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Just steps from Piazza Grande and the cathedral, the family-run Duomo adds rustic accents such as wooden dressers and cast-iron bedsteads to its otherwise comfortably modern decor. There’s a small courtyard for al fresco breakfasts in summer.

In 1997 this 17th-century palazzo was opened as an exclusive hotel, with baths sheathed in the marbles of this mining town between Forte dei Marmi and Viareggio.

In the centre of this quaint town, eight modestly-sized rooms mix the contemporary and the antique – engraved headboards, wooden dressers and exposed walls vie with modern baths and glass table tops.

The best of both worlds: a gorgeous beach-side villa, plus access, via an under-the-road tunnel, to the modern hotel Augustus, with its pool, restaurant and live music club.

Everything an island retreat should be. The terraces of most rooms enjoy expansive views over the owner’s vines and olives to the wooded headland of Sant’Andrea. You can walk these paths to the resort’s beach or to a secluded cove. Rooms are simply furnished, tile-floored and comfortable.

Tiny, much-requested hotel in Mauro and Nadia’s own home (Mauro may even entertain you with his accordion). Perched atop St Catharine’s convent, the whitewashed rooms are quiet, and two have views of the Duomo.

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.

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 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.

The cream of Arezzo’s sorry hotel crop, overhauled twice (in 1995 and 1999) to provide all the amenities in modern and eminently comfortable rooms. It’s pretty central, and there’s a terrace for breakfasts in warm weather.