La Villa Hotel, Near Asti, Piedmont, Italy - Explore & Book

"This noble palazzo, the former Villa Daina, had been stripped of its vineyards and left empty and almost derelict when Irish-Essex couple, Nicola and Chris Norton, came to the rescue. Ask to see the ‘before’ pictures, and they will show you a gutted shell of a building, a field of mud. But that’s all in the past. Today’s villa is pale primrose with blue-grey shutters, slightly shabby in a chic Italian sort of way, and set in a fragrant rose garden, lawns edged with lavender and rosemary, shaded by a row of Robinia trees. The former cascina is now a smart reception-lounge-bar, all raw brick, leather and votive candles, the odd dash of contemporary art. For the Nortons this is home and they are ebullient hosts. There will be a glass of prosecco in your hand before you have time to catch your breath. Sip your drink under a flower-decked pergola or by the pool, where you can see rolling acres of Barbera, Moscato and Cortese vines and, on a clear day, a glimpse of the Alps. Highs Dreamy rooms and suites - a light and airy mix of romance, comfort, character and country viewsThe cool blue pool - a wonderful place to slack out on a sunny afternoonA chilled house-party vibe, and a perfect spot for weddings or big family reunionsGreat location in the rustic heart of Piedmont’s wine county; an easy drive from Alba, Asti and Acqui Terme, a daytrip from Genoa, Turin and MilanOn the subject of local wines, Nicola can talk for England, or even Italy - step into her sala degustazione and get the grape-by-grape low-down on Piedmont’s vineyards Lows Not suitable for young children (a perk for some); those aged 10 or over pay the full adult rateYou will need a car to get here and to get around" - Lesley Gillilan