Fringing Tuscany countryside and fun Montone, an authentic Umbrian mansion with Slow Food, lavender fields, apartments and pool. Pure Italy

A really friendly French family home, steeped in history and tradition with delicious home-grown food, a lovely garden and peaceful pool

A beautifully restored annexe in a picturesque village in the heart of Suffolk. Take a camera - it's seriously picture-perfect around here

Exposed beams and stone walls mix with modern art and minimalism to give a warm yet uncluttered luxury. Stylish yet relaxing

With incredible views across to distant hilltop towns, olive groves and buzzing bees, this elegant farmhouse has bags of charm

In a sleepy village near Oxford, a characterful 17th-century inn with contemporary flair, seasonal menus and a terrace for summer music

A bit like staying with friends in a smart country house, but not having to help - an elegant refuge near Bradford-on-Avon

A modern take on an Iron Age roundhouse with stunning sea views in Scotland’s wild west, perfect for couples

Stay a while... lulled by lapping sea and fragrant hanging gardens - cool, light, balconied, classic, intimate, unpretentious

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

An elegant hotel with wellness area, gym, gourmet restaurant, bar, bistro and 15 contemporary bedrooms decorated with Sicilian flair