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

Country house set in a secluded valley in a nature reserve with a pool & walks from the door. The small town of Jabugo is just over the hill

A deceptively roomy 300-year-old stone cottage, with front-facing windows overlooking the harbour - just a short walk up to town

Historic old house in a beautiful, traditional village. Boulangerie, bar, crêperie all a stroll away

Explore the coastal paths on foot or by bike, or simply sunbathe next to the pool... Leafy gardens, comfortable rooms and excellent dinners

Warm interiors, pretty bedrooms and excellent breakfasts – good value in a very handy central spot

Kids range free, adults recharge in these two gites on a 17th-century estate with sunny gardens and a pool. Hike, bike, swim, relax...

A Cotswolds hideaway in a cottage on a farm, with space to roam for children, and glorious valley views

Feel at ease in a lovely old townhouse filled with pictures and personality and including a separate loft apartment

A lovely 1650 Welsh longhouse, beamed and flagstoned with a verdant garden in a totally unspoilt spot in the Snowdonia National Park

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

Stylish apartment overlooking a vibrant market in the old city, with restaurants and historic attractions in easy walking distance

A peaceful, harmonious house with roots in the 14th century, a glorious enclosed pool area and a huge amount of space for happy gatherings

In the gardens of a laid-back country house, a barn with books, games, faded rugs and a grand piano – a treat for convivial families

An immaculately restored old inn with generous bedrooms, great food, ale and wine. Locals love it as much as those who make it a destination

Burrowed into the olive groves of the lush Valle d’Itria, a restored masseria with five trulli, an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tub and lovely views

Close to Girona, with huge valley views! Cosy fires for cool days, shady corners for hot ones, lovely people, and the food a revelation

A 200-year old townhouse on a charming cobbled street with stunning views from the terraces over rooftop Olhão and down to the sea