The Dordogne flows through the gastronomic heart of France, where stunning villages cling to rock faces and historic riches are in store

A great find if you want to be close to all the action but nicely tucked away. Friendly pub downstairs, cool bedrooms up, Soho 20 minutes

Gardeners will be very happy staying in this generous, comfortable B&B surrounded by stunning gardens with year-round interest

An exquisitely restored 1850s townhouse, steeped in history, with a sweet garden and within walking distance of the historic centre of Porto

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

Achingly trendy, a design-lover's dream with infinity pool, wine on the terrace, pampering spa and a sunny bay at your feet – stunning

Enjoy southern life in a charming palazzo in Trapani. Come for coastal drives and baroque basilica, hand-twirled pasta and fresh calamari

A cottage for two on a wonderfully eco wine school and vineyard. Gaze at magnificent views from your terrace

A Georgian manor house in the old quarter of Penzance, close to the water, with good food and a chilled vibe

Nature lovers will be tempted to this gem of a village cottage in the Duddon Valley – a truly peaceful slice of the Lakes

Like staying in a family home, only with Henri III furniture and rolling green views. Energetic hosts cook, farm, hunt, chat over champagne

An idyllic cottage for animal lovers, children, peace seekers and walkers. Immaculate interiors and breathtaking views soothe the soul

Chatty Madame is a superb cook, and her pretty house and garden in a quiet Yvelines village are equally delicious. Zip to Paris by train

A classic period property right on the river, perfectly placed to explore the delights of nearby Marlborough

A grand yet very homely place with tasty home cooking and 200 acres to explore. Play golf, sail, cycle – wonderfully informal

A surprisingly roomy interior for this pretty chocolate-box cottage in the middle of the village, just a ten-minute walk from Lulworth Cove

A gem of a house in a lovely unspoilt village with an intelligent, interesting owner who gives you delicious food and local wines

This cottage is stylish and serene, beautifully transformed from an old farm building – come for golf, beaches, walks and bird-watching