New to Special Places to Stay: Italy - 2013

Hear the rooting of wild boar and the odd splash of the pool. For those who love fresh air, great food, and the sweet hills of Umbria

Sink into the folds of a secret Umbrian valley fringed with young vines and olives. Discover an ancient church and farmhouse, transformed...

A fascinating restoration, a harmonious retreat from the heat, and owners whose enthusiasm is infectious – what are you waiting for?

Classic-modern luxury, a charming young hostess and a peaceful setting – perfect for breakfast-lovers, wine buffs and all the family

Step through a door in an old wooden gate to discover a courtyard garden on the edge of town close to golden sands

Within sound of gondoliers, all you would want from a luxury hotel in an intimate palazzo of real Venetian pedigree…hard to believe it’s B&B

Come for the serene views, the beautiful meals and the music festivals in summer. Madeline’s village hotel is a treat for all the senses...

Gracious Florentine hospitality, elegance and comfort, gazebo breakfasts, a flower-filled garden with pool and views of olive groves

A beautiful little collection of trulli near the Valle d’Itria – restored with flair and with gardens, woods and pool

Rooftop views of a Baroque town from heavenly flower-filled terraces and a truly scrumptious breakfast from Elisabetta make this one a must

Gaze on Umbrian hills as the children play, watch the fireflies dance at night. Dine fabulously in Gubbio – or here. Sociable-family bliss

A 15th-century Venetian palazzo, lovingly restored with stylish rooms overlooking the Grand Canal and a designer's insight into the city

Dreamy, divine and close to Borghetto, a romantic escape for nature lovers, city folk... with swans, geese, herons and frog chorus

A B&B with a soul, walks to thrill the heart. In these peaceful hills northwest of Como, views challenge you to keep your eyes on the road

Beautiful Noto is 4 miles from the Ionian Sea, and this creative renovation, with lush garden, stands above the throng. Heaven in Sicily

Rustic, sophisticated, relaxed, charming… ancient Follonico is all these things, and gazes on the loveliest hills in Tuscany

In an leafy quarter of central Milan, 2 inviting apartments run by generous Jane. Perfect for families and romancers

You will fall in love with this very special Tuscan agriturismo between the mountains and sea: peace and simplicity prevail