5 minutes from the Vatican in a tall palazzo above the British school. Owners share local tips, serve bakery-fresh breakfasts on the terrace

A stylish, refined 17th-century house off a quiet street with its own garden and lots of generous surprises, a short hop to everything

This classy, refurbished village pub is the community hub, chock-full of locals and a popular destination for foodies. Lovely bedrooms too

A sustainably run 1902 farmhouse and a cottage in countryside close to a wonderfully wild stretch of the North Devon coast

A small yet elegant place for couples or small groups to enjoy the open countryside, rest, join a cooking course or book a massage

Sleek modern interiors now grace this ancient building with architectural joys, a courtyard garden and rooftop terrace with views

In the beautiful Somerset hamlet of St Catherine, a cosy wooden cabin surrounded by fields and woods. Wonderful walks from the front door...

Your own wing of an impressive 1700 baronial castle, restored with authenticity and with a lovely garden, wildlife and a little river

Fringing Tuscany countryside and fun Montone, an authentic Umbrian mansion with Slow Food, lavender fields, apartments and pool. Pure Italy

A cottage in a conservation village with logs in the burner, sloe gin on the table, and a good dining pub you can walk to

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

A bright, colourful lodge, part of an 18th-century abbey with a private garden, swimming pool, books, games and a cosy fire

A 16th-century characterful gem right on the harbourside, serving excellent food at reasonable prices and with pleasant bedrooms

Great taste – in decor and food – and a delicious heated pool. Views swoop over field and valley; trails, villages, wineries tempt

A 200-year-old village house surrounded by vineyards. Light-filled interiors, lots of art, a garden and your own sparkling pool

Four bright and warm cottages with gardens, for families and friends, plus activities for children and endless walks for you and your dog

A grand piano to play and a delicious bed to sink into, at this cool, arty bolthole near Frome. For those who love spaciousness and peace

A clutch of airy properties, most with their own jasmine-scented terraces arranged around a funky pool