Elegant B&B tucked down a quiet alleyway close to St Mark’s Square, with friendly hosts and a rooftop offering spectacular views of the city

This is Somerset at its most quintessential: a thatched roofed, honey-coloured Hamstone cottage with a pretty courtyard garden; sleeps four

A sustainably-designed small, family-run eco hotel within a nature park by the sea in stunning Basque country. Great food too

The views are breathtaking over forest and field from this lovely barn conversion on a working farm, for special gatherings

Tranquillity and comfort in a guesthouse in the Marche countryside - airy rooms for couples with huge windows onto good views

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

Winter fires, a summer pool, and gorgeous food all year round... Live slow in the hills of

Charming, simple and elegant B&B with a lovely garden and kind owners in an area renowned for its good wine and food

A charming base in historic Beaulieu - expect delicious food, traditional country-house interiors, and walks that start from the front door

A surprisingly roomy interior for this pretty chocolate-box cottage in the middle of the village, just a ten-minute walk from Lulworth Cove

An unbeatable position on Rutland Water, a Michelin star in the restaurant, a roaring fire in the bar and a swimming pool in the garden

A Georgian townhouse full of character for an epic family and friend get-together. The best of Hay is a stroll away

Perthshire country house with contemporary touches. Deer, red squirrels, tawny owls... and the river Tay glints way below through the trees

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

Stables turned into bright, comfortable holiday homes in countryside near Battle - for couples and families, whose dogs are very welcome too

An idyllic cottage for animal lovers, children, peace seekers and walkers. Immaculate interiors and breathtaking views soothe the soul

A striking 200-year-old coaching inn in a sleepy village with a classic, traditional pub feel, superb food and wines, pretty bedrooms