Sublime views across the Tuscan countryside, seasonal food and the kindest host. Children are welcome, oenophiles will be in heaven

Proper village pub with much-praised food and cosy rooms; country walks lead from the door and Oxford is half an hour away

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

Two lovely places to stay down by the shore of Clew Bay for much peace, space and modern comforts in a magical watery world

Victorian country house for 8-15 with gardens overlooking the Howgill Fells for happy reunions with family and friends

A warm retreat in a charming Sussex backwater, with a changing menu of fabulous food, and well-furbished bedrooms upstairs

Come for wide open countryside criss-crossed by a myriad of footpaths and this very comfortable, stylish and roomy retreat

A mix of bold colours, modern art and vintage finds give this classic French mansion bags of personality

Boutique hotel next to Funchal’s 15th-century cathedral, with a champagne and lobster bar, rooftop cocktail bar and an excellent restaurant

A grand yet cosy and relaxing farmhouse where you're encouraged to feel at home. Tasty home baking, charming rooms and a friendly host

French elegance meets English comfort in Paris by St Germain. Organic croissants, crisp duvets, an open fire... a favourite of many guests

Simple and rustic, this early 1700s farmhouse has warmth and charm, surrounded by countryside in the Perche

An old farm worker's cottage, niftily done up and nicely remote, with walking and fishing on the doorstep, four miles from Hadrian's Wall

Gather your loved ones and come for colourful, exuberant interiors, an absolutely gorgeous covered veranda and a pool with moveable floor

Elegant country château with a family feel, for big groups with or without children, and those who seek inspiration

A beautifully restored old coaching inn with a vibrant, bustling atmosphere, great food, friendly staff and super-swish bedrooms

A lovely villa with masses of space, filled with modern art and near to walking trails, beaches, shops and restaurants

Glorious airy living space in this superbly restored barn, a terrace with long views and a pool across the garden - bikes to borrow too