Umbria - A 15th century farmhouse with a swimming pool (available from June) on a hill just outside Perugia - in open countryside, but a stone's throw from the historic centre of the city. Cooking lessons. Villa Nuba, Perugia
Villa Catureglio, close to Lucca, was originally a 15th century fortified tower and has magnificently proportioned rooms, furnished with a mixture of contemporary and antique Italian furniture. Sleeps up to 16 people. Private pool. Adjacent cottages can sleep a further 20 people. Villa Catureglio, Lucca
Agriturismo La Mora, an organic farm just outside Assisi in Umbria, has five vacation rental apartments offering accommodation for 2+1 to 6+2 guests. Marvellous views, large swimming pool and superb playing/sports facilities including mountain biking and horseriding. Agriturismo La Mora, Perugia
A central apartment in Siena, halfway between the Duomo and the Basilica of San Domenico. Beautiful views and modern furnishing. Casa Siena, Siena
Sleeps 2 to 5
La Sabbiona holiday farm is set among vineyards on the hills around Faenza. The comfortable farm offers bed and breakfast accommodation with superb home cooking, excellent local wines, a pool to relax in and a lovely base to explore the region of Emilia Romagna. La Sabbiona Farmhouse Holidays, Ravenna
Tucked away on a pretty, little farm on the border between Tuscany and Umbria, Convento di Novole offers accommodation in a 400-year old church and convent. Three holiday flats with beautiful, natural surroundings. Convento di Novole Holiday Flats, Arezzo
Sleeps 2 to 10+
