Podere Marella

This handsome 1700s organic winery sits in front of an ancient wood with views over marching vines and the distant peak of Monte Amiata. Climb the grand staircase up to a wisteria-wreathed loggia and step into your generous first floor home-from-home.

Snuggle up on comfy sofas in front of the open fire, relax in big bedrooms (three suites have their own sitting rooms, all are en suite) under beamed ceilings. Outside there’s masses of space: roam the estate, play tennis, fish on the lake. Spend sunny days by the pool which has a kitchen, barbecue, dining table and chairs, a loo and shower – everything you need to stay outside all day. Eat under cover as the sun sets.

Head for Trasimeno beach, 6km; borrow a bike and pedal down woodland trails; head to numerous restaurants serving delicious local dishes; cookery classes, wine tastings, a private chef, sailing on Trasimeno can all be arranged but need to be booked in advance.