This estate, or tenuta, sits on a hill in the northwestern Italian region of Liguria, looking out over the sea and the region's majestic coastline. The cluster of farmhouse dwellings lies between an ancient pine forest and acres of olive groves, between the countryside and the elegant seaside town of Imperia. It's a seductive setting that's perfect for peaceful escapes.

But it's also a deeply personal space. The tenuta has been a long-lasting love affair for one family who've used it as a holiday home for generations and as their base for producing olive oil. It was recently updated by third-generation daughter and designer Virgilia to welcome guests into their world.

This vacation home for rent in Italy is made up of three units: Eremo, a standalone home for up to four guests; Limonaia, a poolside apartment for three; and Stanza, a hotel-style room for two.

This vacation home for rent in Italy was originally a hermitage and has been restored to maintain the beauty of the ancient structure, with respect for its traditional construction techniques, including the original stonework and Ligurian slate roofs. Objects inside the homes have been carefully selected, with a particular focus on Italian design pieces, both new and vintage, as well as natural fabrics and finishes.

It is made up of three separate units, which can be rented individually or together. Limonaia was the first unit made available for rent, over 15 years ago when the family first decided they wanted to share their home. It once stored lemons (hence its name), then later became a store room for the family's shop Canna Ramella. Today, it's an apartment that sleeps three guests.

Eremo is a freestanding unit that's been given a distinctive contemporary annex, in the shape of a white concrete cube. It is surrounded by a three-layered garden, designed by French landscape designer Jean Mus, which features white and blue flowers, native plants, and citrus fruit. It sleeps up to four guests.

Stanza is the simplest of the three units. With no kitchen, it's a place for one or two visitors to relax in the garden and poolside, and experience local gastronomy. Alternatively, it serves as a space for additional guests, if you are renting one of the other units.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

The family are happy to help guests create their perfect itineraries, including recommendations for food, shopping, sports to take part in, and beaches to visit. But they also offer some special extras.

Book a sensorial massage among the olive trees, choosing from healing, relaxing, and Ligurian aromatic, with local herbs and essential oils. Take a private iyengar yoga class at sunset, open to all levels. Let the hosts know which newspaper you read at home, and it will be delivered to your door.

Request a hand-selected basket of local artisanal produce, enough to make your first dinner. If that whets your appetite, take cooking lessons and learn traditional Ligurian dishes next door at a little family-run restaurant. And what visit would be complete without a guided tour of a local vineyard? With wine tasting, of course.

AROUND

Located on the Ligurian coast between Monaco and Genoa, Imperia is a lovely coastal town with hillsides of brightly colored buildings, crowned by the towers of classical San Maurizio cathedral. It is particularly renowned for its mild climate, from summer to winter time, and rich gastronomical culture. Less touristic and crowded than the Levante Riviera, the area will surprise you with its authentic beauty.

Throughout the region of Liguria, you can enjoy sailing, diving, surfing, and swimming in the warm turquoise waters, and watch the migrating dolphins and whales on excursions into the protected areas. There are many cycling and hiking paths in the hinterlands surrounded by olive groves and mountains, and even winter sports, about an hour's drive away in the Ligurian Alps.

The beautiful Imperia beaches of Porto Maurizio, Prino and Spiaggia D'oro are within a short drive. The Italian Riviera resort of San Remo is just a half hour's drive, and the French Riviera towns of Nice and Monaco are just over an hour away. The interior regions of Piedmont and Turin are a two-hour drive as are the winter playground of Alpes Maritime.

LOCATION

Imperia, Liguria, Italy. Nearest airport: Nice Côte d'Azur (97km).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: April through October for best weather.