Pianaura Suites, Marano di Valpolicella, near Verona, northern Italy - Explore & Book
"You’ve probably drunk its wine, but chances are you’d struggle to pinpoint Valpolicella on a map. And good thing too, as it means this trio of leafy valleys, tucked away in the hills above Verona, has remained blissfully tourist-free. It’s a well-kept secret that’s worth exploring - not only for its grapes, but for its stunning landscapes, its sleepy medieval villages, and this rather special B&B.Standing sentry over a terraced hillside, it occupies a pair of tall 17th-century farmhouses that have been lovingly restored by owners Mara and Filippo. One is now their dream home; the other, a guest block housing 2 spoiling suites and a lounge. Inside, all is white and bright, with beamed ceilings, shuttered windows and a stylish mish-mash of contemporary furniture and flea-market finds. Outside, lawns burst with lavender, poppies and fragrant herbs, and easy chairs sit under pergolas whose gauzy curtains billow in the breeze. If you want to stay put, find a secluded spot among the flowers and gaze out over the vines to the silvery mountains glinting on the horizon. Head out and you can hike through meadows, picnic by waterfalls or dip into the sights of Verona and Lake Garda. And of course, there are plenty of wineries to visit, too. Highs A rural setting away from the crowds, but well-placed for exploring; Verona is a 20-minute drive in one direction, Lake Garda is a 30-minute drive in the otherA sensitive transformation of beautiful old buildings, with chic interiors, restored stonework and an ingenious new tunnel linking the towersPerfect for romance and relaxation: four-poster beds, a spa room for massages and yoga, and an outdoor hydrotherapy poolMara and Filippo are exceptional hosts - and their golden retriever Seta will quickly become your new best friendEverything has been designed to make you feel special - complimentary carafes of local wine, jars of homemade biscuits... Lows No lunch, dinner or bar (breakfast is served in the lounge area), and the nearest restaurants are a drive away; you'll need a carNo children under 14 are acceptedIt's accessed via a single-track lane with a vertical drop on one side. Be prepared for some careful manoeuvring if you meet a car coming in the other directionCredit cards aren’t accepted, so you’ll have to bring plenty of cash" - Abi Dare
