A light-filled B&B packed with family memories and heirlooms in a small hamlet tucked into the foothills of the Dolomites

A grand yet very homely place with tasty home cooking and 200 acres to explore. Play golf, sail, cycle – wonderfully informal

A cosy, beautifully refurbished flat in a Georgian house bang in the middle of the unspoilt town with its pretty streets and houses

Immerse yourself in nature, wildlife, sustainability and slow food high up on the edge of a National Park

High ceilings and exposed stone walls give a light, bright and rustic feel to this restored barn with fabulous views over a lush valley

Fabulous bakes and hot waffles at breakfast, green fields all around and Normandy steeped in history. Great for foodies and historians

A gem of a house in a lovely unspoilt village with an intelligent, interesting owner who gives you delicious food and local wines

The farm is up its own track with wake-up Cheviot views over pine forests and fields of sheep. Luxurious bedrooms, large airy living space

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

A small, family-run boutique hotel sitting right at the foot of Etna with wonderful views, garden, pool and ambrosial Sicilian breakfasts

A dear little cottage with many comforts and a private garden, off the beaten track and surrounded by mountains, valleys and trees

On top of sand dunes, this bright and airy cottage has glorious views, walks are lovely and you can bring your dog

A beguiling retreat for a couple or a family of four – feel cosy and secluded in a thatched cottage close to the coast

An oh-so-special B&B in Palermo's ancient heart. This city at the edge of Europe, with its Arab-Norman-Byzantine heritage, is fascinating

By a lake, enclosed by woodland - a contemporary house and barn, full of handmade furniture – laze in a hammock, walk the Jurassic Coast

Climb Snowdon - or take the train. Swim, cycle, visit Nat Trust houses. A deliciously quirky retreat for 2 (and babe-in-arms) near Anglesey

Simple and rustic, this early 1700s farmhouse has warmth and charm, surrounded by countryside in the Perche

Tradition and comfort on the border with Wales, a welcoming country-house hotel with warm rooms, pretty gardens and delicious food