Hidden Gems

Come for gloriously independent B&B in your own cosy retreat with a belter of a breakfast brought to your door and plenty of local walks

A 200-year old townhouse on a charming cobbled street with stunning views from the terraces over rooftop Olhão and down to the sea

An immaculately restored 1500s palazzo, filled with history, art, antiques and books in the buzzing heart of a charming town

A cosy, courteous, family-run hotel with ‘chocolatines’ and cherry jams at breakfast, Basque dishes at dinner, and gorgeous rolling views

Five sumptuous suites arranged around a sunny internal courtyard inside an ancient Augustinian monastery with original clock tower

Thatched crofter’s cottage with comfortable, peaceful bedrooms. Tea and cake on arrival, walks up Bredon Hill and the Cotswolds to explore

Charming 15th-century farmhouse near Montrésor and Loches with immense lawns, orchards and a fabulous pool

Atmospheric manor with heaps of history, sumptuous bedrooms, a cornucopia of quirky finds, an open-hearted host – it’s a treat to stay here

An interesting historic townhouse filled with art and antiques, in the old part of Amantea, near shops, restaurants and beach

Tucked away in a tiny gem of a village and clustered around its own château, this delightful 17th-century building is a joy to discover

Ideal for families: pool, tennis and golf at the hotel with beach and yachting nearby. Comfortable bedrooms and a terrace for outdoor dining

A serene apartment for 2 in the old fisherman's quarter in Olhão, close to amazing beaches. A special place for nature lovers and foodies

Rooms in an old palazzo in the historic centre of town, with a swimming pool, restaurant and café, and lovely beaches a short drive away

A beautifully designed B&B for foodies, cyclists and walkers in a village surrounded by trees just 15 minutes from the coast

Come for a watery setting by the crystal clear canal (with canoe!) and an elegant house packed with interest, lovely art, much comfort

Understatedly stylish with French antiques, sofas and balconies overlooking town and gardens. A grown-ups' retreat, 200m from the ocean

A gorgeous house in a buzzy Somerset village, celebrated for its excellent local produce, with a pub, bakery and market garden

A 17th-century stone mansion within the ancient walls of Avignon. Walk to cafes, watch the shows at the Festival, chat with convivial hosts