Villa Rizzo Resort & Spa ★★★★

"What is the fatal charm of Italy? What do we find there that can be found nowhere else? I believe it is a certain permission to be human, which other places, other countries, lost long ago." - Erica Jong

The countryside surrounding Villa Rizzo Resort & Spa **** is the kind of that draws you out for long walks. Here are hills that only look better for mist, ancient chestnut groves and wide open views that encompass the whole valley. My husband and I had set off on the open road down the Amalfi coast, visiting age-old ruins and eating fabulous gelato in teensy harbour towns. However, the highlight of our trip was undoubtedly this establishment, which epitomised the Italian good life.

Upon arriving at the Rizzo Resort and Spa, you can feel the atmosphere shift. A small road through enchanted chestnut groves prepares you to enter a different place, a place which plays to different rules and beats to a different drum. This is the domain of nature and nurture. The farmhouse has a dignified air and wonderfully preserved period features. We were welcomed warmly and shown to our room, which was spacious, airy and rustic yet elegant, set on the ground floor with a slice of the lush gardens all to ourselves. I loved the country-chic design, with pretty floral sheets that chimed with the blue curtains. The walls were white and the floor cool terracotta tiles, whilst a cosy settee was perfectly placed to allow you to gaze out of the open doors or window, out to the elemental view outside.

The hotel's communal spaces are just as tranquil and handsome. We loved the warm colours of the breakfast terrace, with a woven canopy above providing shade from the morning sun. Inside, the dining hall, with its dark wooden floors and chairs, arched ceilings, while walls and table clothes, cut an impressive figure, especially in the candle light. The lounge, with its grand piano and Renaissance paintings had a sumptuous elegance to it; it was the kind of place you resonate with once you've soaked in a hot tub for an hour and indulged in a massage.

It may have felt like we were in another world but the hotel has a great Wi-Fi connection, so we could update our loved ones with news of our travels. It’s safe to say that we returned home refreshed, renewed, and very much in love with this gorgeous region of Italy; and you will too.