Tenuta Montemagno Relais & Wine

The marketing manager, Marco and his passion and knowledge of olive oil. Secret and special because they can't grow olives in the area. However, Marco is one of only 30 experts in Itlay. Ask him all about olive oil. Ask him to teach you how to taste the artichoke and tomato skin. Incredibly interesting and new experience.

Ask any staff members at Tenuta Montemagno why they love it here so much and they'll say one word - "nature". You don't have to ask too many questions to see, feel and taste why.

Nestled into the hills, this 16th Century farmhouse is surrounded by villages, medieval castles, rolling hills, sunflower fields, hazelnut orchards and vineyards. On a clear day, once the morning mist has cleared the hills open up to reveal the snow-capped mountains in the distance. The views are simply sublime and the beautiful terrace area with saltwater infinity pool provides the perfect spot to enjoy the sights and be at one with nature.

The area is rich in winemaking and although the Tenuta Montemagno estate is 100 hectares, only 17 hectares are planted with vines. Grapes are handpicked, native yeast is used and efforts are made to use low levels of sulphates. The philosophy; to produce fewer but more interesting wines whilst respecting and protecting the land.

Each night, the tasting menu invites you to try wines each paired carefully and expertly with the locally sourced dishes. Diners are encouraged to smell, taste and appreciate the uniqueness of each wine and the ground it was grown from. Pairings are both unexpected and exciting. The tasting menu changes every night and during our stay it included melt in the mouth scallops, tuna wrapped in soft beef and homemade duck pasta.

Inside the farmhouse, the natural colours, sunflower decorations, grape carvings and lavender-infused pillows bring the outside world inside, helping guests feel relaxed and closer to nature. My favourite feature was the ceiling to floor windows in the bedroom letting light stream in and opening out to a gorgeous balcony.

If you can tear your eyes away from the scenery, try a massage in the vineyards, a whirl on an electric bike or wander into a surrounding historic village nearby. All is well worthwhile but you won't be judged if - naturally - all you can manage at Tenuta Montemagno is gazing into the distance and the occasional dip in the pool.