Elegance and ease mark this gentle group of Loire-Valley buildings, with soft-textured interiors and the owners’ fine hospitality and food

A scented garden, delicious local delicacies and those coastal landscapes. This place is a sensory feast

A real gem set back from the hustle and bustle but perfectly placed to explore the city's many charms

Wild beauty and hundreds of birds on the shore of a freshwater lake. Frank and Daniella look after you in a homely, fuss free way

Just below the Tuscan town of Massa Marittima, an agriturismo loved by sporty types and families, with wonderful food on site

A trulli hamlet immersed in nature, on the wilder side of Puglia with visits to white-washed hilltop towns and cooking with Nonna Maria

A sweet little gîte for two in the centre of a dreamy medieval village. Happily private but with loads to explore from your door

A fabulous country boozer, revamped in style with a buzzy atmosphere, great food and welcoming bedrooms - good walking countryside too

A historic Cornish farmhouse, sitting pretty in its own land at the side of a valley, with comfortable bedrooms and an independent feel

Jagged Dolomite peaks frame every view from this farmhouse with two neat apartments – come sun or snow, adventures in nature await

Delightful almshouse, steeped in history, in a peaceful churchyard setting with far-reaching countryside views

Eschew the crowds for your own slice of bliss in this ancient hamlet with village green - self-catering with a hotel feel and dreamy pool

A classic period property right on the river, perfectly placed to explore the delights of nearby Marlborough

An 18th-century cottage in a tranquil village, formerly the bakery, now restored to perfection with oodles of space and much comfort

Two lovely cottages with a fresh, modern style, private terrace, tranquil communal gardens with an orchard and pool

If you want to come to Venice as an open-hearted traveller rather than a tourist then this is the place for you - just walk to everything

A fascinating place steeped in history and abuzz with prize-winning winery activity. Plus rustic cottages, golf, a restaurant and 2 pools