In the Welsh Marches, down winding lanes, a delightful refurbished hop pickers' house - romantic bolthole for 2. Friendly owners, too

Come for summer breakfasts of pastries fresh from the local bakery, afternoons reading by the pool and long, lazy lunches

Wild beauty and hundreds of birds on the shore of a freshwater lake. Frank and Daniella look after you in a homely, fuss free way

Historic, eco-friendly elegance, views over Etna and Naxos Bay, jasmine-scented gardens... and a charming family feel. Stroll into Taormina

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

Two elegantly renovated spaces with wonderful views, lots of activities and large gardens for making memories with family and friends

Thoughtful red brick barn conversion on a working farm. Peaceful, practical and within easy reach of outdoor activities

An ancient thatched cottage near Dartmoor with a warming log fire in winter and flowers inside and out in the summer

Bright and spacious barn for two and a baby on the South Downs Way, close to Brighton and the coast

A seamless blend of ancient and modern in this architect-designed villa with infinity pool and veranda for admiring the wonderful views

5 minutes from the Vatican in a tall palazzo above the British school. Owners share local tips, serve bakery-fresh breakfasts on the terrace

Rooftop views of a Baroque town from heavenly flower-filled terraces and a truly scrumptious breakfast from Elisabetta make this one a must

Comfortable redbrick cottage with views on the Heydon Hall estate. It’s delightfully rural, yet close to Reepham for pubs and shops

The wow factor is set to eleven at this magnificent château steeped in French history and surrounded by acres of land (and a moat)

Rustic charm meets modern comfort in peaceful Devon hideaway set in acres of wild meadows and ancient orchards, with glorious swimming pool

A small hotel with gorgeous interiors, friendly staff, spacious rooms, a proper library, pretty garden and a relaxed, homely feel

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