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

Off the beaten track doesn’t get any better! Enticing, eclectic restoration of 2 houses - gorgeous grounds too. Great let together

An oast house B&B surrounded by countryside and with a blooming garden; walk to the village pub, drive to nearby stately castles

A very comfortable and attractive 1820 gate lodge surrounded by mature trees on a family estate, in gently rolling countryside

In a profoundly peaceful spot between arty St Ives and stunning Marazion, a hideaway for two surrounded by gardens and parkland

An oh-so-special B&B in Palermo's ancient heart. This city at the edge of Europe, with its Arab-Norman-Byzantine heritage, is fascinating

A suburban eco retreat with plenty of carefully balanced energy savings, including an untamed garden and a natural pond for wild swimming

A swishly renovated detached hideaway up a hill, surrounded by vineyards and with a covered deck for sweeping views just outside Beaune

Pretty Parisian pied-à-terre tucked down a private lane, with a lively local scene and the metro just a minute away

Get a taste of la dolce vita in this boutique resort perched high above Sorrento, gateway to the dazzling Amalfi coast

A large, light-filled house sitting very much on its own in the middle of the peaceful Eden Valley with masses of space inside and out

An Italian farmhouse with soothing views, a scented garden and a big swimming pool where you can unwind in peace and comfort

This secluded New Forest inn is a magnet for families in summer: a good pint and the log fire make it a superb winter hideaway too

A charming comfy cottage with wood burner, delicious hilly views, walks radiating from the door. We didn’t want to leave!

Welcoming and friendly place in a non-touristy area of the city within walking distance of the centre and with a fabulous roof terrace

A serene riverside retreat on the Lot, with manicured gardens and a shared pool, tennis court and children's playground for socialising

Immerse yourself in sentiment and romance at Valeria’s charming Veronese villa. The walls sing with framed opera programmes and music scores

A homespun inn with irresistible prices in a tiny village deep in the country - the river Tweed is close, fishing can be arranged