A hilltop setting for this ancient fortress with an illustrious past. You stay in apartments or farmhouses inside or outside the walls

Gather the clans and just come. It's lovely here among acres of wildlife-filled grounds – a Sawday's Community Champion

Come for big skies, loch views, much wildlife, acres of forest and a charming wood-clad cottage from which to explore such a remote spot

An 18th-century listed cottage in a pretty terrace with a private courtyard garden and pond, just a short walk from the high street

A red-brick cottage and Shepherd’s hut in a magical garden with a cookery school and views over the South Downs

A very tastefully restored old stone stable on a gloriously rural estate with woodland gardens, lake and a deer park

In glorious rural Umbria, a spacious old farmhouse with magnificent views of mountains and Lago Trasimeno, rustic décor and a lovely pool

Three comfortable, modern apartments with private terraces, a lovely garden to wander, a pool, a vineyard and views of rolling hills

A charming old cottage, steeped in history and in a stunning setting, close to the Coast Path and overlooking the bustling harbour at Fowey

A cosy, beautifully refurbished flat in a Georgian house bang in the middle of the unspoilt town with its pretty streets and houses

This famous old country house might not come cheap, but where else can you splash out in such decadent style for life’s big celebrations?

A classic French beauty of a place; home to an engaging young family who love to entertain and look after you with great care

Come for a spot of high-end cossetting with big, beautiful bedrooms, good food and far-reaching views in the Northumberland National Park

Come for authentic restoration, chic Savoyard décor, breathtaking views of the Portes du Soleil, and a chairlift a 7-minute drive

In an leafy quarter of central Milan, 2 inviting apartments run by generous Jane. Perfect for families and romancers

Unwind in a hammock, in the pool, in a balconied rose-coloured bedroom - meander local markets, pick a pepper, cook up a feast and have fun

History, elegance and art combine in this special spot near the Louvre. Wonderful staff too. Relax - take breakfast in bed

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