Villa Palmitia

A classic country townhouse between Turin and the Alps – this noble family villa exudes centuries of elegance. It’s a 17th-century stroll from the main square in Cumiana’s charming town centre. Step through gates to a pretty garden presided over by a fine magnolia tree and a former hay barn, to be greeted warmly by Signora Sacchi. An architect whose two children grew up here, she will happily advise on all things local, from eateries to historic buildings, to ski resorts – and can easily arrange bike hire. You breakfast, Italian-style (special diets, eggs etc no problem if arranged in advance) at one table outside or in the impressive frescoed and wood panelled living/dining room. Trompe l’oeil country scenes decorate the hall and stairwell. Up on the first floor are two comfortable suites  with garden views: ‘Camelie’ has a wrought iron queen-sized double and twin sofa-beds, and a big walk-in shower; ‘Margherite’ has a double and a twin room, a separate living room and a big granite-tiled bathroom with tub. Both have vaulted ceilings, terracotta tiles, antique furniture, attractive lighting and fabrics. Lovely.