Fringing Tuscany countryside and fun Montone, an authentic Umbrian mansion with Slow Food, lavender fields, apartments and pool. Pure Italy

This is a superb base to explore the island's glittering bays, vibrant coastal cities, mountains, valleys and forests

Escape your cares here, move from terrace to terrace tracking the sun's progress and dive into the sea from your own swimming platform

Dominating the village is this historic hotel... all frescoes, chandeliers, splendour at every turn. And a handsome pool, too

Remote barn in the middle of Northumberland National Park with views for miles, wonderful walking trails and clear starry skies

Cosy bolthole for two in a charming market town on the edge of Dartmoor – stroll to restaurants and shops or explore the moors

A country idyll in the hills. Only 15 mins from Faro, but all is peaceful: dip in the pool, sip a cocktail in the shade, book in for dinner

From the delicious scented garden with its limestone pool to the cool rooms with perfect linen, this is a place for a special occasion

Historic buildings by a turreted manor house, beautifully renovated to welcome large parties with grounds to roam and dreamy river views

Charming, laid-back B&B in the foothills of the Algarve. All you hear are the birds, yet the beaches are a ten-minute drive

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

Pretty, thatched, perfectly round: a romantic village bolthole with retro touches. Grab flip-flops, leads and run the dogs on Pendower beach

Bountiful breakfasts, the warmest of owners and Breton adventures. Enjoy romantic ruins, quaint villages and delicious seafood suppers

Bright and spacious barn for two and a baby on the South Downs Way, close to Brighton and the coast

Bustling Fowey harbour sweeps out below this Victorian townhouse. Walk to shops and restaurants, hike the coastal path, return to comfort

Glorious views of Derwentwater and Skiddaw from this comfortable house. Art dotted about, a big table for chatty meals and a pretty garden

A charming 17th-century cottage in a quaint village with views and the owners' pub, farm shop, Wellness Barn and brewery just a short walk

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