A flawlessly restored palazzo in the oldest part of town opposite an ancient monastery, with peaceful courtyard and a terrace with views

A converted Victorian schoolhouse with a glorious oak bar, an impressive selection of gins, hearty food and attractive bedrooms

Rare as a bird, a proper old fashioned French inn on the side of the road in a sleepy village, a restoration project for the new owners

B&B rooms, some with kitchenettes, in a lush garden setting with a river running behind. The pretty village is on your doorstep

Walk, ride, bike or canoe, climb a mountain, head for Hay, then return to a comfortable bar, warm bedrooms and delicious food

A beautiful walled historical country house, surrounded by acres of farmland and citrus groves, with wine tastings and kind, charming owners

Lovers will be happy here in their own sweet space with a bird-filled garden. All you will hear is the river flowing gently past you

Welcome to a dreamy fortified castle, once owned by French royalty, the perfect place to stay for history lovers and comfort seekers

A tucked-away and peaceful retreat from which to explore the beautiful Dordogne or simply to unwind and recharge

A magical medieval castello, gloriously gothic with tower, moat and ghost, fit for a Shakespearian play.

A 17th-century stone mansion within the ancient walls of Avignon. Walk to cafes, watch the shows at the Festival, chat with convivial hosts

Sitting at the end of the estate's private driveway, this sandstone building has grand Italianate columns and comfortable interiors

A rare treat to find such a comfortable and cosy, dog-friendly place in exceptionally wildlife-friendly and sustainably managed grounds

Rural peace just an hour from London in your own gorgeous converted hay barn, ten minutes from Alton

Feel like the lord or lady of the manor at this sublime restoration of a Tudor, timber-framed stone house in lovely Ludlow

Four stylish Andalusian retreats surrounded by olive groves and almond trees, and a restaurant for wonderful, seasonal food

A traditional country house experience with plenty of space for big family get-togethers, on a very old estate with fascinating gardens

A friendly, generous, big old house with not an ounce of pretension. Big families will adore gathering here to have fun and unwind