Villa Lena

Midway between Pisa and Florence, high on a hill circled by dense forests, marching cypress trees and silvery olive groves, this sumptuous hotel will ensconce you happily in laid-back luxury. They make it easy to pitch up and stay put: float in one of two pools, unbend in a yoga class on the deck, eat farm to table meals in the smart restaurant, stroll in glorious countryside.

Artist retreats are hosted in the main 19th-century stately home while you stay in superbly restored farm buildings that fan out across the huge estate. Every en suite bedroom, apartment and private villa (both with their own pools) are smart and stylish with bags of space. And there’s more: a library, games room, home cinema, dedicated work spaces if you must check your emails.

Zip down to Palaia (30 minutes) on a bike borrowed from reception, climb to the top of Toiano Vecchio for panoramic views, take a day trip to Pisa (40km) or Florence (60km).