Of all the countries in the world, Italy is perhaps the most magical. From the magnificent mountains and lakes of the north, through enchanted walled villages and splendid cities, to the sun-baked beaches and islands of the south, it really is the perfect European holiday destination.

Whether it's culture, gastronomy, cutting-edge design or simply the art of dolce far niente – carefree idleness – that you’re after, nowhere else on the continent will deliver so much. And of course, if you are a Carbon Footprinter – and who isn’t these days – it doesn’t involve a long haul flight to another hemisphere.

Italy is redolent with history, whether it’s the wonderful canals of Venice, the frescoes and spires of Florence or the Roman ruins of Pompeii. Tradition remains a big part of the nation’s culture: neighbours meet in the piazza simply to have a chat, laundry is line-dried, even in the big cities, and, as evening falls, the passeggiata, a gentle stroll (slow! think slow!) is still made through the main streets of most towns.

Little wonder therefore that Italy has been a magnet for tourists since the days of the Grand Tour. Today’s traveller is becoming ever more discerning however, always on the look out for accommodation that is as stunning and individual as the country itself. One company with a very impressive portfolio of rental properties in Italy is Indigo Lodges who specialise in combining the world’s most beautiful designer homes with what I hope will be an unparalleled level of service. A whistle-stop tour of the country reveals some of their best properties.

If you are eager to discover art, history and architecture in Florence Indigo Lodges offers several choices in the area. First up was the restored 16th century Suite Ponte Vecchio in the heart of the city. Of course, as you would expect due to the location, this is not the best of the bunch for relaxation. However, the whole of Florence will be at your fingertips – ideal for the first time visitor. Alternatively, if you are after something a little more tranquil, the beautiful Villa Rosita is just a ten-minute drive away. Nestled on a hill and overlooking the most beautiful scenery that Tuscany has to offer, this aristocratic manor dates from Medicean times and is located at the end of a dramatic driveway of ancient cypress trees. With its six bedrooms, private pool and ballroom, it combines state-of-the-art facilities with the splendours of the Italian Renaissance.

No trip around Italy is complete without a trip to Rome, heart of the ancient empire. If you have never visited this city then it really is worth a trip on its own merits. Perhaps uniquely in the modern world, the ruins of ancient civilisation stand shoulder to shoulder with sophisticated hotels and restaurants, creating a fabulous juxtaposition of times and cultures. Situated right in the centre of the Eternal City is Suite Princesse. Occupying the two top floors of one of the most prestigious palaces in the city, this sumptuous apartment is just a few minutes walk from the Piazza di Spagna and the fashion boutiques in Via dei Condotti. Painstakingly restored by its owners, this magnificent property boasts three elegant bedrooms, which once welcomed such illustrious guests as Napoleon III and Pope Pio VIX. Indigo Lodges are rightly very proud to be able to offer this accommodation, I doubt there is anything else like it available in Rome, if not Europe.

But, of course, luxury travel to Italy doesn't have to be all about stylish cities - far from it. After heading to Sardinia we find our way to the postcard-picturesque Villa Volpe. Situated in the charming resort of Porto Rotondo, this gated property is large and spacious with five bedrooms. Sitting on a peninsula, it boasts direct access to a private sandy beach with shower and changing room.

As you can see, Italy has much to offer, so much so in fact that it can appear a little overwhelming. Luckily Indigo Lodges’ clients can rely on the company’s highly experienced team, all of whom are based in the locality and have a background in the hotel or restaurant industries. Their detailed knowledge of a particular area means they can offer unbiased and indispensable advice to help the clients find the most perfect property in the most suitable location.

What’s more, unlike other travel companies where the team in each property remains the same throughout the season, Indigo Lodges specifically selects a bespoke team for each client based on their individual needs and requirements.

The moment guests arrive, the staff is on-hand to ensure the most attentive service in the most discreet manner. Everything has been thought through, from the way luggage is quietly ushered to the room to a favourite drink being poured on arrival.

Very few travel companies could respond to a client’s request for breakfast at 4am and dinner at midnight. And how many other organisations would spend over 30,000 euros to prepare a property for its guests, organise a magician for a children’s party or even arrange a massage by an Olympic team’s own therapist?