Tiepolo is a converted farmhouse on an olive estate 11 km west of Lucca, Tuscany. The surrounding area has a rapidly-growing reputation for its wine, and is also notable for excellent olive oil and fine restaurants.

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Although the location is peaceful and rustic, it is by no means isolated: there is a good, traditional trattoria a kilometre away, and a fine restaurant and a village with shops are within two kilometres.

The garden has splendid views of the hills and mountains that seperate Lucca from the Parco di Migliarino, Massaciuccoli and Lago Puccini, and a small road leads from the house to the lake. One of the composer’s favourite spots, this large nature reserve is a mecca for birdwatchers with a varied population that includes flamingos, waders, woodpeckers, endangered ospreys and marsh harriers.

On a clear day it is possible to see the sea and the islands in the distance.

Your holiday can be spent enjoying the nearby cultural centre of Lucca, birthplace of Puccini, or travelling to Florence, an hour away by train or by car. The chic beaches of Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi are 30 minutes away, and the Cinqueterre, with its fabulous views, walks along the cliffs and boat trips, is one hour north up the coast.

Admirers of Renaissance sculpture should also consider a visit to the awesome marble quarries of Carrara, the source of Michelangelo’s pure white marble.

To the north is the beautiful mountainous area of the Garfagnana with its rushing streams, waterfalls and ancient stone villages. The Garfagnana has a hearty, peasant cuisine of stews and soups — just the ticket after a day hiking in the mountains.

Airports: Pisa - 25 km, Florence - 60 km, Rome - 382 km, Milan Malpensa - 326 km, Milan Linate - 276km.