A lucky break to stay here: part of a 1669 grade-II* listed Almshouse with modern interiors; leafy and quiet yet a short hop from the town

What a surprise! Tucked into a row of tightly woven old cottages is this contemporary open-plan hideaway with huge windows and much flair

Come to the wild Cévennes to hike, ride, kayak down the Hérault river – or just revel in your pretty, generous house, pool and garden space

Two restored mill buildings in the serene French countryside, with river views and artful interiors – a peaceful self-catering escape

An artist's house imbued with an understated elegance. Stay for dinner; be charmed by the garden where fruit trees throng, hens loiter

A niftily converted barn with high vaulted ceiling sitting on a hill with wonderful views over a newly-created lake and the Stour Valley

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

You’ve got history on your doorstep in this beautiful and serene B&B, with charming gardens and a real sense of style in every room

The largest of three secluded cottages that share a gravel courtyard and a beautiful garden with cathedral views

A thatched farmhouse only just over the channel near Rouen that’s well hidden in lush gardens, but worth finding for the gourmet food alone

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

Rural Andalusian retreat with bags of boho style promises wide-open skies, mountain vistas and fabulous meals prepared by your host

Gracious Florentine hospitality, elegance and comfort, gazebo breakfasts, a flower-filled garden with pool and views of olive groves

Escape to the heart of the Haute-Savoie and this impressive château near Annecy, Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva

A charming transformation of a once boarded-up pub in a pretty village setting, beside the river Wye in the heart of the Peak District

Friendly touches everywhere, terrific food and drink, smart bedrooms above the sparkling bar – dogs and children welcome

A hugely seductive and stylish special place - with magnificent views, pool and bikes, vineyards and hilltop villages to visit

If you want to come to Venice as an open-hearted traveller rather than a tourist then this is the place for you - just walk to everything