A very romantic and peaceful Umbrian hideaway just for two with delicious breakfasts and wonderful views from house and pool

Wooded, lakeside retreat for 1 or 2 – big windows, huge terrace, wood-burner, wide screen. The Jurassic coast a cross-country walk away

An ideal stopover at a handsome 1790 house on the edge of a small village surrounded by beautiful countryside and with friendly young owners

Lovely owners have created this quirky space on their farm; side-by-side al fresco baths make it romantic for two

The view is pure Canaletto, the vibe is modern and laid back. Just minutes from all Venice’s best bits, but with far fewer tourists

Attractive country barn - great for two families sharing, for river trips, for playing in the pool, for running free

Five beautiful suites in the south wing of this fairy tale castle, filled with architectural features, family history and much grandeur

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

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

A large tranquil apartment with garden and pool surrounded by Tuscan countryside, just over half an hour's drive from Siena

Be spoiled in this large stone house, with sumptuous bedrooms, thoughtful breakfasts and a verdant garden, just minutes from the city

Wild beauty and hundreds of birds on the shore of a freshwater lake. Frank and Daniella look after you in a homely, fuss free way

Come for pristine beaches, long walks to Barbate, sea views, whale watching trips and serene suites

Simple and rustic, this early 1700s farmhouse has warmth and charm, surrounded by countryside in the Perche

A super old place for those who love history and Thomas Hardy. Come for enjoyable gastropub food and comfortable, traditional bedrooms

Traditional accommodation and organic food; handy for Bari but set peacefully in the countryside near Toritto, famed for its almonds

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