For couples of the single traveler, Rondine is a perfect choice. The compact upstairs apartment has everything you could possibly need -- a well equipped kitchen, comfortable seating area and en-suite bedroom -- indoors and a spacious patio area with splendid mountain views. The real bonus is the garden and pool, both of which also offer spectacular views. The garden has a hammock for lazing in the shade on hot days and the pool is sparkling clean and inviting. Joe and Carolyn live next door in the adjoining house but have their own patio with separate aspect, so guests have the twin advantages of somebody on site to offer help and advice but also complete privacy. I should also mention the two adorable dogs, Django and I forget the other name who are also unintrusive but charming.

I stayed at Villa Miramonti the first week of September 2013. The weather was warm and sunny which I understand is usual at this time of year. The villa is hidden away on a quiet hillside between the towns of Servigliano and Santa Vittoria in Matenano - both lovely small towns with bars, shops and good, inexpensive restaurants. You can find everything you need a short drive away and yet feel quiet and secluded at the villa.

The Rondine apartment was spacious and comfortable with high ceilings, parquet floors, shuttered windows and a very comfortable bed and pillows. The kitchen was equipped with everything I needed. The large balcony had sun loungers as well as table and chairs; perfect for eating outside or just relaxing and looking at the view.

The gardens and pool are well tended and have a spectacular view of the mountains, hilltop towns and sunsets. Evening drinks while watching the sunset were a highlight of my stay.

I was looking for a relaxing getaway and found it. I can recommend staying here if you want to self cater in peaceful surroundings but also want to sample some lovely meals out or visit the nearby vineyards. The villa is an excellent base to explore a relatively unknown part of Italy which retains its original character. It is less than an hour from the sea ad about the same distance from the mountains and lakes in the Sibillini National Park. There is also a vast archeological park at Urbsalvia. This was a highlight for me with its original frescos and underground sister.