Whatever happened to the traditional B&B?

Choosing a DIY holiday doesn’t mean you have to make your own bed! There’s nothing better than the freedom of travelling from city to city, region to region and finding some bespoke accommodation along the way. The B&B is a welcoming, friendly bolthole for a night or two, or a week long respite in often tranquil, picturesque surroundings offering traditional home cooked food.

Le Logis de Puygâty in Charente, France (holidaylettings.co.uk/18344) is a 15th century fortified manor, once home to an advisor to Francois I. Le Logis has been restored in a contemporary, rustic style and offers four ensuite bedrooms. Walks around the property will take you to prehistoric caves, ancient water sources and hamlets left untouched by time. A perfect romantic get-away or retreat for history buffs! Prices from £80 per night.

Le Joli-Jardin in Belesta, Midi-Pyrenees, France (holidaylettings.co.uk/14794) is a former 18th century relais de poste. 45 minutes from Carcasonne Airport in a wonderful area of France ideal for walking or cycling holidays. Surrounded by lakes and mountains visit the Route of Cathars or the Chateau of Montsegur nearby and if passing in winter test out the slopes of Mont d’Olmes. Prices from £34 per room per night.

Tregoney House, Mevagissey, Cornwall (holidaylettings.co.uk/14966) is a family friendly, Grade II listed house built in the 19th century for a sea captain. Set in the heart of Mevagissey fishing village, there is a real seaside spirit. The last week of June is Feast Week and there is a nightly carnival along the harbour. The house has three ensuite bedrooms and prices start from £25 per room per night.

Torrino del Sole, Citta Sant’Angelo, Marche, Abruzzo, Italy (holidaylettings.co.uk/11098) lies just inland of the Adriatic coast with stunning views of the Gran Sasso. Ideal for fishing, sailing, walking, mountain biking, golf and in the winter months, skiing on Maiella Mountain. There are eight ensuite bedrooms and access to a kitchen and utility area is included. It’s a short, 4km drive to beautiful sandy beaches and there is a riding school nearby. Just 20km from Pescara Airport, prices start from £238 per week.

Casa da Vida Nova, Alcantarilha, Portugal (holidaylettings.co.uk/18196) is a restored quintinha dating back to 1845. Extended, in-keeping with the traditional style, it is set in an acre of grounds and offers two ensuite bedrooms and an outdoor pool. A tranquil location within the triangle of Alcantarilha, Porches and Armacao de Pera, there are 15 golf courses within 30 minutes of the house. For a touch of history, medieval Silves is nearby and definitely worth a visit! Prices from £35 per room per night.

For more information visit Holidaylettings.co.uk.