A rather grand, opulent house with warm owners, interesting furniture and art and some fine Renaissance architectural elements intact

Chic barn conversion with a swimming pool and country walks from the door; nearby Ventnor has a beach and great places to eat and drink

An absolutely charming former cart shed, with a magnificent view of the moated château and the park, with private sauna and shared pool

Refined B&B in a pretty forest setting just north of the French Basque country, with a lovely garden, a swimming pool and delicious food

Come to this delightful house, a marriage of old stones and modern furniture, for pure remote air, great outdoor sports and fine dining

A traditional coaching inn dating from the 18th century with good food served in private and public dining rooms on the Wellington Estate

Foodies and sociable souls will enjoy this lively B&B in a pretty honey-coloured stone cottage with a garden and a very friendly owner

Serious art, lovely lighting, great sound system and a fat wood-burner belting out the heat at this super place for families or friends

Step into a place full of life, colour, texture and clever design surrounded by beautiful gardens and lakes

Fringing Tuscany countryside and fun Montone, an authentic Umbrian mansion with Slow Food, lavender fields, apartments and pool. Pure Italy

Surrounded by its vineyards, a Tuscan villa for a memorable, stylish treat of a stay - a sophisticated décor and opulence at every turn

A light, spacious house sitting on a nature reserve for very comfortable stays and magnificent birdwatching, walking, cycling, riding

Tranquil couple's getaway with a shared pool, wonderful views, and lavender plants in every direction. The delightful owners are next door

A small top terrace can be booked for romantic evenings and you can lunch or dinner at the delightful floating restaurant

A rustic gem with a rich history, a domed chapel and a fountain in the courtyard. Dine superbly, choose from an extensive wine list

An off-grid retreat; embrace a slower pace of life at this peaceful, characterful home. Surf, cycle and walk then stargaze in utter peace

Deep in Calvados near vibrant Caen, a cider barn with stylish bedrooms, quirky objets, a bar in the salon. Charming hosts welcome families

A light and airy barn conversion, very comfortable and rural, sitting on a hill with views to the south overlooking the Stour valley