Special Places to Stay - More than a bed for the night

From a distance it looks like this old farmhouse could be a small stepping stone for a giant leap into the Sibilini Mountains; which is exactly what it is. Just as good, however, is relaxing on the terrace after breakfast contemplating a dip in the pool or a stroll amongst the lavender and pink apple trees that give the place its name. The welcome from Pauline and Rob is all warmth and Australian ease, and their restoration has added a little New World to Old in the form of underfloor solar power heating and prairie-sized showers in slick en suite bathrooms. She's a great cook too if her onion tarts are anything to go by; try to get here for truffle season. The house is divided into three levels, guests entering through French windows on the ground floor the communal sitting room, which, in winter, is just the place to mellow with a book by the fire. Three bright rooms lead off from here, each with spectacular views and handsome antique furniture and one keeping a pretty handmade quilt from home. Connoisseurs will love the walking, the food festivals, the micro opera… there's even a jousting tournament.