Palomba is a traditional Le Marche farmhouse which in former times used to supply the locality with wine. The name of the local area, Palombare, stems from the Italian word for wood pigeon or dove (palombo) and indicates that this was a place where hunters would gather to shoot the birds as they passed over: fortunately the hunters have disappeared but the doves still linger, as does an atmosphere of great peace and tranquillity.

Purchased in 2003, the house has been renovated over a period of two years to create a home for us and a holiday apartment for up to five people. In the apartment the feel is of rustic elegance, integrating modern conveniences with an essential simplicity. The floors and ceilings are in traditional terracotta with exposed beams, the walls are whitewashed to give a light and airy feel, and the furnishings are simple and comfortable.

The apartment is completely private and has its own separate entrance. The accommodation is on two floors. The ground floor comprises kitchen/dining-room, living-room, bedroom (twin beds), and a ‘loggia’ for relaxing in, with balcony and sofa-bed. Stairs from the living-room lead up to a double bedroom and the bathroom (with shower). The living-room has a woodburning stove for winter use or cooler evenings, while the upper floor (bathroom, bedroom) has central heating.

The kitchen is well-equipped, and is provided with culinary basics. It leads out on to a shady veranda with a table for eating al fresco. In season, we will bring you organically grown vegetables from our garden and eggs from our ducks – small children can have fun helping to collect the eggs!

Outside there is a terraced garden area with shade-giving trees – another attractive place for eating outside and enjoying the views. The remains of an old stone-built bread oven have been used to form a raised bed for a flourishing herb garden which guests are free to plunder for cooking. A sun umbrella, deckchairs and rugs are provided, and there's a huge collection of books.

Towels and bed-linen are provided and a change is supplied once a week. A washing-machine is available. For those with children, we can babysit for a small charge if required. A soft futon mattress suitable for a child can be placed in either bedroom or in the living-room. Children’s toys and a pushchair are available on request. We live on site and are happy to give advice or help when necessary but are careful not to be invasive, making this an excellent place for a family holiday or for those seeking a romantic escape.

A car is essential, as the house is difficult to access by public transport.

AT A GLANCE

• 2 bedrooms (1 double,1 twin)

• Extra double sofa-bed and single futon

• Heating

• Washing machine

• Garden

• Secluded rural surroundings

• Ten minutes to town