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

A roomy, open-plan space for romantics, with complete privacy but with pub, bakery and views of the market garden from your own terrace

A deliciously rural stone house with charmingly simple rustic-chic interiors and saline pool - an hour from Perugia

After trekking Offa's Dyke, return to a cosy wood-burner stocked with logs and a sumptuous bed - you'll love this country retreat for two

A small, trendy hotel, very much of its time, with oodles of style, stunning bedrooms and fantastic staff

Kids range free, adults recharge in these two gites on a 17th-century estate with sunny gardens and a pool. Hike, bike, swim, relax...

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

Friendly touches everywhere, terrific food and drink, smart bedrooms above the sparkling bar – dogs and children welcome

The nicest owners, the most magical place with wild land to roam. Two barns share a pretty courtyard; Devon's delights are on the doorstep

Elegantly restored mariner’s cottage with tasteful interiors and sweeping, uninterrupted views over the ever-changing estuary

Hilltop château on the edge of a small village half an hour from Saint-Émilion, with a lovely garden, a swimming pool and two lakes

Surrounded by delightful gardens, these gîtes are serene retreats from which you can discover the Dordogne, or gently unwind

An elegant 1890 home in vibrant Bembridge for birdwatching, beaches and wildlife, with hot tub and extra beds for overflow guests

In four acres of garden and woodland (a child’s dream) a house and interlinking barn for 10 guests. Secluded but close to everything

An eye-catching ancient inn with a colourful flower garden in summer, delicious local food and very presentable bedrooms

Premier cru vineyards at the door, an original wine cellar for tastings, and a heated pool with vineyard views

Come for a pretty village in fabulous walking country, delicious estate-sourced food, friendly staff and very comfortable bedrooms