Everything is on the doorstep and you'll find much comfort at these smart self-catering apartments in the heart of the city

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

Superb architecture & design reflect the industrial past, present and future in this cutting-edge pod for 2 - a Sawday's Community Champion

Tea in the summerhouse, breakfast by the fire, fresh flowers all around this warm family home. Step out to historic Shrewsbury high street

An ancient coaching inn opposite the church in the prettiest village – just the ticket for weary travellers who deserve nurturing

A 17th-century townhouse sitting on a quiet side street with lots of original features and a west-facing patio screened by vines and lemons

Wonderful views over medieval Gubbio from this rural stone farmhouse with pool, cottages and apartments sitting in lush gardens

In château parkland, 10 minutes from Chinon, find books, beams and open spaces for three renovated houses, a delight for families

Near lively Lyon, this handsome family house is perfect for a Zen-like escape with delicious vegetarian meals and well-travelled hosts

Italian style marries Californian comfort, with views over hilltop towns, vineyards and the majestic Sibillini mountains beyond

A small, quirky country house hotel with lovely staff, pretty rooms and heavenly food served in a pillared dining room

A very special design-led garden apartment on the ground floor of an elegant 1835 house on one of the prettiest crescents in the city

A peaceful grown-up place circled by meadows and woodland with helpful owners next door – a superb spot to explore the south-west

Books, meadow flowers, a rocking chair by a cosy fire at this treasure-trove cottage of beautiful things - down tiny lanes in west Cork

Two peaceful spaces in a beautiful garden with a morning concert from the birds and a terrace for magical outdoor meals

Spacious farmhouse with annexe, great for gatherings with family and friends. Fabulous walks and endless views over the Eglwysbach valley

Unadulterated elegance awaits at this gorgeous, ancient Tuscan house with large marble swimming pool, stunning gardens and dreamy views

Such lovely views from this light-filled flat, built in the 19th century – curl up with a book and gaze out to sea