Once a rural ruin, La Poderina has been transformed into a magnificent holiday home that playfully combines antique furniture with contemporary Asian design touches and African artworks.

Not one, but two dining-rooms ensure plenty of space for lively nights making up for lost time with friends and family, and for those who just wish to relax, the cosy snug, complete with a roaring fireplace, lends itself well to an afternoon of me-time. The show-stopping gardens have been created by the renowned landscape artist Luciano Giubbilei, one of very few gardeners to have won three gold medals at the Chelsea Flower Show. Dreamy views overlooking the bewitching hills of Siena (where you can go truffle hunting) are also part of the package. From £8,930 a week. La Poderina  sleeps up to 10)