Floor-to-ceiling black-framed windows and a sensitive renovation have turned this 16th-century Umbrian dovecote tower into one of the region's smartest stays. Behind the stone tower, the jagged cliffs and town of Orvieto loom, while in front, the rolling hills stretch before you. Interiors meld old with new. Flagstone floors and antique furniture sit alongside steel ceiling pipes and geometric prints. As one would expect in a tower, there are several spiralling staircases – as well as gawp-worthy views. Push open the sliding doors in the grey, country-style kitchen and step out onto the terrace. A built-in barbecue and wrought-iron table overlook the Italian countryside, while a large vegetable garden and fruit trees provide the freshest ingredients. Continue down to find 1.5 hectares of garden with Etruscan origin and the swimming pool, which was once an agricultural fountain. Forget about any form of work, now all you have to worry about is which spot to pick around the water, with the rush of the nearby brook providing background music.

Home truths:
*The home has several steep spiralling staircases which are not suitable for people with mobility issues
*The second bedroom has a mezzanine level where a further two single beds are found – there is no door separating them from the double bed
*We recommend having a car in this area – there is parking for three vehicles at the home
*The swimming pool is open from the last Saturday in April to the first Saturday of October
*Heating and electricity costs are not included in the stay and are charged according to consumption
*City taxes are not included in the price of the stay and will be collected in person upon check-in