A lovely little bolthole for two on a gorgeous estate with restaurant, deli and superb gardens, sculpture walk and wildflower meadows

Wow. The sort of place you long for on dreary days - inspired architecture, heavenly views, delicious home-cooked food, a lake for swimming

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

Ease into a slower way of life from this beautiful Tuscan farmhouse surrounded by vineyards in the valley below medieval Montepulciano

A stylish retreat in the heart of St Ives offering a glimpse of the sea – with an extra double sofabed room for friends or children

Chocolate-box cottages in deepest Normandy, owned by bright young things with a passion for organic cuisine and the good life

Great design along with much comfort and warmth an hour from Inverness airport, but a world away from the city and with stunning views

Comfortable, big family home with sparkling sea views over the Adriatic: discover the coast, explore Ancona and Loreto, enjoy the garden

Sitting at the end of the estate's private driveway, this sandstone building has grand Italianate columns and comfortable interiors

In the “green heart” of Italy: great hosts, dreamy views, super pool, and food to fall in love with, including vegetarian

It's steeped in history and a joy to visit. Explore the vast pistes of Les Portes du Soleil... return to log fires and house-party dinners

Come for home-baked bread, eggs from the hens, arrays of fresh fruit, and fabulous river views... your hosts do lovely B&B

Stay on a secluded private estate by the sea - once the home of the brilliant French writer, Colette

Remote wartime research station turned stylish retreat with knockout views, wild walks and a front-row seat to the weather

An enviable hideaway on a cobbled street high on a hill, with stunning views next to Galileo's house, the Villa Bardini and gardens

Two rural retreats up a shared drive for gatherings of friends and family who enjoy the great outdoors and good food from the Meikleour Inn

One of Scotland’s coolest hotels waits at the end of a four-mile track - you find loch, mountain and sky, and Tom’s fabulous food

A peaceful and unpretentious spot for a digital detox with long walks up on the moors and fabulous views from the top