Quirky townhouse on the edge of the Peak District, with country walks from the door, plus shops, cinema, heritage centre, bistros and pubs

An incredible living museum, dedicated to the history of Sicily and the arts. Stay in the main house or in a cottage in the fecund garden

A fine designer house and pool above the coastal hurly-burly and one of the loveliest coves in Spain, backing onto a nature park. Happy hols

This stately-looking former manor house set back from the road in acres of gardens serves very good food and has rustic-chic bedrooms

A private villa beautifully flanked by gardens bursting with fruit. Here you'll find real Spanish character, style and a sun-trap terrace

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

A deliciously rural stone house with charmingly simple rustic-chic interiors and saline pool - an hour from Perugia

Immerse yourself in nature, wildlife, sustainability and slow food high up on the edge of a National Park

Tranquil couple’s getaway with a shared pool, wonderful views, and lavender plants in every direction. The delightful owners are next door

A Victorian farm steading cleverly repurposed as an open-plan holiday home with bright, colourful interiors, deep in the Perthshire hills

You’re wrapped in parkland here and close to the coast, gardens and war memorials. A treat of a stop-over for foodies

Dominating the village is this historic hotel... all frescoes, chandeliers, splendour at every turn. And a handsome pool, too

Hike down secret paths and along the Suffolk coast before a superb lunch or supper at this friendly inn; sweet bedrooms too

Lots of space and much to do for families and friends: it’s a short walk to Lee Bay, the coastal path or the village pub

You get the best of all worlds here. Delicious beds, Provençal soaps, vineyard views, fresh croissants a stroll away…

Wonderful views of the Cantabrian Sea, locally sourced food and fine bedrooms at a boutique hotel on the Asturian coast

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

After trekking Offa's Dyke, return to a cosy wood-burner stocked with logs and a sumptuous bed - you'll love this country retreat for two