Three family friendly gites with a contemporary feel, a saltwater pool, national trails to wander and wellness retreats on offer

A small, family-run boutique hotel sitting right at the foot of Etna with wonderful views, garden, pool and ambrosial Sicilian breakfasts

In deep countryside, an expertly renovated 15th-century chapel on the banks of the Lot – a serene spot near vibrant towns

Fine linens, cool pool and a barbecue for this soothing barn renovation in a dreamy corner of Tuscany. Friendly owners can cook on request

An impressive, south-facing bastide on three floors with a sunny pool, lovely garden and grounds that stretch to vineyards and garrigue

Live like a local. Art lovers, book lovers and walkers will be happy here above an art gallery in the centre of town

A true gem - sleep in a small hillside castle, share delicious communal meals, walk or cycle to the beautiful waterfalls nearby

A striking modern villa tucked away off a small road above the Serchio valley with sparkling pool, gardens and Apuan mountain views

Tucked away from the busy glamour of the Riviera, come and unwind, from two to twelve people, in a peaceful garden and stone farmhouse

Beautiful light-filled eco-homes in Loch Lomond National Park – Scotland’s treasures are easily reached from here

The smallest of three secluded cottages that share a gravel courtyard and a beautiful garden with cathedral views

Come for dreamy river views, a lovely garden and this bolthole for two, beautifully renovated inside and out and with a private hot tub

1820s cottage with long views, a lovely garden and generous extras. Alnwick is close and miles of white sandy beaches with dunes

In an leafy quarter of central Milan, 2 inviting apartments run by generous Jane. Perfect for families and romancers

A delightful home-from-home village house with large gardens and walks from the door – perfect for families

Rooms with rooftop and mountain views, luxurious in their simplicity, heavenly breakfasts out on the terrace, and a cultured, caring owner

A renovated bright apartment with lots of space, a hop, skip and jump away from the shingle beach of seaside-jolly Deal

An historic, moated manor house dating from the 16th-century, fully restored and with all mod cons, including an indoor heated pool