In a stunning spot near Civitanova Marche sits villa Luisa. It’s sweet, green shutters, climbing flowers and rising cypress trees give every impression of a bona fide rustic retreat. What a surprise then, when inside you’re met with an airy and carefully manicured, modern abode! Bright whites and creams are coupled with delicate grey tones for a look that’s en vougue. Its furnishings are sleek and minimalist, their simplicity never detracting from their quality and comfort. The overall affect is one of ‘zen’. You’ll feel yourself slipping effortlessly into that relaxed mind-set that only a holiday can bring, from the moment you step through the door.

If an Italian kitchen is the heart of a home, this ultra-modern design won’t disappoint. It takes style and delivers function, with all the mod-cons you need to whip up a delicious Antipasti spread. Opening out on to a lovely dining terrace, you can take your time over your ‘primo’ and ‘secondo’ courses (when in Rome, after all) in the most stunning surrounds.

Also on the ground floor are not one, but two lounge areas. One with open plan dining, a plush corner-chaise sofa and an internet TV, it’s a sociable space that makes quality time with your loved ones all the easier.

Upstairs you’ll find three of the four bedrooms, with the last set slightly apart in an externally accessed annex. All air-conditioned with ensuites and internet TVs, the same stylish and comfortable furnishings give a sense of serenity and a little piece of privacy among the affable shared spaces. The only possible breach of the peace? Who gets the room with the balcony and that incredible morning vista.

Luckily even the most fiery Italian spirit puts family first, and it’s ‘all friends again’ gathered around the large private pool. Gently sloping down the hillside sitting pretty below the villa is where you’ll find it. It turns out Luisa is just as fine and well-equipped outside as in. The white stone terrace is strewn with lovely, lounging spaces to sit, as well as a shaded pergola. Set back from the pool, a separate purpose-built building with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows houses a small gym, table football and table tennis, plus a WC and changing room. Beyond the pool area (if you can be tempted away) - the ultimate luxury - your own floodlit tennis court! For a gentle rally or a mini holiday tournament, what could be more ‘ace’?

With a blissful base to explore from come endless opportunities for exploration. Swap undulating hills for the coastal town of Civitanova Marche. With beautiful sandy beaches, calm Adriatic waters, a shop-lined promenade and lovely gardens around the main town square, it’s a wonder it’s as undiscovered as it is. Food lovers will be welcomed with open arms by locals incredibly proud of their signature dishes, while history buffs can get their fix at the nearby Medieval hilltop town of Civitanova Alta. Leisurely, low key and utterly idyllic, villa Luisa is right at home here - and you will be right at home at villa Luisa.