A magnificent medieval tower in the grounds of an 18th-century château sitting in a dreamy valley. Come for superb gardens and architecture

A perfect spot with views of rolling hills, sunflowers and vineyards. Enthusiastic hosts and heaps to do here - watch wildlife, bake, swim

Ensconce yourselves in the Black Périgord and stay in the East Wing of a 16th-century castle with private garden and surrounding parkland

A sturdy, spacious house with stunning views over the garden and ocean, originally built in the 1800s as one of a row of Coastguard cottages

Beauty, charm and tranquillity an hour from Florence, on a bio-sensitive farm known for Chianina cattle and white truffles

Feel like the lord or lady of the manor at this sublime restoration of a Tudor, timber-framed stone house in lovely Ludlow

Spacious rooms with lovely linen, plus top-notch food in a wonderful setting, this is the best A303 stopover for miles

A truly special barn conversion, flooded with light and with its own decked outdoor space surrounded by bucolic countryside

Medieval manor house and busy farm. A welcoming atmosphere, big bedrooms, breakfast in the baronial great hall by the cosy log fire

You have the whole North Wing of this beautiful old farmhouse with a private east-facing courtyard for early morning tea as the sun rises

A warm and convivial place steeped in French history with an interesting, kind host who really looks after you. Under an hour from Paris too

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

Bags of character within and without at this four-storey village house with rooftop views over the mountains, next to a 12th-century church

Spacious farmhouse with annexe, great for gatherings with family and friends. Fabulous walks and endless views over the Eglwysbach valley

A very special place to stay, immersed in the architecture and history of the city as well as its traditions, culture, food and wine

A beautifully restored cottage and extra wing for 3 - 4 on Bodmin Moor for families, outdoor types and lovers of real countryside – dogs can come too

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

Bask in the beautiful Basque country at this friendly B&B in the village, with family-run restaurant for delicious suppers