In an outstanding area for lovers of food and wine, here are 3 beautiful boltholes in the Alto Douro, the oldest wine region in the world

A small yet elegant place for couples or small groups to enjoy the open countryside, rest, join a cooking course or book a massage

An enchanting escape immersed in nature yet only 40 minutes by train into the Eternal City for art and history-filled days

Cast yourselves away to this beautiful island and a bright, spacious apartment with a rooftop terrace bang in the middle of the town square

Once a shooting lodge, this stand-alone big building was part of a medieval estate and you can still see the grassy mount and dungeon tower

Up in the Cévennes, this big, beautiful family house has superb views, a fine kitchen, lots of space and masses to do and see

Elegant house deep in the countryside with wild garden, dreamy pool, and bags of vintage charm. A promise of peace and perfect solitude

Come for sea air, independent shops, great places to eat and this quirky cottage with plenty of room and a sunny walled garden

On top of sand dunes, this bright and airy cottage has glorious views, walks are lovely and you can bring your dog

A mix of bold colours, modern art and vintage finds give this classic French mansion bags of personality

A much-loved Tuscan villa restored to elegance: dinner on the terrace, frescoes, rose garden, a small spa…and Florence a 20-minute drive

Very private and comfortable rooms with their own entrances at this generous B&B with glorious gardens and views to the Black Mountains

Stylishly simple cottage in the heart of the old fishing port of Méze, within easy stroll of seafood restaurants and sandy beaches

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

Sun-dappled walks along the romantic avenues, big bedrooms, breakfasts inside or out, a laid-back atmosphere and great markets nearby

A beautiful villa with a medieval tower surrounded by formal gardens, gentle slopes of perfectly maintained vineyards and wooded hilltops

Grand Scottish home with stunning views & a tea-and-shortbread welcome. Historic castles, local festivals, golf, East Lothian beaches abound

Chat long with gentle hosts over home-grown dinners; see stars above, walks, rivers and wildlife all around. Rustic comfort in rural Burgos