An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners

Stylish apartment overlooking a vibrant market in the old city, with restaurants and historic attractions in easy walking distance

No-nonsense farm conversions with open, airy rooms and good big showers sharing a pool, a playground and fabulous views. Great walks, too

An elegant house with ancient roots and a shimmering pool – explore the Charente countryside, drive to lovely Angoulême

You're overlooking the main square in medieval Umbertide from this cosy, second-floor apartment, so you'll feel very much like a local

A 15th-century courtyard hides a petite contemporary apartment – a fabulous base from which to explore the city and all its treasures

Bask in the beautiful Basque country at this friendly B&B in the village, with family-run restaurant for delicious suppers

Simple, stylish interiors at this restored cottage on a rural estate overlooking the river Tay, with farmland, forest and trails to discover

Traditional bedrooms lie under the beams of this fascinating country mansion - a grand, hospitable B&B near St Malo and sand beaches

A lovely 1650 Welsh longhouse, beamed and flagstoned with a verdant garden in a totally unspoilt spot in the Snowdonia National Park

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

A cottage in a conservation village with logs in the burner, sloe gin on the table, and a good dining pub you can walk to

Friendly inn close to Glastonbury. Locals come for breakfast, there's a lively bar and excellent bedrooms, some with a bath in the room

Spotless and thoughtful B&B overlooking St Michael's Mount with delicious breakfasts, warm owners and plenty of space to yourselves

Gather family or friends and fall in love with this gorgeous house, beautiful garden, glimmering Ullswater and stunning countryside

Come to be thoroughly cosseted and nurtured in this ancient Presbytery surrounded by rolling countryside with views of the Dordogne river

A 18th-century house with pool in a small town with friendly owners and a tropical garden of banana, fig and, of course, frangipani

Take the road less travelled as you climb into the Welsh hills to discover this lovely 16th-century farmhouse full of family history