5 minutes from the Vatican in a tall palazzo above the British school. Owners share local tips, serve bakery-fresh breakfasts on the terrace

A fine old house packed with grand old things above Portree Bay in the middle of Skye - homely bedrooms, some huge, are a treat

Grand and old and filled with history, the estate and such a pretty house are a tonic, as are the well-tended grounds and parkland

Lavender shortbread and baked peaches for breakfast at this most artistic of homes. The courtyard with magnolia and orange trees is lovely

A lovely villa in the Sóller valley close to stunning beaches, secret coves and a dramatic mountain range. Mallorca never fails to seduce

A 200-year-old typical Mallorcan house with wooden beams, tiled floors, a view-filled garden and a big pool in beautiful Sóller

High-up, simple apartments, pools with fabulous views; kids play-things and donkeys, the glittering coast, Rapallo and Portofino down below

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

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

For retreats, groups of friends, and big families: come to recharge the senses at this special and ancient house enveloped by wild gardens

An ancient thatched cottage near Dartmoor with a warming log fire in winter and flowers inside and out in the summer

A beguiling retreat for a couple or a family of four – feel cosy and secluded in a thatched cottage close to the coast

A chilled, family-friendly hotel on a sandy surfing beach with huge views and a sensational pool with sustainability at its heart

A light, bright Georgian townhouse in a residential street directly opposite the lovely Lido and restaurant, near Clifton Village

Come for history, wildlife and a stunning garden estate with acres to roam. Bring children and dogs too. Fabulous

An elegant hotel with wellness area, gym, gourmet restaurant, bar, bistro and 15 contemporary bedrooms decorated with Sicilian flair

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