Sumptuous suites arranged around a sunny internal courtyard inside an ancient monastery - an intimate sanctuary for those who seek comfort

Rural bliss at the end of the lane: a cottage for 2 with wine and local biscuits in the hamper and farmers’ markets within a 5-mile drive

Visit the walled city of Evora, have dinner with the friendliest hosts, pet the dogs & donkeys. Head out for culture, vineyards and menhirs

Old beams and rich history: a dramatic setting for fireside chats, superb breakfasts (home-reared, baked, grown) - and Midsomer Murders

Rustic, sophisticated, relaxed, charming… ancient Follonico is all these things, and gazes on the loveliest hills in Tuscany

A light-filled, modern house with wonderful sea views through vast picture windows stretching all the way to St Kilda on clear days

A lake to fish, a terrace for evening sun and a choice of two spaces, quite private and with a shared pool and games room just a short hop from pretty Auvillar

Welcoming, dog-friendly pub with food to rave about, cracking countryside views and very comfortable bedrooms

A small, stylish hotel lost in the country with beautiful rooms, excellent food, fine walking and a river passing directly outside

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

A small, quirky country house hotel with lovely staff, pretty rooms and heavenly food served in a pillared dining room

Light-and-colour filled cottage with gardens and sea views on the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, a short stroll from Chesil Beach

A beautifully restored old coaching inn with a vibrant, bustling atmosphere, great food, friendly staff and super-swish bedrooms

Linger over a fine breakfast and olive grove valley view, borrow a bike, take to the Francigena pilgrim trail, explore medieval Anagni

A remote, rustic place for a digital detox - wildly romantic and perfect in summer with the doors open. Children can play in safety

A rather grand, opulent house with warm owners, interesting furniture and art and some fine Renaissance architectural elements intact

A lovely spot in an AONB for this bright and airy converted barn, one of four round a gravelled courtyard on a 600-acre estate

Simple rooms on a spotless farm, delightful hosts, delicious fruit tarts at breakfast on Sundays. The perfect stopover en route to Calais