La Calla

The house sits in a small complex with two other houses, but you get sole use of the pool and gardens, from which you can see down the valley, over the village and up to the surrounding hills – it’s a glorious spot. Inside is homely with original pictures, antique furniture, plenty of books and two sitting rooms with comfortable seating, so even on a rare grey day you’ll feel relaxed. The kitchen is big and cooking will be a breeze; you’ll find a bottle of something local and you’re welcome to pick fresh vegetables from the garden in season.

Doze in the greenery with the scent of lavender, seek shade under the pergola or mature trees, slide into the pool with that view. There are two tables, one by the kitchen and another by the pool where you’ll also find a barbecue for long, happy summer evenings.

You can walk from the house through olive groves and hiking in the Monti Rognosi nature reserve is sublime. Anghiari is five minutes by car.