Best places to stay in Italy with wonderful views

Casale Volpe, Marche

If you’re looking to enjoy some of the best views in Italy, you’re in the right place. This gorgeous farmhouse is in an idyllic Marche setting, and you can see out for miles and miles from almost every room.

There’s a big friendly table for seasonal dinners, an outdoor oven for homemade pizzas, and bedrooms with views of the rolling hills. One of our favourite spots has to be beside the elegant saltwater pool, which is an oasis of peace and serenity. After a sunset dip, it’s back to the deckchair where you can listen to the birds, with a crisp glass of local wine in hand.

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Residence Marta, Como

This 18th century house is off the beaten track with outstanding Lake Como views from so many angles. There’s complete silence with only chatting walkers passing on the Greenway path, and the communal garden is a peaceful retreat of olive trees, roses – and salad vegetables that you’re welcome to harvest. There are three villas in one here, and you can take them all for a special extended family get-together.

Marta is the biggest, spread over four floors and sleeping eight it’s elegant and airy from top to toe; find vintage features, cool bedrooms, handmade oak units in the kitchen and a proper big cooker set in the old stone fireplace. Spill onto private terraces, dip in your plunge pool, watch the sun setting over the lake – aperitivo in hand.

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Cima Rosa

This 15th-century Venetian palazzo overlooks Venice’s Grand Canal and has been lovingly restored over the years. You’re in an enviable position with water views from most views: it’s a gorgeous place to relax with a cup of coffee and watch the world go by. The rest of the day is yours and your hosts are happy to point you in the direction of all the locals’ favourite spots. Head to antique shops, museums or explore on a gondola if you’re after something more traditional.

Back inside, deeply satisfying bedrooms have cool turquoises and dark chocolate tones, perfectly set off by polished marble tiles and original parquet, exposed beams and well-chosen antiques. One has a bath tub to disappear into, another a renovated wash basin from the 1700s and all have inspirational views across the canal where the palazzos are lit up at night.

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Malandrino Cottage, Palermo

Prepare to be wowed by the views from this romantic Sicilian villa overlooking the hills and sea. Apart from one house opposite you’re on your own in lush Italian wilderness, but town is a 40-minute walk away for restaurants and provisions. Inside, you’ll find beamed ceilings, stone walls and lovely furnishings.

The kitchen has all you need to cook up meals to enjoy on your stunning sea view terrace, and you’ll receive a welcome bottle of local wine. Swim in your private pool, look out for wildlife, venture into Cefalù or seek out sandy beaches. Bring binoculars for honing in on the views and the many birds and wildlife you’ll spot – maybe even a wild boar.

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Sesta Terra Resort, La Spezia

Coastal views, mountain air and a retreat into nature on the Italian coastline. You’re in the big outdoors with all the perks of a hotel. Choose from a night under canvas or wood; the lodges and cabins come with an outdoor deck and coastal views. Inside you’ll feel very comfortable. Wander the olive and oak trees and breathe in the scents of lavender, sage and thyme from the herbal garden. Breakfast doesn’t get better than mountain views with local fruits, homemade jams and breads.

Return daily to your canvas lodge or wooden cabin with sandy toes and salty hair – head to the restaurant for wine and fresh basil pesto gnocchi. You’ll deserve it after a day exploring!

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