Hidden Gems

A smartly-refurbished old coaching inn sitting by the river and run with an emphasis on fair trade, sustainability and excellent local food

Tranquil B&B in a house built by the Templars in the 14th century. Go hiking, biking or wine-tasting nearby, or simply relax by the pool

A 18th-century house with pool in a small town with friendly owners and a tropical garden of banana, fig and, of course, frangipani

A lovely, rambling family house chock full of interesting, well-loved things and with a wrap-around garden on the edge of a pretty village.

Fall asleep to the sound of the sea in your dreamy thatched cottage, one of 6, right on the beach for those head-clearing walks...

Come for a traffic-free medieval hamlet in sleepy Maremma with easy-going hosts, a beautiful garden and views over the valley to the hills

Bask in the beautiful Basque country at this friendly B&B in the village, with family-run restaurant for delicious suppers

A pleasure to stay in such a dreamy château surrounded by a beautiful terrace, elegant gardens and parkland, a lake, river and waterfall

This fine old inn stands in blissful peace, a field or two back from the coastal path, with cosy rooms, delicious food and a rustic style

Luxuriate in style at this central Lecce palazzo with gorgeous rooms, delicious breakfasts (lunch & dinner by arrangement). Walk everywhere

Escape to your own snug bolthole above a beautiful hall. Creative village community, tasty breakfast delivered, come and go as you please

A lovely apartment with old-fashioned charm, a shared swimming pool and interesting views across the village from your own private terrace

You’re right in the midst of Portuguese life here: cafés, shops and restaurants buzz and there are panoramic views from the roof terrace

A warm, gracious townhouse in a small town, run by delightful new hosts. Explore chateaux, canoe on the Loire... cycle to Angers!

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

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

Cosy bolthole for two in a charming market town on the edge of Dartmoor – stroll to restaurants and shops or explore the moors

A delightful hostess and gem of a village home, from grand piano to organic potager and pool. Market-fresh meals pair with Beaujolais wines