New to Special Places to Stay: Italy - 2013

Step through a door in an old wooden gate to discover a courtyard garden on the edge of town close to golden sands

A beautiful little collection of trulli near the Valle d’Itria – restored with flair and with gardens, woods and pool

Gracious Florentine hospitality, elegance and comfort, gazebo breakfasts, a flower-filled garden with pool and views of olive groves

Two lovely places to stay - come for much charm, peace, sunsets, infinity pool, sauna and gym in this history-steeped countryside retreat

Classic-modern luxury, a charming young hostess and a peaceful setting – perfect for breakfast-lovers, wine buffs and all the family

Relaxed country-chic worthy of a photo shoot at these beautifully turned-out apartments in deep countryside... gaze on heaven from the pool

Come for the serene views, the beautiful meals and the music festivals in summer. Madeline’s village hotel is a treat for all the senses...

A 15th-century Venetian palazzo, lovingly restored with stylish rooms overlooking the Grand Canal and a designer's insight into the city

Rooftop views of a Baroque town from heavenly flower-filled terraces and a truly scrumptious breakfast from Elisabetta make this one a must

In off-the-beaten-track Tuscany, 2 peaceful apartments in a former haybarn, both carefully renovated with antique furniture

An unaustere Franciscan retreat - heaven for sybarites and foodies. The luxuries are understated, the cicadas sing, the views reach to Capri