STABLE END COTTAGE, HALESWORTH, SUFFOLK
Elegantly converted, with plenty of wooden beams left in for a suitably rustic feel, this former stable and tack room has a bedroom with four-poster, widescreen TV and DVD and internet connection. Suffolk’s Heritage Coast is just a short drive away and the cottage is on the outskirts of the pretty market town of Halesworth. It has a walled garden with barbecue and patio heater. Sleeps 4-6.
Bonus: The cottage comes with its own beach hut, in nearby Southwold.
Drawback: Cottage adjoins the owner’s home.
Book it: A week from £395 (01986 873124, www.stable-end-cottage.co.uk).
BORGO SAN PIETRO, CORTONA, TUSCANY
A collection of 16th-century farm buildings and stables, Borgo San Pietro is now a cluster of self-catering two-bedroom apartments, which share a large pool with beautiful views of the Tuscan countryside. Each apartment is traditionally furnished and has its own patio table and chairs for alfresco suppers — although the trattorie of Cortona are just ten minutes’ drive away.
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Bonus: Ideally placed for exploring Tuscany and Umbria.
Drawback: No shops within walking distance.
Book it: From £275pp, including flights and car hire, through Magic of Italy (0870 8880228, www.magicofitaly.co.uk).