Evergreen Oleander

All we need is a harpsichord to strike up a tune and a trumpeter to announce our entrance and this home could trick us into thinking we were back in the 1700s. Built in 1690 for a notable Perugia family, the plot was recently painstakingly renovated to bring it back to its former glory. The whole building is impressive but the beautiful living space stands out with its sherbet lemon yellow walls, marble fire place and ornate chandelier. You might find yourself craning your neck upwards to gaze at the gorgeous frescos that decorate ceilings, originally painted by Mariano Piervittori in 1850. The surrounding parkland is equally as dreamy as the interiors, with an abundance of oleanders, roses, fruit trees, and a structured garden. Follow the path round to come to a swimming pool with views of the Umbrian hills. On balmy summer evenings, swap the grand formal dining room, with its oil paintings and wooden floorboards, for dinner on the terrace - there's a second kitchen a few steps away to make feasting even easier.

Home truths:
*The swimming pool is open from the last Saturday of April to the first Saturday in October
*A complimentary three-hour housekeeping service is included on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout your stay
*A pool and garden caretaker will be on the premises