If we’re lucky, one of the great joys of getting older is more freedom to travel when we want. The kids may have moved on, and part-time work or even retirement hopefully allows more time to explore further afield. Better still, the need to take holidays during the peak summer months has gone, leaving us free to experience different destinations when they’re at their very best.

While Italy is wonderful at any time of the year, it’s possibly at its most beautiful in fall, when hillsides are awash with vibrant reds and golds, and menus overflowing with dishes packed with freshly-gathered truffles, mushrooms, and chestnuts.