A charming hotel in a quiet neighbourhood in medieval Bologna, just the ticket for a city escape filled with food, history and culture

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

Return to warming fires after hiking in Ireland's highest mountains. Two traditional cottages on the outskirts of pretty Killorglin

A small, delightful hotel, perched on a high hill within a 14th-century convent with stunning views, garden and pool - very special indeed

Coffee served in silver cups & cakes are homemade in this duke’s palace, a throwback to the Moorish kingdom - a Sawday's Community Champion

Fun, playful space for a couple (+ 2 kids) with a semaphore code to crack, shared terrace & rainbow bathroom - a Sawday's Community Champion

Glorious views across Northumberland countryside from this peaceful and comfortable cottage with almost an acre of garden

Stay a while... lulled by lapping sea and fragrant hanging gardens - cool, light, balconied, classic, intimate, unpretentious

Escape your cares here, move from terrace to terrace tracking the sun's progress and dive into the sea from your own swimming platform

An 18th-century listed cottage in a pretty terrace with a private courtyard garden and pond, just a short walk from the high street

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

Come for an authentic French village experience in this old stone house next to the church with glorious countryside for walks and cycles

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

Warm interiors, pretty bedrooms and excellent breakfasts – good value in a very handy central spot

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

A honey-hued stone farmhouse or a stylish cottage – both are deep in delicious countryside with lovely walks by the rambling river

5 minutes from the Vatican in a tall palazzo above the British school. Owners share local tips, serve bakery-fresh breakfasts on the terrace

Historic, eco-friendly elegance, views over Etna and Naxos Bay, jasmine-scented gardens... and a charming family feel. Stroll into Taormina