We were absolutely bowled over by the comfort and convenience of villa where it seemed every need had been anticipated. It was spotlessly clean and in superb condition and we were given clear instructions as to where to find it. The views were out of this world.

Set quite high up the mountains you have many miles of countryside and mountain ranges, as well as the village of Montefalcone high up on a sheer cliff, to gaze at endlessly. The swimming pool is in the foreground, and this we found extremely popular. It was sparkling clean and well maintained, including during our visit, and was much used. There is a very nice shaded are nearby. There is a charming garden on two sides of the property, and a large drive at the front.

Whenever possible we ate on the terrace where there are big umbrellas to provide shade.

The dining area in the kitchen comfortably seated all 10 of us, and we asked the recommended cook to do our dinner one night, which was absolutely delicious. We would highly recommend "Le Logge " in Smerillo, where we ate twice, and the highspot of the week was the most amazing meal at the Agrituristo "La Conca" in Ceresola. Everywhere we went we were made most welcome and have never eaten such good food for a whole week!

The younger members of the family really enjoyed visiting the local towns and villages, while those not quite as active were happy to read and enjoy the views.

Wine was extremely cheap and it is so easy to eat wonderful lunches with the local breads, cheese, prosciutto, fruit etc.

There was a large television in the cool, comfortable sitting room. The kiitchen was very well equipped with plenty of cutlery, crockery and glasses, and an efficient dishwasher. There was ample fridge space and a washing machine. The downstairs cloakroom was very useful with small children in the family.

All the bedrooms were comfortable and 2 were exceptionally spacious. Each en suite bathroom provided all that you needed - in some cases also a view which might have kept you in the bath for several hours!

You need to be fit enough to cope with stairs, and a car is pretty essential, but we would highly recommend it to anyone we know. It suited us - aged between 3 an 78. We have particularly enjoyed visiting le Marche during our last 2 Italian holidays. It is a really beautiful and seemingly unspoilt region, perhaps a bit less "touristy" than Tuscany and we are certainly hoping to go to the villa again.