Description Truffle and Vine: Cossano Belbo

Perched among the UNESCO-listed Langhe hills, this house is rooted in one of Italy's most celebrated wine landscapes – vineyards roll in every direction, and a thirty-minute drive puts you in Alba, the white truffle capital of the world. The panoramic pool is the natural heart of long summer days here, with open views stretching across the hillside. Come evening, the rustic kitchen-diner earns its keep – a long table, the whole group gathered, and the kind of unhurried dinner that defines a trip to Piedmont.

Home truths:
* If you're travelling with a baby or toddler, your host can provide a cot. You'll need to request it in advance.
* The traditional decor here might not be to everyone's taste.
* You'll need a car to make the most of your time here. The villa sits in a rural hillside setting with no shops or restaurants within walking distance, but on-site parking is free and the roads into Alba, Barolo, and Asti are straightforward.