Celebrity holiday fixer and Italy specialist Merrion Charles, who counts Jude Law and Stella McCartney among her A-list clients, says she has seen an increase in the number of people wanting to stay outside cities in remote pockets – but still be within reach of restaurants and culture.

She recommends classic Tuscan villa La Poderina, a revamped ruin surrounded by olive groves, only 5km from Siena, and also within easy reach of several small villages.

Sleeping 10, the property has a pool, wine cellar, orchard, pizza oven, cook service and daily housekeeping. Any excess calories can be worked off in a gym with Pilates reformer set-up, and in-house yoga.

Designed by landscape artist Luciano Giubbilei, two time Chelsea Flower Show Gold medal winner, the gardens are a delight.

How: A seven-night stay costs from £893pp (10 sharing), excluding flights. Visit merrioncharles.com or call +39 0585 92098.