Albergo Villa Marta

Former hunting lodge, now an elegant country hotel surrounded by a serene Renaissance garden, 5km outside Lucca

This large cream-coloured 19th-century villa stands at the foot of Monti Pisani near the historic town of Lucca, with glorious views across the valley. The villa has been restored and expertly managed by Andrea Martinelli and his wife Alessia, and the tone is set by them: a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere reigns throughout.

You enter up two flights of steps on either side of the front door and into a soothing reception area flooded with light. Soft chenille sofas, high exposed ceiling beams and original Tuscan Tessiere floors are complemented by antique furniture and subtle trompe d'oeil paint effects. You find a comfortable sitting room and bar / breakfast room with French doors leading to the garden terrace, and 15 serene rooms. Outside, the verdant garden features a lovely swimming pool, lounging area and classic Tuscan olive and cypress trees. Art exhibitions, painting and cookery courses and wine tastings are also on offer.

Highs

• Outstanding service: smooth, friendly, professional
• Fresh, light and gracious rooms
• Beautiful garden with pool, loungers and wonderful views of wooded hills
• Dinner and lunch by arrangement on the terrace - good home cooking and no need to drive
• Value for money compared to most Tuscan hotels of a similar standard
• Nearby Lucca, a charming, relatively untouristy, Tuscan town with bags of character and culture

Lows

• It's 5km outside of Lucca, so a car is recommended though not essential
• The classically tasteful interiors may be a little restrained for some