Italy

A sparkling house for two overlooking azure waters, starry skies and Stromboli’s light show - that’ll do nicely grazie

An oh-so-special B&B in Palermo's ancient heart. This city at the edge of Europe, with its Arab-Norman-Byzantine heritage, is fascinating

Simple, traditional and generous - go walking, help friendly hosts with haymaking, relax with a view - the coast and Siena an hour away

Technically in Florence yet immersed in the Tuscan hills: easy comfort, country character, warm wonderful hosts, heavenly views

A real gem set back from the hustle and bustle but perfectly placed to explore the city's many charms

Absorb the flavours of the region at this small hotel, with the warmest of welcomes and delicious dinners from brothers Andrea and Roberto

An immaculately restored 1500s palazzo, filled with history, art, antiques and books in the buzzing heart of a charming town

Italian style marries Californian comfort, with views over hilltop towns, vineyards and the majestic Sibillini mountains beyond

Foodies will love the irresistible cooking - along with local wine and a typically Tuscan setting. Bedrooms are pretty

Rooms in an old palazzo in the historic centre of town, with a swimming pool, restaurant and café, and lovely beaches a short drive away

Discover warmth, tranquillity and wonderful breakfasts behind the handsome old door of this luxurious small hotel in Lucca

Stay a while... lulled by lapping sea and fragrant hanging gardens - cool, light, balconied, classic, intimate, unpretentious

Generous simplicity and organic farm cooking in this rustic Tuscan farm with library, yoga, family apartments and natural lily-dotted pond

You’re in the middle of all the action in these luminous cliff edge apartments in an old family palazzo – walk everywhere

Dreamy, divine and close to Borghetto, a romantic escape for nature lovers, city folk... with swans, geese, herons and frog chorus

An ancient farmhouse transformed into a peaceful place to stay with lovely gardens, a swimming pool and delicious organic food

Come for much charm, peace, sunsets, infinity pool, sauna and gym in this history-steeped countryside retreat, for lovers of tranquillity

Two enviable hideaways on a cobbled street high on a hill, both with stunning views next to Galileo's house, the Villa Bardini and gardens