Set loose your inner castaway on your very own island with enthralling views and much wildlife a short boat ride from Skye

Wander down a pebble path to this large, light holiday home near La Rochelle. Eco-friendly, accessible to all, and perfectly peaceful

Strolling distance from the village of Seggiano, peace and beauty fill every corner of this ancient, view-filled retreat

A rural farmhouse B&B with view-filled bedrooms, hearty breakfasts and walks from the door. The Dowies are generous hosts

In wild Jura, surrounded by fields and heather-covered hills, a secluded farmhouse with cosy rooms and sublime views of Small Isles Bay

Bags of character within and without at this four-storey village house with rooftop views over the mountains, next to a 12th-century church

Dreamy, languid beauty at this spacious, airy, arty house with garden and pool in typical Pugliese countryside

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

A handsome Georgian townhouse pub in Newbury, with a name steeped in local lore and Donnington Castle just up the road

On the site of an old sawmill in the mountains of the Jura, a guesthouse of warmth and charm - with table d'hôtes, a pool and a spa

You're overlooking the main square in medieval Umbertide from this cosy, second-floor apartment, so you'll feel very much like a local

Perched on a hilltop in a nature reserve, two lovely places to stay. Hike and beach-hop all day before relaxing in the pool

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

In peaceful walled gardens, this former convent is a quiet retreat just a stone’s throw from the Riviera coast and the best of Tuscany

A wonderful green getaway with wrap-around views of Norfolk nature; walk Weavers’ Way, birdwatch at Blakeney, enjoy the coast at Cromer

Wingham is a pretty village near Canterbury known for its thatched cottages, medieval houses, and a much-loved pub called The Dog

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

A 200-year-old cortijo in a totally tranquil spot with gated pool, two acres of grounds, an orchard and olive terraces with mountain views