Proper village pub with much-praised food and cosy rooms; country walks lead from the door and Oxford is half an hour away

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

Quirky, rustic cabin nuzzled by vines and greenery – perfect for lovers, writers and peace-seekers. Take long walks, stroll to the pub

Warm hospitable agriturismo for foodies, designers, wine enthusiasts and all who love the 'real' Sicily. A happy place for families, too

Family-run B&B in traditional trulli with hands-on hosts. Swim in the pool, explore the countryside, the coast is half an hour’s drive away

A delightful mix of old and new in a conservation village with a four-acre garden that attracts all the local birds. Guests love it here

Cosy and comfortable eco cottages near to sleepy Sidmouth, where grown-ups can relax and children can play safely in the gardens

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

Rooms in an old palazzo in the historic centre of town, with a swimming pool, restaurant and café, and lovely beaches a short drive away

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

High up and with splendid views of the estuary and harbour, this roomy apartment is a very comfortable base for seaside holidays

A neat, recently restored townhouse inside Panicale's medieval walls with plenty of space and everything within walking distance

A beautifully converted dairy with a magical garden in a quiet village surrounded by lovely countryside

A gorgeously tranquil place to escape to and fall in love with the Périgord's medieval villages, valleys, wines, markets and artisan farms

An irresistible eco restaurant-hotel of character and charm, run by two friendly families and set in gorgeous grounds. Foodie heaven

Enjoy views of the South Downs from this converted milking parlour for 2 or 4 - fill up on the breakfast hamper and head out on long walks

High in the heavenly hills is this very smartly converted farm building, with underfloor heating, much glass, wood and exposed brickwork

Sumptuous rooms with Renaissance-inspired art, infinity pool and gardens, just a short drive to Mantua’s historic city centre