Cross an ancient stone bridge to a 1790s estate cottage, completely on its own down a little-used green lane and with the river rushing by

In an outstanding area for lovers of food and wine, here are 3 beautiful boltholes in the Alto Douro, the oldest wine region in the world

Painting courses on request, gardens full of roses, a parasol’d terrace, a seductive pool… we love this welcoming, traditional hotel

An old sporting lodge in Argyll renovated with sensitivity – fish in the river, gaze at the night skies, climb Ben Udlaidh

Perthshire country house with contemporary touches. Deer, red squirrels, tawny owls... and the river Tay glints way below through the trees

A stunning setting for this B&B - the village a thousand feet below you and views to both snow-capped Alps and Provence lavender fields

A very tranquil spot with views of rolling countryside, the East Mendip Way on the doorstep and good pubs within walking distance

An elegant, historical building in the heart of Catania - an intimate hotel, yet grand with gorgeous architecture and a wonderful welcome

A big, comfortable house with heated outdoor pool in 17 acres of gardens. Mountains, river swimming, hiking nearby; coast within the hour

A heavenly setting for this very well-hidden cottage with its own small pool, amazing views and delightful pebble beach below

Grand and old and filled with history, the estate and such a pretty house are a tonic, as are the well-tended grounds and parkland

Swing off the main road through the village, up into the hills along a narrow track and through a gate, observed by curious sheep

Three eco-friendly, fully accessible timber-clad lodges and three cabins on a private, beautiful lake - a Sawday's Community Champion

A deeply thoughtful conversion of an old Presbyterian church with wonderful watery views, much wildlife and plenty of space for joyful times

On the outskirts of Marazion, this timber clad house perched above the sea is a super pad for romantic couples

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

Hospitable Jorge and Clotilde love nothing more than sharing their colourful, chaotic old house with guests. The farm produce is fabulous

Take up residence in central London, surrounded by good places to eat. You have your own vast open-plan living space, light and lovely