Serene retreat in the French countryside with elegant interiors and impeccable hosting from the lovely Anne-Laure

A very tastefully restored old stone stable on a gloriously rural estate with woodland gardens, lake and a deer park

A B&B in a WWF-protected botanical garden beside Lake Maggiore. Wander and explore, take a dip in the lake. This place invites you to unwind

Amazing beaches, a pub you can hike to, a train to get you to Snowdonia... and your own remote cottage with stunning views

Charming gardens for you and your dog in a barn conversion in rural Norfolk half an hour from coast

Adorable cottages in pastoral peace with views to Wimborne Minster; cook and eat in modern kitchens. Blue flag beaches are close

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

A relaxed country feel in this fine family villa. It has space and comfort for six with gardens, private pool, and tennis court

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

Stylish eco barns with generous hampers - Threshing Barn sleeps 8, Hay Barn 2. Close to village, beach & pub, with friendly owners close by

Ski in winter, walk and cycle in summer - return to unbeatable hospitality, warm, large and comfortable bedrooms with views, robust food

A very pretty Victorian gothic house of limestone and brick, sitting peacefully on the edge of the village, eight miles from foodie Ludlow

Hike the Wild Boar Fells, get cosy at home with books, games and DVDs, and meet the farm’s hens, cows and sheep

A hop from the coast and charming Alnwick, a gorgeous and supremely comfortable country escape for friends and families. Dogs welcome too

A medieval monastery, stunningly revived, in untouristy, car-free Pisciotta. Sip greco on the terrace; scramble through olives to 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 elegant, historical building in the heart of Catania - an intimate hotel, yet grand with gorgeous architecture and a wonderful welcome

In a quaint village with a bakery, brasserie and shops, a handsome gîte with a wonderful pool and fashion museum