Old meets new seamlessly here: ancient stone, lofty beams, good comfort, wood-burner, Jacuzzi/spa and space to relax in the designer garden

A charming gite tucked into acres of ancient parkland, with an outdoor kitchen and deer wandering by at dusk

Near Mont St Michel, an 18th-century 'maison de plaisance' in historic grounds run by a charming family. Don't miss the table d'hôte!

A sprint from London: a Cotswolds pub modernised with sympathy and care. Happy staff, organic ales and food, gorgeous rooms

A well-equipped cottage with a big beautiful garden and murmuring brook. Come for peace, wildlife, a welcome cocktail, and grand walking

Come for a quintessentially English country cottage tucked down a village path with wisteria in the garden and a short walk to a foodie pub

Fall in love with this riverside village, lost in a valley in lower Normandy, and this sunny house for couples or families

A grand spot with superb Peak District views for this secluded, immaculate conversion of a handsome stable block - spacious and light

A welcoming country-house hotel that’s popular with locals and visitors alike - good food, stylish rooms and an airy restaurant wait

Feel very private in this light and bright B&B room with your own patio and pleasing views over garden and countryside

Take up residence in central London, surrounded by good places to eat. You have your own vast open-plan living space, light and lovely

Hear the rooting of wild boar and the odd splash of the pool. For those who love fresh air, great food, and the sweet hills of Umbria

A hugely seductive and stylish special place - with magnificent views, pool and bikes, vineyards and hilltop villages to visit

A much-loved Tuscan villa restored to elegance: dinner on the terrace, frescoes, rose garden, a small spa…and Florence a 20-minute drive

A pair of historic houses with far-reaching views of the Cotswold Hills and walks from the gate

An oh-so-special B&B in Palermo's ancient heart. This city at the edge of Europe, with its Arab-Norman-Byzantine heritage, is fascinating

Stunning views from sunny bedrooms. Delightful lively hosts, good breakfasts with homemade jams, colour galore in the acre of garden

A smart riverside inn with airy interiors that brim with character – old beams, open fires, well-kept ales and comfy bedrooms