The Gautiers have the finest sense of how to treat guests: dreamy bedrooms, fantastic food & the pool beneath the orange trees is a delight

High up and with splendid views of the estuary and harbour, this roomy apartment is a very comfortable base for seaside holidays

Down a track with a delightfully remote feel but near to the coast and with good walking and cycling; views out to sea are awesome

A quirky hotel with enthusiastic owners in an authentic Andalucian town, just ten minutes up winding roads from Marbella

A beautiful cream stone building in the grounds of a grand château, with a large and view-filled outdoor terrace for peaceful dawdling

This eco-friendly farmhouse in the hills of Fiesole is 10km from Florence. Good company, superb views of Tuscany, and food for the soul!

An irresistible eco restaurant-hotel of character and charm, run by two friendly families and set in gorgeous grounds. Foodie heaven

A beguiling retreat for a couple or a family of four – feel cosy and secluded in a thatched cottage close to the coast

A spiritual, rustic retreat for nature-lovers, writers, artists. In protected woodland, well away from bustle, close to the lapping river

A light, bright, art-filled space with private garden on a quiet residential street just a short walk from shops, markets and good food

Plenty of uncluttered easy space both in and out by the private pool - children love the freedom - great wine, food, and cycling country

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

Sweep along the gravel drive through lawns and specimen trees to this elegant manor house with 17th-century roots

This deeply peaceful retreat will soothe the soul; come to walk, bike, sail then back to a roaring fire and good book. A sublime spot

Stay a while... lulled by lapping sea and fragrant hanging gardens - cool, light, balconied, classic, intimate, unpretentious

Chill under poolside palm trees or lose yourself in novels on super comfy armchairs. Funchal with its colourful markets is within easy reach

An 18th-century coaching inn right in the heart of an old Welsh drovers' town, with award-winning food and the Brecon Beacons rising behind

In truffle, lavender and olive oil country, a dreamy wine château with terraced gardens, run by hosts whose happiness is infectious