La Cerqua

The 400-year-old walls of this Marche farmhouse conceal an elegant renovation: open plan living and clean lines, comfortable doubles, spacious en suites and a sleek kitchen with all the gadgets you’ll need. Barbecue buffs – head straight for the terrace to cook over wood on the sculptural barbecue-come-pizza oven.

Underfloor heating keeps the communal space cosy, where chic sofas are gathered round an imposing traditional fireplace. Shelves are filed with books and games – sneak away to the snug for a little privacy. Green-fingered Jane and Martin designed the terraced garden; jasmine and wisteria drape over the pergola and cypress trees pierce the sky.
Embrace the tranquillity of your hilltop escape; float in the pool, stroll to the local bar or bike up into the hills. Take your time over breakfast on the sun-soaked terrace with stunning views of hilltop villages, and round it all off with a game of Italian bowls on the bocce pitch.