Once a coach house, now a split-level place to stay – you can walk to the river and it's just a short hop to central London

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

Come for big skies, loch views, much wildlife, acres of forest and a charming wood-clad cottage from which to explore such a remote spot

A heavenly setting for this very well-hidden cottage with its own small pool, amazing views and delightful pebble beach below

A Georgian manor house in the old quarter of Penzance, close to the water, with good food and a chilled vibe

A friendly, generous, big old house with not an ounce of pretension. Big families will adore gathering here to have fun and unwind

Classic coaching inn in a bustling village offers restful rooms, real ales and the Cotswolds on your doorstep

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

A destination B&B. Hunker down in thoroughly spoiling surroundings with delightful owners near St Jean de Luz, Biarritz and Bayonne

A lovely villa with masses of space, filled with modern art and near to walking trails, beaches, shops and restaurants

Come to this delightful house, a marriage of old stones and modern furniture, for pure remote air, great outdoor sports and fine dining

An immaculately restored old inn with generous bedrooms, great food, ale and wine. Locals love it as much as those who make it a destination

Your own private suite in the wing of a traditional Burgundian winemaker's house in a tiny hamlet, surrounded by fields of vines

A lovely big house with huge riverside gardens and an easy-going charm – a 15-minute walk from bookish Hay-on-Wye

Inland Algarve, away from the crowds – this gorgeous house with pool and gardens is a haven for families and friends

What a surprise! Tucked into a row of tightly woven old cottages is this contemporary open-plan hideaway with huge windows and much flair

Elegance and ease mark this gentle group of Loire-Valley buildings, with soft-textured interiors and the owners’ fine hospitality and food

A luxurious 1920s manor house with superbly stylish rooms, secluded gardens and a heated pool; close to the Picardy coast