La Casa in Collina

THIS LITTLE PIECE OF PARADISE is set in the hills of Marche. La Casa in Collina (meaning the house on the hill) looks across to the snow-laced peaks of the Sibilini Mountains.

This one-time 18th century farmhouse – long abandoned until owners Kim and Peppe Burelli arrived on the scene – has been transformed into a boutique little hideaway complete with a scenic 40 ft infinity pool with spectacular 360 degree hilltop views. Original stones and shuttered windows have been mixed with the best of contemporary comforts to winning effect.

Inside, La Casa in Collina is all understatedly chic. Pale tiled floors, creamy sofas and wide beds are matched by Philippe Starck bathrooms with bathtubs for two, with LCD televisions and DVD players.  All this, and you’re just 30 minutes from the beaches of Riviera delle Palme on the Adriatic.

It's a perfect place to unwind. Stretch out on a sunlounger, let off steam in the fully equipped gym, or relax by the fireplace with a book and a glass of local vino.

Beaches and ski slopes

The smartly done out restaurant serves traditional dishes prepared with local ingredients – expect delicious pastas, fish and home-made soups – and there's an impressive wine list.

One of Italy's hidden gems, the Marche region remains blissfully crowd-free. La Casa in Collina lies within easy reach of the city of Macerata – famous for its open air opera festival – the market town of Ascoli Piceno  and the beaches of the Adriatic. You can even be on the ski slopes of the Mount Sibillini national park within an hour – though we'd find it hard to tear ourselves away from that stunning pool terrace.

© Room for Romance