At the gates of a country estate, two quirky hexagonal lodge houses with private outdoor seating and acres of grounds for walks and picnics

A small, charming house with ravishing sea views within walking distance of a bohemian coastal village at the foot of the Teix mountain

Cross an ancient stone bridge to a 1790s estate cottage, completely on its own down a little-used green lane and with the river rushing by

A beautifully-restored Georgian farmhouse at the end of a lane, with ancient pastures and orchards filled with wildflowers and streams

A dramatic house with stylish interiors – designed to bring the outdoors in so you feel wrapped in nature. Great for families or friends

An ancient inn, spruce and restorative, in a picture-perfect village with open fires, tasty food and stylish, comfortable bedrooms

At the heart of fascinating Palermo, splendid aristocratic hosts welcome you to their historic family mansion filled with heirlooms

You have your own entrance to a private wing with a garden and an elegant sitting room. Bedrooms are beautiful and breakfast scrumptious

Steeped in history and romance, with a great big sleigh bed and open fires, is this 14th-century defence tower above the river Tweed

This bright, roomy apartment with a glorious outside terrace is a wonderful spot to land if you like walking, cycling and wine tasting

Shed your urban cares here with a gorgeous living space, woods and meadows to wander and stunning views of The Black Mountains

A charming 17th-century cottage in a quaint village with views and the owners' pub, farm shop, Wellness Barn and brewery just a short walk

Another bright, beamed and history-filled place to stay on the smart Upton Cressett estate with walks from the door and much comfort within

A nicely priced inn on Shaftesbury's high street with a warm contemporary style and some excellent food – fine local walking waits

The privacy of a big terraced garden, a small decked pool and attractive, clutter-free rooms - close to harbour town bustle and restaurants

A characterful coaching inn in a lively market town surrounded by manicured countryside - Chester's mighty Roman walls are close

Converted barn with the most welcoming owners – the garden and pool are all yours; explore a less touristy part of the Dordogne

Fabulous Drôme gîtes: contemporary in old stone buildings, uncluttered, fresh. Take all 5 for a party, laze by pool, doze in lavender