with a wonderful pool and fashion museum

All the bleached beauty of the beach inside this comfortable cottage; a dining terrace with uplifting sea views and arching views of Kerry

Elegant house with sprawling gardens and space for family and friends, within walking distance of the coast

Come to discover the ancient history of Dornes in a spectacular riverside setting - one point of the famous 'Templar Triangle' of Portugal

A very pretty old converted cart shed at the end of a track on an organic farm, surrounded by wildlife, birds and animals in the fields

A lovely big house with huge riverside gardens and an easy-going charm – a 15-minute walk from bookish Hay-on-Wye