Aria of the Palms

Dating back to the early 1900s, you can see the turn-of-the-century architecture in the stone steps between terraces and wooden-shuttered windows. It’s a veritable playground for those that seek relaxation in the terraced gardens, where succulents fill the perfectly positioned flower beds. Spend days floating in the sleek, modern swimming pool with its integrated Jacuzzi. Lunch can be taken at the round table on the lower terrace, while dinner can be set up on the upper terrace at the more formal spot. Sun loungers are shaded by parasols and there are two hanging egg chairs for reading in the sun. From here, you can catch a glimpse of the sea with the Pontine islands floating in the deep blue.

Inside, it’s an ode to grandeur as rooms are filled with gallery-worthy sculptures and striking paintings. Art deco chandeliers in the luxe living room hark back to the villa’s origins and you can take in that sea view from the comfort of plush sofas. Parquet flooring intersects with the original salvaged mosaic. We love the light-filled kitchen with its green splashes of trailing botanica. Or, perhaps, the original vaulted ceiling in the basement bedroom with its baby grand piano in the corner.

Location-wise, you’re in the coastal town of Circeo where a long stretch of beach is just a short walk away. In the other direction, the ancient, walled centre of town awaits with a handful of local trattoria in the shambling streets.

Home truths:
*At capacity, two guests will be on the sofa bed in the living room
*Weekly linen change is included with a stay here
*There is only air conditioning in three of the bedrooms
*Your host can provide a high chair and cot for infants, just ask
*The gardens are terraced and you'll need to climb a few stairs to reach the entrance of this home, so it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility
*There is plenty of private parking at this villa, secured behind a gate
*Though there isn't a dedicated desk here, the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace
*You'll have your own private entrance here