La Darbia, Lake Orta, Italy

Lake Orta is quieter and more tranquil than its glitzy neighbour, Maggiore, but just as beautiful. The dreamy island of San Guilio, home to a 13th-century basilica and convent, sits at its centre. La Darbia is a collection of 20 stylish apartments forged from a traditional farm estate with local stone; every one with a spectacular lake view.

Food is a big part of a stay here – breakfast baskets are delivered each morning; olive oil, wine and cheese tastings can be arranged along with cookery classes; La Cucina offers classic and lesser-known regional dishes on a terrace with sweeping views. This is a great choice for families, with a heated pool, play area and zipline and watersports available on the lake.

Doubles from £257, B&B (00 39 389 311 3813; ladarbia.com)