Two comfortably converted farm buildings, with a shared pool on a gentle south-east sloping vineyard with wonderful views

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

Countryside and seaside all in one go – what could be more inspiring? Lovely Louisa lives down the road, on hand if you need her

Plunge into real Spain from this ancient village house with very modern interiors, stunning views, a cooling pool and a hop from restaurants

Eight miles from York, near Moors and coast, this smart historic home is just the ticket for families and small groups of friends

A perfectly renovated farmhouse in the grounds of a delightful château deep in the Normandy countryside, with a lovely walled garden

Artistic souls will like it here, and those who enjoy shared meals & getting to know other people in dramatic countryside; Arezzo is 40 km

The living is easy here: laze in the subtropical garden, float in the saltwater pool, let the kids play and meet other guests over dinner

Rooms with rooftop and mountain views, luxurious in their simplicity, heavenly breakfasts out on the terrace, and a cultured, caring owner

A small, family-run boutique hotel sitting right at the foot of Etna with wonderful views, garden, pool and ambrosial Sicilian breakfasts

A dear little gingerbread-style house in the prettiest part of the estate with your own pontoon and boat on the edge of a shimmering lake

The smallest of three secluded cottages that share a gravel courtyard and a beautiful garden with cathedral views

A big, beamed contemporary barn filled with light and surrounded by unspoilt countryside for a romantic retreat.

Gardeners will be very happy staying in this generous, comfortable B&B surrounded by stunning gardens with year-round interest

An achingly elegant boutique hotel set in Mallorca's olives and orchards: candlelit organic dinners, infinity pool, a smart little bar...

A townhouse with a walled garden by the church in a peaceful village where friendly Scottish owners feed and look after you well

A rural idyll with a hot tub under starlit skies and surrounded by gorgeous countryside in the South Lakes within a hop of vibrant Cartmel