Elegant Italian style in a sensitively-restored villa with sweeping views over rolling hills and forests

Gardeners will be very happy staying in this generous, comfortable B&B surrounded by stunning gardens with year-round interest

A cosy nest on the ramparts of an ancient fishing port, with sparkling lagoon views from a top-floor living area

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

Bedrooms with terraces and views over St Michael’s Mount Bay. Explore the gardens; walk from the door to glorious beaches

Authenticity and originality combine at this family chateau with its panelled rooms, theatrical flourishes and charming candlelit dinners

A spacious, luxurious family retreat, remote but close to Audierne. Watch surfers shoot the waves as seagulls wheel above

It's steeped in history and a joy to visit. Explore the vast pistes of Les Portes du Soleil... return to log fires and house-party dinners

A nicely priced inn on Shaftesbury's high street with a warm contemporary style and some excellent food – fine local walking waits

Artistic souls will like it here, and those who enjoy shared meals & getting to know other people in dramatic countryside; Arezzo is 40 km

Hidden in a beautiful, timeless valley with gorgeous gardens, mellow stone bridge, views and rushing river, is a very special place to stay

Rooms with rooftop and mountain views, luxurious in their simplicity, heavenly breakfasts out on the terrace, and a cultured, caring owner

Come for breezy bedrooms, pretty gardens, a serene pool and delicious breakfasts at this gorgeous finca in rural Extremadura near Trujillo

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

Weaving medieval magic, this dreamy hideaway is an ideal base for nature-loving gourmands to explore the region

A hugely seductive and stylish special place - with magnificent views, pool and bikes, vineyards and hilltop villages to visit

Fire up the BBQ, watch the sunsets, stroll to one of the best stretches of coastline in the world. Bliss for walkers, birders and escapees

A small yet elegant place for couples or small groups to enjoy the open countryside, rest, join a cooking course or book a massage