Great taste – in decor and food – and a delicious heated pool. Views swoop over field and valley; trails, villages, wineries tempt

A 15th-century courtyard hides a petite contemporary apartment – a fabulous base from which to explore the city and all its treasures

18th-century barn with charming hosts, an infinity pool, delicious breakfasts and good walks; drive five minutes for gourmet dining

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

Escape your cares here, move from terrace to terrace tracking the sun's progress and dive into the sea from your own swimming platform

An exquisitely restored 1850s townhouse, steeped in history, with a sweet garden and within walking distance of the historic centre of Porto

Come to be looked after with delicious food and spoiling bedrooms in this mini stately home set in gorgeous parkland near Ludlow

High above the bay of Naples, this lovely B&B could be a Fellini film set. Romantic rooms are furnished with antiques, dinner is delicious

A gorgeous house, beautifully refurbished in contemporary style, with chic interiors and a swimming pool in a sublime English garden

Bask in the warmth of the owners at this chic 'maison de maître' in off-track Provence - 12km from lovely hilltop Gordes

A relaxed house in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park for groups of friends, or family get-togethers in quieter months

A lovely villa in the Sóller valley close to stunning beaches, secret coves and a dramatic mountain range. Mallorca never fails to seduce

A charming 17th-century village inn, a destination place for foodies and real beer lovers, with very comfortable and stylish bedrooms

Welcoming B&B with the feel of a high-end hotel, set in the charming town of Ay; France's fabulous Champagne region is on your doorstep

A 17th-century traditional Welsh longhouse in a very sheltered spot facing south and with a pretty garden surrounded by fields and meadows

Convivial breakfasts, beautiful bedrooms, art galore. Stroll to cliff-top views and Whitby harbour; walk all day the North York Moors

Like staying in a family home, only with Henri III furniture and rolling green views. Energetic hosts cook, farm, hunt, chat over champagne

Surrounded by delightful gardens, these gîtes are serene retreats from which you can discover the Dordogne, or gently unwind