Castello di Reschio

Check-in happens in an old shepherd's hut at the end of the drive before you roll up to the sand-coloured castello itself. The Palm Court, a greenhouse-esque lobby-come-bar of tall palms, lime-green sofas and a grand piano, is the social heart, and there's a live pianist most evenings. Al Castello offers fine dining on its sunset-facing terrace, while Alle Scuderie, a ten-minute walk via the equestrian centre, does pizzas and grilled meats under the arches of the former stables. The infinity pool is perfectly-placed among the umbrella pines with its own bar.

Each room is different at Castello di Reschio, the curves and corners dictated by the medieval building's contours. Every single object, from bespoke furniture to antique portraits and the occasional Roman bust, has been placed by Count Benedikt Bolza himself. Expect rich terracotta floors, beamed ceilings, freestanding baths and a complimentary minibar of local snacks and drinks. No TVs though, just Bluetooth speakers. Grander suites have private gardens or rooftop terraces, but the entry-level rooms are still a generous 30 square metres.

The estate alone could fill a week! Ride one of the dressage-trained Spanish purebreds with master trainer Antonello Radicchi, forage for herbs with a resident expert, or spend a day truffle-hunting with a truffle dog and his handler. There's tennis, cycling, swimming and fly-fishing for the active - and the Bathhouse and Palm Court pianist for those less inclined. Beyond the walls, Assisi, Cortona, Gubbio and Perugia are all within an hour's drive, with Siena, Florence and Montepulciano manageable as longer day trips.