Two villas on opposite shores of a big lily-covered lake, fed with natural spring water from the Ticino river and surrounded by gardens

A light larch-clad space for lovers, or a retreat for walkers and writers in pretty Orford, once a medieval sea port but now on the river

Wild and peaceful small hotel bordering National Park of Guadarrama. Listen to birdsong, hike in the sierra, spend the day in Segovia

Spread out in much style with friends or family in a beautifully renovated Victorian farmhouse at the foot of the Howgill fells

If you need a great place in which to relax and don’t want to pay too much for it, try these excellent suites, which spoil you all the way

A 15th-century courtyard hides a petite contemporary apartment – a fabulous base from which to explore the city and all its treasures

Citrus scents the air, loungers flank a spakling pool. Light, cool, simple rooms, vibrant hosts, garden and olive groves - divine food

Traditional house with a contemporary and imaginative interior; stroll to shops and restaurants, jump in the car to explore Provence

Treat yourselves to a stay in the gloriously comfortable Astor Wing with private terrace and views to Hever Castle and the Tudor Garden

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

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

Dark skies and extensive views from this romantic hideaway cottage. Walk down to the loch, snuggle up by the wood-burner… a cosy retreat

Blissful views to vineyards and mountains from this faithful reproduction of a 16th-century manor. Eat well, hike, bike, sauna and swim

Come for big open skies, sweeping beaches and the charming towns of north Norfolk from this pretty flintstone cottage in Docking village

Come for the utter peace and quiet in this cosy cottage with amazing views and private walks to explore on the Bodnant Estate

An old-world inn full of colour, with open fires, cosy rooms, local food and the magnificent Northumberland National Park all around

Your own cottage sitting room downstairs and a swish bedroom up – breakfast in the courtyard before venturing forth to discover Canterbury