Step into a place full of life, colour, texture and clever design surrounded by beautiful gardens and lakes

Crackling fires in winter, croquet in the summer. Life ticks by peacefully - rooms are engagingly old-fashioned, the garden is much-loved

This is a superb base to explore the island's glittering bays, vibrant coastal cities, mountains, valleys and forests

A comfortably stylish renovation of a 19th-century farmhouse, perfect for big groups & multi-generation families to reconnect in rural peace

A converted old granary next to a traditional Welsh longhouse in a deeply rural setting for unfussy nature lovers

An alpine hotel connected to nature with spa, sauna and swimming pool fed from a natural spring; mountains & lakes to explore, yoga classes, & more

Grade II-listed country hotel with lovely gardens and an excellent restaurant, a short walk from Ambleside and the top of Lake Windermere

A lovely wisteria-clad inn in a traditional Cotswold village with grand walks, a pretty garden, tasty food and thoughtful bedrooms

An eco B&B (minus hair shirt) in the stunning Meon Valley surrounded by woodland and wildlife - a Sawday's Community Champion

A charming villa in a quiet neighbourhood with pool, fab sea views & an easy stroll to eateries. Water sports & golf are easy from here

Simple and rustic, this early 1700s farmhouse has warmth and charm, surrounded by countryside in the Perche

Feel very private in this light and bright B&B room with your own patio and pleasing views over garden and countryside

An immaculately restored 1500s palazzo, filled with history, art, antiques and books in the buzzing heart of a charming town

A charming hotel in a quiet neighbourhood in medieval Bologna, just the ticket for a city escape filled with food, history and culture

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

A traditional country house experience with plenty of space for big family get-togethers, on a very old estate with fascinating gardens

Gaze out to the shimmering bay from your bird and nature-filled retreat in the tree-studded mountains near Alcúdia

Stunning Tuscan views over the Tiber valley from the gorgeous pool and gardens and very comfortable living spaces at this home-from-home