Relais La Magioca

PLUCK FRESH FRUIT from the orchard, wander through the olive grove, doze in the hammock.  Nothing to disturb the view but vineyards and the distant skyline of Verona.

Hidden in the depths of Valpolicella country, Relais La Magioca is a mellow stone farmhouse that's as tranquil as it is solidly built. Its handsome facade – green shuttered windows, creeper covered walls and shady terrace – leads the way to rooms furnished with antiques, deep sofas and rich rugs on polished floors. Help yourself to drinks or leaf through the books in the large and airy sitting room where music floats in the background.

La Magioca's six bedrooms, in warm tones of yellow, ochre and rust, are elegant and beautifully styled.  Bold artworks, Tuscan linens and flowers from the garden add luxurious and personal touches. All are different (one is named after actress Greta Scacchi, who brought her whole family) while luxurious bathrooms are done out in marble, mosaic and travertine stone.

Plum cake and coffee

Sink into La Magioca's four-poster suite, have a decadent  soak in the garden's outdoor hot tub (there will soon be an infinity pool, too) or relax downstairs by the candleglow of the fireplace. Breakfast on delicious bread and plum cake, fresh fruit and sizzling coffee.

There's a delightful flower-filled patio with shady and sunny spots for enjoying a cooling drink.  The grounds stretch away prettily, past fields where the family cultivate vines, olives and fig trees.

While Verona, Valpolicella country and Lake Garda are on your doorstep, you might find it hard to tear yourself away from the garden with its hammock and pretty Romanesque 13th century church.This is an utterly hospitable place to stay, and the owners clearly love looking after their guests.

© Room for Romance