An incredible living museum, dedicated to the history of Sicily and the arts. Stay in the main house or in a cottage in the fecund garden

Scandi-Scottish cabin with views across the Kyle of Lochalsh, within walking distance of a cracking pub - a Sawday's Community Champion

A lovely big old farmhouse for gatherings of friends and family with your own indoor pool, sauna, gym and jacuzzi

Technically in Florence yet immersed in the Tuscan hills: easy comfort, country character, warm wonderful hosts, heavenly views

On top of sand dunes, this bright and airy cottage has glorious views, walks are lovely and you can bring your dog

A 17th-century Westmorland barn, fully renovated with a roomy living space and west-facing garden with views of High Street and Blencathra

A country idyll in the hills. Only 15 mins from Faro, but all is peaceful: dip in the pool, sip a cocktail in the shade, book in for dinner

A lovely old house and rambling garden in a medieval village with a monumental château, 12th-century church and a good local restaurant

A spacious farmhouse with a pool in the grounds of a stately château. Wander the walled garden, explore the countryside and pretty villages

Sofas in front of the fire, English wines and local ales, ambrosial food and smart rooms, all a short stroll from Sissinghurst Castle

One of England's oldest coaching inns, full of history and wonky floors, on a Surrey market town's high street

After a day touring châteaux, return to this pretty, very comfortable cottage with private terrace and a garden filled with birdsong

Step into the valley region from this beautifully restored 17th-century house surrounded by saltwater and freshwater canals and lakes

A 17th-century townhouse sitting on a quiet side street with lots of original features and a west-facing patio screened by vines and lemons

Drink a toast to your good fortune as you gaze across to Elba from a vast free-standing bath. You breakfast on the view-filled terrace

On the outskirts of Marazion, this timber clad house perched above the sea is a super pad for romantic couples

Welcome to an immaculate and historic retreat with private gardens, ten minutes from the Finistère coast (and oysters!)

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