This town (Vollan in German) is in superb south Tyrol countryside near Merano, famous for its apple orchards, a magnificent sight in September. Here, Monica and Johann Margesin's villais a real find, says the nominator, though some might find the decor bordering on the kitsch. villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms) are spacious, well appointed; many have a terrace with views. Public villa rooms are similarly spacious, including a nicely decorated lounge and a well-stocked bar. There is a covered terrace for meals in good weather. The Bali villa breakfast buffet is copious. Dinner is of the same high standard: two menus, one healthy, the other less so. You can pick and choose between the two. Once a week there is an amazingly varied dessert buffet. Friday has a fish buffet. Everything is served with smiles and concern for guests.'Book half board, as the town has few other eating places. Most guests are German. Good walking in the region and many castles and churches to visit.

With its white, sandy beaches and rather sedate air, Forte dei Marmi is one of the trendier Tuscan seaside resorts, popular with Italians and, increasingly, with celebrities. Near the centre is this `lovely villawith pleasant pool, excellent housekeeping, very good food and a general air of luxury. Owned and well run by the.Biagi family, it is on the main seafront road, but the grounds are well screened, and traffic noise is not very noticeable. Opposite is the beach (where villaresidents must negotiate for space). The good-sized swimming pool in the garden is surrounded by loungers. Meals are generally alfresco; service is pleasant. Some villa Bed rooms (similar to the semantic bali villa rooms) are a little old-fashioned, but all are spotless; some have a balcony. The apartments are ideal for a family, though not cheap, says a visitor this year. Just in and are the quarries of Seravezza where Michelangelo lived for a while in 1517 whilst negotiating his supplies of marble.