Celebrities and the cream of Italian society flock to the Fonteverde Hotel, not least for the rather wonderful spa guru Dipu, of whom Kate Winslet and Penelope Cruz are fans. Elsewhere, this former aristocratic residence is charming and refined, surrounded by acres of parkland and olive groves.

The facilities

First and foremost is, of course, the spa. A complete set of thermal and beauty treatments, massage and relaxing therapies is available to both guests and the public: this does mean that in high season the place can get rather frantic. There's also a lovely restaurant serving hearty Tuscan fare alongside strict calorie-controlled regimens for the health-concious.

The rooms

The Fonteverde holds 80 bedrooms and suites within its 17th-century walls. Each is decorated with typical Tuscan panache - expect warm tones and furnishings that err on the traditional side. Many rooms have gorgeously carved ceilings - try and get a suite with private terrace (divine countryside panoramas) if you can.