A magical medieval castello, gloriously gothic with tower, moat and ghost, fit for a Shakespearian play.

Luxuriate in style at this central Lecce palazzo with gorgeous rooms, delicious breakfasts (lunch & dinner by arrangement). Walk everywhere

An ancient thatched cottage near Dartmoor with a warming log fire in winter and flowers inside and out in the summer

A 18th-century house with pool in a small town with friendly owners and a tropical garden of banana, fig and, of course, frangipani

Serious art, lovely lighting, great sound system and a fat wood-burner belting out the heat at this super place for families or friends

Warm interiors, pretty bedrooms and excellent breakfasts – good value in a very handy central spot

Beautifully restored house with a literary history, no neighbours and private access to a sandy bay beyond the pines

Stay just minutes from the sea in colourful Donaghadee for wild swims, island visits, bird watching and coastal walks

A charming base in historic Beaulieu - expect delicious food, traditional country-house interiors, and walks that start from the front door

Three airy gîtes set in 300 acres of vineyard and gardens. A welcoming base for exploring the marvellous Minervois – 15km from Carcassonne

A charming B&B in south Sardinia, near Cagliari: circled by palms and cypresses, overlooking sweet-smelling lemon & orange groves. Bliss

An old chapel, smartly and sustainably converted, with a hot tub to soothe tired limbs after country walks through fells and dales

Sublime views across the Tuscan countryside, seasonal food and the kindest host. Children are welcome, oenophiles will be in heaven

Very private and comfortable rooms with their own entrances at this generous B&B with glorious gardens and views to the Black Mountains

An immaculately restored cottage with a blissful sun room, private terrace, gardens, pool and orchard for a warm and peaceful hideaway

Come to be doused in nature, tradition and rare Vino Santo at this soulful retreat, girded by orchards between the Dolomites and Lake Garda

Cross an ancient stone bridge to a 1790s estate cottage, completely on its own down a little-used green lane and with the river rushing by

Stylish barn in the Slaughters – footpaths from the door, idyllic Cotswolds villages to explore. Head home for garden drinks and barbecues