Beautiful B&B in idyllic setting, with natural salt water pool and plenty of relaxed communal spaces

A higgledy-piggledy 13th-century house with view-filled terrace in the heart of a medieval village with cobbled streets and painted shutters

Delightful little antique-filled cottage with large walled garden and an allotment near Versailles. Gardeners will be happy

A fine romantic setting for this delightful bolthole with sea views – nature lovers, walkers, dreamers and the simply loved-up will be happy

A pretty upside-down cottage, formerly a dovecote, lovingly restored with sustainability the focus

It's not often you get an entire hamlet to yourselves but here it is – 10 traditional stone houses with big communal spaces in rural bliss

A comfortable 1700s converted barn in pretty countryside, perfect for those who like walking, fishing, cycling, tennis and golf

An incredible living museum, dedicated to the history of Sicily and the arts. Stay in the main house or in a cottage in the fecund garden

1800s coastal watchtower meets organic farm at a small hotel with a proud restaurateur and sea views from high mezzanine rooms

Come to be cossetted in this 300-year-old Burgundy farmhouse with rose garden, sheltered pool and convivial Dutch owners

Welcoming and friendly place in a non-touristy area of the city within walking distance of the centre and with a fabulous roof terrace

Leave crowds behind for this charming stone farmhouse in the olive groves of rural Umbria – bring friends and have it all to yourselves

A pleasing (not very little) place to stay in the heart of a wood within the unspoilt countryside of the South Downs National Park

High in the Tuscan hills, at the end of an avenue of cypresses, surrounded by parkland and acres of olives... a 13th-century dream

Genuine hosts, fabulous food, a swimming pool and a private speedboat for exploring the coast; a sandy beach is a ten-minute walk away

Come for huge skies, birds and wildlife, rare flora and fauna, precious pingo ponds and a comforting retreat from the hectic whirl

You’re wrapped in parkland here and close to the coast, gardens and war memorials. A treat of a stop-over for foodies

Delightful, rustic retreat (offering B&B too) for families, romantic couples and singles. Food, views and owners are lovely