Step into a place full of life, colour, texture and clever design surrounded by beautiful gardens and lakes

A smartly refurbished village pub with its own micro-brewery and a huge emphasis on cooking great food from a network of local suppliers

A peaceful old ivy-clad mill with a beautiful terrace overlooking the water, sculpture-filled gardens, comfortable bedrooms and hearty food

Up in the hills, with Hay Bluff towering beside, this old stone house is sheltered in the valley with the brook rushing past to a waterfall

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

An airy, art-filled house for groups of family or friends, with plenty of space, a secluded courtyard and pool near the beach

A grand yet very homely place with tasty home cooking and 200 acres to explore. Play golf, sail, cycle – wonderfully informal

Comfort, warmth and thoughtful breakfasts at this informal, friendly B&B, sitting in a lush spot between the mountains and the sea

A beautifully-restored old cow shed, light and airy, floating over a wildflower meadow in spring and summer. 20 mins from the Jurassic Coast

Converted stables in the grounds of a manor house in a peaceful village just outside Banbury with lovely walking in the Cherwell Valley

A serene apartment for 2 in the old fisherman's quarter in Olhão, close to amazing beaches. A special place for nature lovers and foodies

Delicious food, stylish bedrooms and very helpful staff come hand in hand at this buzzing little inn that stands on the river Avon

Tranquil manor house deep in Bordeaux wine region with six acres of grounds, a tennis court and swimming pool

Glorious views across Northumberland countryside from this peaceful and comfortable cottage with almost an acre of garden

Gloriously green rural self-catering apartments with pool and lovely, friendly owners

A sleek, light-filled, beautifully designed, minimalist space for 4 with wrap-around views from the living room and pool

You’ll love Tintinhull Gardens, Montacute House, Ham Hill, the Prince of Wales pub... and this sweet, fresh, cosy, rustic cottage for two

Up the winding road to stillness, nature and a magical view. There’s glorious Gubbio to explore, and a log fire to come home to