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The “Lover’s Inn” moniker dates back to the hotel’s 14th-century origins. The large, apartment-like accommodation has a refined rustic style under the more formal brick loggias surrounding the courtyard.

A fairy-tale hotel, hewn from a 13th-century castle and outbuildings immersed in the green hills of a nature reserve. Relaxation is the order of your stay, with an absence of TVs and telephones in the huge, country-styled rooms and apartments.

Luxury rooms and an excellent restaurant (see II Falconiere, Cortona) make for a perfect countryside retreat. Just a 15-minute drive from Cortona, yet immersed in the greenery of olives and vines. And a full complement of amenities are at hand.

Medieval castle turned spectacular hostelry. Though far from civilization, with a fine restaurant and pool, it feels less removed than many a rural retreat. Apartments are also available.

Isolated villa on a thickly forested stretch of Chianti roadside. Spacious rooms feature beamed ceilings and (for those on the front) access on to two large terraces. There’s a pool, trails through the woods and excellent set dinners on the terrace in summer.

Around the core of a 12th-century castle, this is the Chianti’s most luxurious inn. It sports a room for wine tasting, an outdoor pool and a plethora of antiques. Corner rooms, with their lattice of ceiling beams, are best.

A medieval hamlet rebuilt after World War II. Now a select few can rent its 23 perfectly rusticated rooms and suites installed throughout the village. Guests gather around a fire in winter or the pool in summer.

This Renaissance villa just 7km (4 miles) south of Florence became a hotel in 1953, since when everyone from Churchill to Madonna has lodged here. Tennis courts, a pool and a Tuscan restaurant overlooking the Arno justify its celebration. Closed 15 Nov–Mar.

This elegant villa was once the court of the Duke of Lucca. The rooms are large and comfortable, and the swimming pool and garden make for a relaxing getaway.

An 1850s farmhouse outside Chiusi overlooking the small lake, with eight large country-styled guest rooms (ask for a lake view). It has a great Tuscan restaurant.