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

A stone built 18th-century tower in a pretty valley dotted with fruit trees for quiet and relaxed days recuperating from life in the city

A fabulous old house filled with history, treasure and stories – now a colourful, larger-than-life hotel in the arty district of Belfast

An incredible living museum, dedicated to the history of Sicily and the arts. Stay in the main house or in a cottage in the fecund garden

High in Ávila's unspoilt nature is this stylish, eco-brilliant family hotel: mountains, massages, pool, organic dinners... a special escape

A perfectly renovated farmhouse in the grounds of a delightful château deep in the Normandy countryside, with a lovely walled garden

A big, beamed contemporary barn filled with light and surrounded by unspoilt countryside for a romantic retreat.

On a quiet road leading to the sea, this sleepy village pub has been sensitively restored. Enjoy good food, sleep in comfy bedrooms

An 18th-century townhouse restored with flair by former restauranteurs: come for colour, comfort and sublime dining

View-filled apartments in Ortigia, the heart of Siracusa. Immerse yourself in the blue of the Ionian Sea; walk to culture, shops and restaurants

In a Valencian resort, a captivating and hospitable place - deal for groups of family or friends too, with independence plus B&B service

A light, airy and comfortable barn conversion on a farm with stunning views over the Dorset/Devon border just five miles to the sea

Return to warming fires after hiking in Ireland's highest mountains. Two traditional cottages on the outskirts of pretty Killorglin

Traditional house with a contemporary and imaginative interior; stroll to shops and restaurants, jump in the car to explore Provence

This civilised bolthole offers a quiet retreat, castle views and the magic of Edinburgh on your doorstep

A delightful old Quinta within a Quinta. Find banana trees, vines and lots of greenery within a 20-minute walk of the centre of town

Inland Algarve, away from the crowds – this gorgeous house with pool and gardens is a haven for families and friends

A delightfully untouched and simple cottage and garden for old-fashioned family seaside holidays just a short walk to Mawgan Porth beach