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

Italian style marries Californian comfort, with views over hilltop towns, vineyards and the majestic Sibillini mountains beyond

Inside, a grand cathedral ceiling, outside, wisteria-covered terrace and pretty pool. Atlantic sands, Cognac and La Rochelle are in reach

Come for good architecture, thoughtful design and much space for relaxing: swimming, massages, hammam and sauna, beautiful bedrooms

Between mountains and coast: come for peace and serenity at this small hotel framed by fragrant gardens and the mighty Sierra Nevada peaks

Lose yourselves in this picturesque castle, magical with its luxurious rooms and timeless atmosphere. Count and Countess are brilliant hosts

An impressive limestone house on three levels created within the ruins of an ancient village with uninterrupted views of the Vézère valley

Romantics will love this small converted hut-on-a-hillside surrounded by pines and olives with stunning views over the old town and the sea

Fall in love with this riverside village, lost in a valley in lower Normandy, and this sunny house for couples or families

Unspoilt Coverack has all you need for a fun beach holiday and this terraced fisherman's cottage on the coast path is cosy all year round

Head inland for grand walking or to the glorious coast from this very pretty cottage with a private garden, suitable and safe for dogs

Great staff, beautiful design, a fine old building and sublime food make this 600-year-old inn a perfect escape all year round

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

Near vibrant market towns, this lovely cottage on a rural estate with views of Pen y Fan is a delicious escape from the hurly burly

Citrus scents the air, loungers flank a spakling pool. Light, cool, simple rooms, vibrant hosts, garden and olive groves - divine food

A delightful coastal house with lush courtyard gardens, masses of space, home office and terraces galore

Traditional beamed cottage, tucked in the hills, with views to distant beaches plus colourful gardens and a pool

Tucked at the bottom of a long track and surrounded by a gorgeous natural landscape, is this generous end-slice of a 17th-century stone farm