Come for huge skies, birds and wildlife, rare flora and fauna, precious pingo ponds and a comforting retreat from the hectic whirl

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

Inspiring art-filled Menorcan townhouse in Mahón’s old quarter; explore the city, cycle or hike the island’s gorges and feast on seafood

Off the beaten track and into the hills – this remote, unknown bird-filled region is faultless for outdoorsy people

A lovely, rambling old house for family gatherings with an extra cottage for bigger groups, a gorgeous garden and hilltop villages nearby

Where sea and woodland meet, an inspiring and beautiful haven with estuary views; a gourmet’s delight and Honfleur down the road

A wonderful place to stay whether you enjoy golf or not, with big skies, sea views, sumptuous bedrooms, delicious food and attentive staff

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

A truly authentic place to stay on a Sicilian working farm with roaming hens, wheat fields, wild flowers and a distant view of the sea

Historic old house in a beautiful, traditional village. Boulangerie, bar, crêperie all a stroll away

A light, bright Georgian townhouse in a residential street directly opposite the lovely Lido and restaurant, near Clifton Village

Escape to your own barn. Brimming with beams and natural colours - surrounded by peaceful lavender-filled gardens and corn fields

Cakes from the host & eggs from the hens. Bring a party, bring the dogs, and soak up the history from a very fine house in the Cotswolds

A very peaceful, family-run hotel on the shores of Lake Garda with rose and jasmine-scented gardens for summer dinners by candlelight

A really friendly French family home, steeped in history and tradition with delicious home-grown food, a lovely garden and peaceful pool

An unusual, quirky old building attached to a Georgian farmhouse with a little terrace area for super views over iconic Colmer's Hill

An Italian farmhouse with soothing views, a scented garden and a big swimming pool where you can unwind in peace and comfort

Such a special place, right on the historic Georgian quay – a cosy, friendly place with dogs, children and families welcome in all parts