The Painted Palazzo

A former noble residence commissioned by Conte Sacchi, this 19th-century villa in the Lomellina countryside is as close as you'll get to sleeping inside a museum. The living room preserves its original frescoed walls and painted ceilings in full, and the home also houses the archives and art collection of two working artists – the effect is quietly extraordinary. When you're ready to come up for air, the restored attic holds a yoga studio, massage room, and cinema room. Tucked between Milan and Turin, this region offers exceptional local cuisine and stunning landscapes to discover – and both cities are less than a two-hour drive when you fancy a day trip.

Home truths:
* Children and well-behaved pets are welcome to join you here.
* The super king-size bed in the second bedroom can be split into two singles upon request. The third bedroom has antique beds – they measure 120 x 185cm and 140 x 170cm, making them slightly larger than a single but shorter than a double.
* Two of the bedrooms are linked together via a sitting area, making it feel like a small suite.
* This home is set in the small village of Sant'Angelo Lomellina in the rural Lomellina region. You'll want a car to explore the surrounding area and reach the nearest towns and amenities comfortably. Parking is provided.
* This home is part art gallery, so there are expensive pieces and ornaments dotted around.
* Some of the bathtubs have hand-held showers.
* Four hours of daily cleaning are included with your stay. Your host also provides bathrobes, slippers, and luxury toiletries to help you settle in.