A pleasant amble around the grounds uncovers a number of hidden treasures, including a small cave with a natural spring, which once served as an ancient laundry. Another cave has been converted into a cantina with a maturing cabinet for pecorino cheese and a superb selection of wines and olive oils.

And, whilst the holiday accommodation benefits from all modern comforts, its rich history can still be glimpsed in a number of bewitching details, such as exposed wooden beams in the openwork plaster.

There’s plenty to do in the immediate vicinity too. Indeed, La Concia makes an extremely convenient base for day trips or a stroll in one of the charming Italian towns nearby. Alternatively, you can simply laze in a hammock and enjoy the tranquillity of the natural surroundings and the convivial hospitality of Italian-Dutch owners, Davide and Maartje,and their daughter Beatrice.

The apartments (suitable for 4-5 people)

There are two spacious and atmospheric apartments (68 m2) in the main house. They each comprise two bedrooms, a living room with kitchen and a bathroom with shower. They both additionally benefit from a private entrance and a large, romantic terrace with dining table. The kitchen and bathroom are fully equipped, and the apartments’ thick ancient walls maintain a pleasantly cool temperature during the summer months. Guests can make full use of the sun beds in the garden or escape from the heat in the hammock, strategically strung under the shade of olive trees.

The cottage (suitable for 2 people)

Close to the main house is Cipres - a light and airy, two-story detached cottage for 2 people (42m2). The ground floor of this modern and tasteful holiday home comprises a spacious, well-appointed, live-in kitchen with terracotta-tiled floor. The bedroom and bathroom with shower are located on the upper floor. The cottage is surrounded by a pretty terrace with a pergola and dining table on one side, and a shaded seating area with stunning views over the surrounding countryside on the other.

The guest residence (suitable for 2 people)

The guest residence is situated next to the main house. A small studio, it benefits from a comfortable double bed, private bathroom and a cosy terrace. It amply accommodates two people and is ideal for combining with an apartment or the detached cottage (for two couples, or a family with older children for example). There are a couple of extremely good restaurants close to La Concia, whilst the local village, Codiponte, with its convenience store, bar, post office, butcher and greengrocer, is a mere 5-minute walk. There are also a number of crystal clear swimming streams nearby - perfect for cooling off in the heat of the day! And, just 40 minutes away is the stunning Ligurian coast, with its selection of sandy and rocky beaches and bustling towns, including Lerici (where you can dine on fresh fish), Portovenere and Fiascherino. You can also choose to visit the lovely island of Palmaria or the Cinque Terre national park where hiking and snorkelling can be enjoyed.

Tip: Visit La Concia in May or June when countless fireflies put on a truly spectacular light show in the garden.