You're on an ancient packhorse trail just a stone's throw from the coast. There's a timeless feel to this place and the peace is deep

View-filled apartments in Ortigia, the heart of Siracusa. Immerse yourself in the blue of the Ionian Sea; walk to culture, shops and restaurants

Escape to mountains, sea and sky, simple rooms and lovely food. Walk, swim, read, write, nurture your soul

In a quaint village with a bakery, brasserie and shops, a handsome gîte with a wonderful pool and fashion museum

Two lovely cottages, packed with atmosphere, character and comfort in a magical timeless valley surrounded by nature

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

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

A medieval monastery, stunningly revived, in untouristy, car-free Pisciotta. Sip greco on the terrace; scramble through olives to the sea

A heartwarming 250-year-old pub with roaring fires in the flagged bar, attractive bedrooms and a special welcome for children and dogs

Remote barn in the middle of Northumberland National Park with views for miles, wonderful walking trails and clear starry skies

Fun, playful space for a couple (+ 2 kids) with a semaphore code to crack, shared terrace & rainbow bathroom - a Sawday's Community Champion

Up in the hills, an amazing family holiday with Lorna and Lee. Weekly paella nights, great pool, lovely walking. Beauty therapies, too...

Painting courses on request, gardens full of roses, a parasol’d terrace, a seductive pool… we love this welcoming, traditional hotel

B&B in the heart of Totnes with bright bedrooms and a sitting room, plus an enchanting garden with ponds and wildflower beds

An 18th-century townhouse restored with flair by former restauranteurs: come for colour, comfort and sublime dining

The sort of inn we all love – open fires, original beams, ancient flags, tasty food, with lovely bedrooms thrown in for good measure

A reader writes, 'This place turned out to be one of life's wonderful experiences - a beautiful setting, gorgeous food, kindest of hosts...'

A spectacular hillside house, with brilliant food, welcoming hosts, wonderful walks all around and views to Windemere beyond