An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

Spacious bedrooms, friendly hosts and a classic English country house in a peaceful hamlet with walks from the doorstep

Refined palazzo with a rooftop terrace near the historic centre of Ostuni. The Valle d’Itria region and the coast is on your doorstep

A beautifully renovated traditional manor house with extensive gardens and orchard, a pool with a deck in a meadow and a terrace for dining

A lovely little bolthole to return to after days out exploring pretty Cotswold villages and walking in an AONB straight from the door

Brilliant birdwatching, heavenly countryside, a generous welcome and lovely furnishings... A place to linger as long as you can

A spiritual, rustic retreat for nature-lovers, writers, artists. In protected woodland, well away from bustle, close to the lapping river

Three comfortable stone houses clustered around the owners' home. Glorious views spread out below you across rolling countryside

At the heart of fascinating Palermo, splendid aristocratic hosts welcome you to their historic family mansion filled with heirlooms

A lovely old house, remote, peaceful. Nature lovers and birdwatchers will relish staying in one of the most biodiverse areas in Europe

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

A contemporary rooftop room in a warmly civilised B&B filled with books and lovely things – stunning view too

A country idyll in the hills. Only 15 mins from Faro, but all is peaceful: dip in the pool, sip a cocktail in the shade, book in for dinner

A harmonious B&B in Chinon wine country. Home-cooked food, comfortable beds, easy conservations with your host and starry skies at night

Delightful hamlet of beautifully restored cottages with a pool, surrounded by fields, forest and deer. The perfect spot for a digital detox

A small, trendy hotel, very much of its time, with oodles of style, stunning bedrooms and fantastic staff

For lovers of tranquillity and simple pleasures with a private pool, tennis court, stunning views and forty acres to explore

Quirky art hotel in the heart of trendy Brighton – there's a great bar, stylish rooms and wonderful breakfasts