Serious art, lovely lighting, great sound system and a fat wood-burner belting out the heat at this super place for families or friends

A sparkling house for two overlooking azure waters, starry skies and Stromboli’s light show - that’ll do nicely grazie

Traditional family-run hotel with sitting rooms galore, award-winning food and Snowdon views. High teas and games room for children too

A wisteria-laden pergola shades the sunny side of the farmhouse - in gentle olive country near the Sibillini Park, not far from the Adriatic

10 minutes from La Rochelle, a place of peace and style. From scrumptious breakfasts to a splash in the pool, your hosts are eager to please

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

Up at the top of Scotland’s west coast, a small, stylish and welcoming hotel with lovely owners and some nicely priced rooms

3 lovely cottages in the heart of Cognac vines for cosy nights by the fire and summer barbecues by the pool

Close to the honeypots of Domme and Sarlat, a hideaway for 2 in an ancient French hamlet. The apartment is serene, the views are glorious

An 18th-century chapel in the heart of the village with stone mullioned windows, bakery, wine shop and art gallery – a bustling hub

In a leafy, peaceful part of Frome - a very civilised bolthole for two. A big garden is yours to share, friendly owners live next door

Very private and comfortable rooms with their own entrances at this generous B&B with glorious gardens and views to the Black Mountains

A relaxed old countryside manor house with a huge garden to roam. It’s 2km to sandy beaches and Judith is close by if you need anything

A 200-year-old cortijo in a totally tranquil spot with gated pool, two acres of grounds, an orchard and olive terraces with mountain views

In a Valencian resort, a captivating and hospitable place - deal for groups of family or friends too, with independence plus B&B service

Up in the Cévennes, this big, beautiful family house has superb views, a fine kitchen, lots of space and masses to do and see

Traditional beamed cottage, tucked in the hills, with views to distant beaches plus colourful gardens and a pool

A small, stylish hotel lost in the country with beautiful rooms, excellent food, fine walking and a river passing directly outside