La Buia Villa

A hugely welcoming place where you’re spoiled from the moment you arrive. Twenty years ago the villa was in desperate need of a facelift – who better to take on the challenge than an artist and a garden designer? Inside, imagine beamed ceilings, terracotta floors, harmonious colours and paintings gracing the walls; outside, the views are splendid and the extensive gardens with their tempting pathways and secret corners are glorious to roam. Your private pool, fringed by olive trees, rosemary and lavender, is over a little bridge from the gallery above the cosy sitting room; a charming touch. Upstairs are three stylish bedrooms, each with their own character – choose fun, bright ‘Rossellini’ for the supreme view – and all have spotless ensuite bathrooms. Gather in the spacious, light-filled kitchen/dining area, with all a cook might need, breakfast on the terrace and plan the day ahead; hop in the car to visit nearby medieval towns, stroll through hamlets and peruse the local markets. Return to a dinner of locally grown Umbrian cuisine (book ahead) then sit out and sip a glass of Sagrantino under a starry sky.