A hilltop setting for this ancient fortress with an illustrious past. You stay in apartments or farmhouses inside or outside the walls

Beautiful Noto is 4 miles from the Ionian Sea, and this creative renovation, with lush garden, stands above the throng. Heaven in Sicily

Lovely stone-built dog-friendly cottages with a pool in glorious, quiet surroundings near to lakes, mountains and wide sandy beaches

A light-filled, modern house with wonderful sea views through vast picture windows stretching all the way to St Kilda on clear days

Georgian country house with rustic charm and a home-from-home feel. In the heart of Wiltshire just outside historic town Bradford-on-Avon

A gorgeous eco-build set in a wildflower meadow a short walk from thriving Presteigne and with a shepherd’s hut for spillover

A dear little cottage with many comforts and a private garden, off the beaten track and surrounded by mountains, valleys and trees

A wonderful taste of Andalucian life here at these sweet farm cottages with long views. Walks radiate from the door, Granada is close

Come for summer breakfasts of pastries fresh from the local bakery, afternoons reading by the pool and long, lazy lunches

A renovated, comfy Victorian cottage behind a small village pub, a hub for the local community and with good food, ales and wine

Contemporary lodge on a remote peninsula with spectacular views; walk, cycle or kayak, explore nature reserves and unspoiled beaches

Stay just minutes from the sea in colourful Donaghadee for wild swims, island visits, bird watching and coastal walks

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 pool, pines, and hosts that give you figs from their garden! Stroll to a pizzeria through the olive groves, return to 2 lovely apartments

For walkers and lovers of wildly beautiful coastal country: two cosy old cottages and a bright, modern renovation in a cluster with others

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

Victorian almshouse with architectural pedigree, sweeping countryside views and easy access to charming local towns

A tranquil cabin for two in rural countryside near arty Totnes: there are walks from the door and all of Devon is yours to explore