Surrounded by sprawling Umbrian countryside, this villa is everything we want from an Italian villa. The interiors are rustic and homespun – think antique furnishings, a farmhouse-style kitchen and lovingly restored timber ceiling beams. Wrought iron beds with crisp white sheets promise a blissful slumber and the open-plan living area makes entertaining a breeze. Our favourite addition, however, is the sauna – it’s exactly what you need after long walks through the nearby valleys.

Outside, you’ll find fragrant gardens bordered by olive groves and fig trees. Let the afternoon slip by from the comfort of a poolside lounger before rounding up your group for an alfresco feast on the pergola. If you fancy a change of scenery, take the short drive over to the charming city of Perugia for its Gothic cathedral housing Renaissance paintings and frescoes. Enjoy a glass of something refreshing in a quaint cafe then pore over 3000 works of art in the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria.

Home truths:
*Due to the location of this home, we recommend hiring a car to get the most out of your stay
*Parking is available on the premises
*This home consists of two buildings – the main house and an annexe
*The owners live in the house next door but are incredibly conscious of your privacy and do not share any outside spaces with guests
*Your host can provide a cot and high chair upon request
*Heating costs are not included