Something to astound at every turn where the traditional and downright quirky collide to stunning effect. Friendly, flexible hosts too

A very pretty old coach house in a south London garden – perfect for a couple or a family. Friendly owners live across the courtyard

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

A bright and beautiful six-bedroom house with lovely mature gardens in the glorious Lake District: bring your entire tribe plus the dog

The central part of a much larger building in a 17th-century hamlet with bright, spacious rooms, shared pool and glorious private gardens

Close to Girona, with huge valley views! Cosy fires for cool days, shady corners for hot ones, lovely people, and the food a revelation

A renovated bright apartment with lots of space, a hop, skip and jump away from the shingle beach of seaside-jolly Deal

A delightful coastal house with lush courtyard gardens, masses of space, home office and terraces galore

A gorgeous barn conversion in the heart of the High Weald with superb walking, only five miles from Tunbridge Wells

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

A rural farmhouse B&B with view-filled bedrooms, hearty breakfasts and walks from the door. The Dowies are generous hosts

Cosy bolthole for two in a charming market town on the edge of Dartmoor – stroll to restaurants and shops or explore the moors

Relaxed, friendly bistro in the heart of Frome with boutique bedrooms above. Open all day - continental breakfasts and a classic French menu

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

Surrounded by its vineyards, a Tuscan villa for a memorable, stylish treat of a stay - a sophisticated décor and opulence at every turn

A beautiful cream stone building in the grounds of a grand château, with a large and view-filled outdoor terrace for peaceful dawdling

Former pear-press cellar, now a swish bolthole with magical mountain views. In the village centre, 15-minutes’ drive to the Paradiski slopes

An important spot for this grand 19th-century château on the banks of the Loire, steeped in history and with kind, erudite owners