Monte Orello Calm

Perched on Monte Orello above the Gulf of Bagnaia, this hilltop villa on Elba serves up panoramic sea views from every bedroom terrace – the kind you find yourself returning to at every hour of the day. Below, a secluded pool sits tucked among cork oaks and fragrant pines, while the vine-shaded dining terrace – complete with a wood-fired pizza oven – makes evenings feel effortless. Portoferraio's Medici fortresses and harbour are fifteen minutes away by car, and Elba's sandy beaches are a short drive down the hill.

Home truths:
* The pool is about 70 metres from the villa and reached via forty-four steps through the trees – worth bearing in mind if you have guests with limited mobility.
* You'll reach the villa via an unpaved track of around 400 metres – fine for most cars, but leave the low-slung sports car at home.
* The sixth bedroom sits in a separate area accessed through the laundry and gym and is of a simpler standard than the other bedrooms.
* The villa is not entirely fenced, so if you're bringing pets, keep that in mind.
* For those with reduced mobility, there's a ground floor bedroom and bathroom here.
* There's free parking for up to eight cars on the driveway.
* Your host can provide a high chair and cot for little ones upon request – just bring your own cot linen.