Of course, Italy’s fertile interior has more than scenery to savour: you’ll find freshly-grown local produce in the country markets across Tuscany, as well as numerous seasonal festivals celebrating everything from Chianti’s fine wines to steaks and chestnuts. It’s a taste of authentic Italy that you can take back to your cosy rural retreat for a meal bursting with traditional flavours

Umbria, sometimes known as ‘the green heart of Italy‘, offers similar delights. Not only is the countryside a feast for the eyes, it rewards you more literally with traditional delicacies such as truffles and cured meats, as well as its own collection of world-famous wines.

And after a day of exploration, your Simpson Travel luxury villa will be waiting for you: the perfect countryside retreat. Hand-picked for the quality of its finish and furnishings, and its tranquillity, your rural hideaway gives you the space to relax and re-charge, close enough to shops and restaurants to make life easy, secluded enough to give you the gift of perfect peace and privacy.

Then you’ll be ready to emerge again, all set for another adventure in the beautiful Italian countryside.