Genuine hosts, fabulous food, a swimming pool and a private speedboat for exploring the coast; a sandy beach is a ten-minute walk away

A stately retreat, an oasis of calm and beauty. Picnic on the lawns, enjoy a glass of home-produced prosecco beneath a centuries-old tree

Your hosts couldn’t be nicer and look after you beautifully – this is a lovely, homely place with a rambling garden

Big house in peaceful lush oasis among the bananas, vines and aloe vera, a 20-minute walk down into Funchal

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool

A rare treat to stay in this lovely stone farmhouse in the Durham Dales with acres of private farmland and magical interiors by Rita Konig

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

A charming nook for two in pretty Barrington village with a foodie pub mere steps away and Somerset at your feet

Bags of character within and without at this four-storey village house with rooftop views over the mountains, next to a 12th-century church

An airy Estate Manager's House set in pretty grounds with a pool, orchard, barbecue and private terrace for long lazy days in the sun

Location, location, location - you can't beat it, so look past the dated kitchen and bathrooms and enjoy this light, bright, coastal home

Good old-fashioned service, fresh and gleaming surroundings, great food and very comfortable rooms at this rejuvenated roadside inn

Your own wing of an impressive 1700 baronial castle, restored with authenticity and with a lovely garden, wildlife and a little river

A light-filled B&B packed with family memories and heirlooms in a small hamlet tucked into the foothills of the Dolomites

Come to be inspired - by the buildings, the art, the concept and the rich history. You should be very comfortable too, and well fed

A large, light-filled house sitting very much on its own in the middle of the peaceful Eden Valley with masses of space inside and out

Three airy gîtes set in 300 acres of vineyard and gardens. A welcoming base for exploring the marvellous Minervois – 15km from Carcassonne

A captivating place for couples and families with fabulous views, pool and foodie hosts. River water sports, markets and vineyards near