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
Self-catering accommodation in the Lucca countryside, Tuscany – this agriturismo is on green hills surrounded by woods and olive groves. Biodegradable and biological products. Azienda Agricola Biologica Nico, Lucca
Sleeps 2 to 7
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
Offering Sicily rental accommodation, in a coastal setting, close to Trapani, this old farm provides a really charming way to enjoy this lovely Mediterranean island. Nearby is a very pretty beach, with lido attached. Agriturismo Baglio Del Marchese, Trapani
Sleeps 2 to 10
A holiday cottage near Lucca, Tuscany – Il Nido. This is the perfect place to relax and read those books you've been putting off all year, and surrounded by the beautifully green rolling hills of Lucca. Il Nido, Lucca
Sleeps 2 to 5
Veneto - Spend your Italian holiday on an Italian organic farm, at this accommodation in the Euganei Hills nature reserve. This farm is 50km from Venice, and offers bed and breakfast and apartment rental accommodation. Terre Bianche Farmhouse Vacations, Padua
Sleeps 2 to 10+
A lovely villa rental with garden on Sicily’s coast. The villa is close to Agrigento, and guided tours and local activities can be organised Villa Paradise, Agrigento
Sleeps 2 to 7
Casa Viaro, Padua - this charming 17th century house offers holiday accommodation for up to 8 guests in the countryside of the Veneto, northern Italy. A peaceful private setting within easy travelling distance of Padua and Venice. Casa Viaro, Padua
Sleeps 4 to 8
