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 beautiful little collection of trulli near the Valle d’Itria – restored with flair and with gardens, woods and pool

A wonderfully comfortable light-filled house with long views, a sandy beach to walk to, fabulous walking and wildlife and a superb kitchen

High ceilings and exposed stone walls give a light, bright and rustic feel to this restored barn with fabulous views over a lush valley

Coffee served in silver cups & cakes are homemade in this duke’s palace, a throwback to the Moorish kingdom - a Sawday's Community Champion

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

Set off on blissful walks, trek home to crumpets and tea. There’s no better place to escape the 21st century than rural Devon

In a Valencian resort, a captivating and hospitable place - deal for groups of family or friends too, with independence plus B&B service

Historic old house in a beautiful, traditional village. Boulangerie, bar, crêperie all a stroll away

Three immaculate rooms in a 17th-century building; step out onto winding streets lined with trattorias, boutiques, fountains and monuments

Friendly pub in rural village near Cambridge with strong community feel, great local food, garden, snug room and fresh, pretty bedrooms

This architect-designed passive style house sits just behind the sand dunes at Waxham beach, one of Norfolk’s most lovely beaches

A chic bolthole in a sleepy Suffolk village with seriously good food, stylish bedrooms, riverside walks and Suffolk’s wild coast

The high life at this smart winery. Cellar tours, infinity pool, and beach nearby, couples seeking privacy will love the whole experience

A grand place for up to 12 adventurous souls and the young at heart: swim, bob in a boat, hike and cycle or simply revel in the greenery and peace

Near Mont St Michel, an 18th-century 'maison de plaisance' in historic grounds run by a charming family. Don't miss the table d'hôte!

A converted 19th-century church in the Northumberland National Park with beautiful stained-glass windows and a restored tower

A hugely seductive and stylish special place - with magnificent views, pool and bikes, vineyards and hilltop villages to visit