Cristina is the perfect host, taking time to understand what we wanted to experience while we were in the area and making recommendations, to the warm welcome we received on arrival.

The house is lovely and very well equipped. The view, even though we didn't get the best weather, was stunning. No picture or words can quite capture it.

The area as a whole was fantastic. We took a winery tour of the local Franciacorta region which introduced us to Il Mosnel's wonderful sparkling wines.

Food in the area is generally very good and in the case of Al Guelfo Negher in Solto Collina, exceptional. Christian, chef & owner is passionate about locally sourced ingredients and the risotto is the best I've had.

You'll need a car to get around the villages & towns, speed limits are.....there.....but locals seem to add 20km/h by default. Roads are in good condition but Italian signage is very much of the "turn now" variety so pay attention to your navigation system.

Go for a walk along the promenade at Riva di Solto, at night you will see bats skimming across the tops of the water and this medieval village is truly beautiful.

Cristina will provide you with a fantastic list of restaurants and attractions, all the recommendations are good.

If you like beautiful scenery, great wine, tasty food (especially the cheeses!), you will have a lovely holiday here. We will definitely be back.