Philippe and Stéphanie give you delicious food and comfortable, colourful bedrooms in their ancient château with gardens and pool

Delightful almshouse, steeped in history, in a peaceful churchyard setting with far-reaching countryside views

Sumptuous rooms with Renaissance-inspired art, infinity pool and gardens, just a short drive to Mantua’s historic city centre

An attractive converted stable with covered veranda, private garden and views over rolling countryside, minutes from the coast

Great for gatherings of family and friends: fine views, a good big kitchen, games room and pool; nearby caves and castles to explore

A botanical beauty deep in the Loire Valley, this elegant house has history and heart in abundance

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 small and stylish townhouse retreat in leafy Folkestone with excellent bedrooms and a terrace for breakfast in summer

An inspirational setting and an enthusiastic welcome from your hosts and their young family - lose your heart to its baroque beauty

1820s cottage with long views, a lovely garden and generous extras. Alnwick is close and miles of white sandy beaches with dunes

Rest, restore, and explore... from this smart, successful Cotswolds’ gastropub with ancient beams, roaring fires and truly pretty bedrooms

A fine old stone mill, the river rushing by, kingfishers, kayaking, swimming: it’s a dream place with Provence and Cévennes at the door

Two cosy cottages on a former winemaking estate with private terraces, a shared pool, stunning views and glorious walks from the door

Relaxed, bohemian vibe out in the wilds yet close to civilization. An organic garden and woodland yurt add to the convivial, communal idyll

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

A rather grand, opulent house with warm owners, interesting furniture and art and some fine Renaissance architectural elements intact

A stylish, thoughtful and impressive place for a family holiday, in a dreamy Charentais landscape with the odd sheep to keep you company

Three eco-friendly, fully accessible timber-clad lodges and three cabins on a private, beautiful lake - a Sawday's Community Champion