San Donato

Character and contemporary comfort come in equal measure at this lovely villa in the heart of Lazio’s Etruscan region, but within very easy access of the neighbouring regions of Tuscany and Umbria. Perched on a hilltop and encircled by olive trees, meadows and sunflowers, the house is framed by an avenue of cypress trees, its stone walls mellowed to a soft honey tone, its gardens screened with neatly trimmed hedges. Inside, the villa’s innately rustic features are enhanced by a mix of modern and antique furnishings. Hand-made tiles and high ceilings, crossed with chestnut beams, contrast with travertine marble bathrooms; and a kitchen, equipped with all mod-cons, meets the dining room through a huge stone arch.

Linking indoor and outdoor living, a loggia runs the width of the house, forming al fresco living and dining ‘rooms’, from which to enjoy the uninterrupted views. Steps lead down from here to the infinity pool in its lawned surround, and to a games room and convenient shower room on the lower level. Just 4km from shops in Grotte di Castro, San Donato is 5km from swimming, sailing and fish restaurants at Bolsena Lake. Two other nearby attractions are the UNESCO World Heritage site of Civita di Bagnoregio. Known as the 'Dying City', this medieval town sits atop a constantly eroding volcanic rock. And cut from volcanic stone the hilltop town of Pitigliano gives wonderful views of the wild Tuscan landscape. Locals call the town Little Jerusalem.

This villa was included by The Times in January 2019  as one of the best villas in Italy for rental.