If you want to come to Venice as an open-hearted traveller rather than a tourist then this is the place for you - just walk to everything

Between Florence and Siena, stay in one of five stylish apartments on a family-run agriturismo; they delight in sharing this slice of heaven

Imperious old coaching inn lost in deep country with a river to fish, five-mile views, delicious rooms and some very tasty food

Good looking barn conversion for sociable gatherings on an organic farm – meet the animals, take a day trip, go walking

A beautifully converted building, part of an old mill, now a gorgeous place to stay with the stream running through and shared parkland

A light, bright, art-filled space with private garden on a quiet residential street just a short walk from shops, markets and good food

Plenty of uncluttered easy space both in and out by the private pool - children love the freedom - great wine, food, and cycling country

Take in the stunning views, explore the narrow medieval lanes and soak up the old-world charm of one of France’s most beautiful villages

A traditional, grand 1850 townhouse sitting in a large, landscaped garden with mature trees, a short walk to the village centre and square

An old bakehouse, part of a farm gifted to The National Trust for Jersey with a beautiful walled garden filled with wildflowers in spring

A 18th-century house with pool in a small town with friendly owners and a tropical garden of banana, fig and, of course, frangipani

Rural retreat, far from the madding crowd. Laze by the infinity pool and take in the views. Inside all is calm and stylish. Stay a while

An architect-designed bolthole with two art galleries, a restaurant, studios and a paper mill by the seaside - a Sawday’s Community Champion

Old meets new seamlessly here: ancient stone, lofty beams, good comfort, wood-burner, Jacuzzi/spa and space to relax in the designer garden

A beautiful rural escape for couples or families with the delights of the Cotswolds all around. Dogs very welcome too

Gather the clans and just come. It's lovely here among acres of wildlife-filled grounds – a Sawday's Community Champion

Four family-friendly self-catering casitas and an original cortijo in wildlife-rich acres near the sandy Costa de la Luz

Enjoy views over the lake, eat good food in the restaurant, sleep in antique-filled bedrooms, have a proper rest