New to Special Places to Stay: Italy - 2013

Two lovely places to stay - come for much charm, peace, sunsets, infinity pool, sauna and gym in this history-steeped countryside retreat

Gaze on Umbrian hills as the children play, watch the fireflies dance at night. Dine fabulously in Gubbio – or here. Sociable-family bliss

Rooftop views of a Baroque town from heavenly flower-filled terraces and a truly scrumptious breakfast from Elisabetta make this one a must

You will fall in love with this very special Tuscan agriturismo between the mountains and sea: peace and simplicity prevail

A real Roman treat of a place - step straight out into a colourful thrub of twisting streets, trattorie, boutiques, fountains, monuments

Within sound of gondoliers, all you would want from a luxury hotel in an intimate palazzo of real Venetian pedigree…hard to believe it’s B&B

This eco-friendly farmhouse in the hills of Fiesole is 10km from Florence. Good company, superb views of Tuscany, and food for the soul!

Dreamy, divine and close to Borghetto, a romantic escape for nature lovers, city folk... with swans, geese, herons and frog chorus

Welcome to a stunning small-scale holiday village in sloping gardens with views, set around a medieval castle high above Lake Como

Classic-modern luxury, a charming young hostess and a peaceful setting – perfect for breakfast-lovers, wine buffs and all the family

Hear the rooting of wild boar and the odd splash of the pool. For those who love fresh air, great food, and the sweet hills of Umbria