Traditional B&B in a beautiful château bursting with history and surrounded by formal gardens, then farmland and two fine rivers

An ancient farmstead in the Lombard style with up-to-date B&B rooms plus a garden, lake and museum all surrounded by quiet countryside

Vistas of olive groves, village life and the sea; gaze and daydream from this beautiful spot. A Michelin recommended restaurant to boot

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

Peaceful escape for couples in the grounds of a stately Tudor manor house; watch the wildlife from your garden, explore the nearby coast

This famous old country house might not come cheap, but where else can you splash out in such decadent style for life’s big celebrations?

A quirky, colourful house with views to the Aveyron river, green forests and stunning cliffs across the valley. A short stroll into town

Come for glorious walking countryside and warm fuss-free Sally, who gives you freshly baked scones when you arrive and beautiful bedrooms

In pretty Vernon, a peaceful and comfortably large townhouse with roses rambling around the door

Stylish seaside inn with stunning salt marsh views from a decked terrace, delicious food, wine and ales and sea-breezy modern bedrooms

Serene retreat in the French countryside with elegant interiors and impeccable hosting from the lovely Anne-Laure

A 1980s Catalan mas built in a traditional style, with garden and pool, surrounded by olive trees and vineyards near the Spanish border

A 1750 one-storey former farm building, beautifully converted into a lovely hideaway for walkers, nature lovers and peace seekers

Hideaway at the bottom of the garden with a little courtyard and far-reaching views; walk to the village pub or take a day trip to Bath

A stylish, refined 17th-century house off a quiet street with its own garden and lots of generous surprises, a short hop to everything

Comfortable bolthole for 2–6 in the heart of the city. Shops and restaurants on the doorstep, a short drive from the coast and South Downs

In the heart of beautiful Siena, it's just like staying with a friend, as hostess Paola chats whilst preparing local produce for breakfast

A special little house, renovated with huge style, filled with beautiful objects and with a delightfully quiet and secluded private garden