Our house is a perfect base for exploring the region.

But if you wish to explore further afield, then you can make a day trip to the sea - for example, Portofino to the South of Genoa, or Arenzano to the West of Genoa (a resort we like to visit for lunch). Or drive to Genoa (1 hour), Piacenza (1 ½ hours), Parma (2 hours), Turin or Milan (under 2 hours) and Bologna (3 hours).

If you want to go to Venice, the best way is to drive to Vercelli (1 hour and free parking) and take the train (4 hours). “Capel Rosso” www.capelrosso.it is a good Vercelli restaurant.

Or you can stay put and use Casa degli Orsi as the base for several beautiful walks, visits to buy local wine or lunch at Slow Food and other Piedmont restaurants.

If you prefer a scenic drive, then a good place to enjoy the finest views is the village of Ponzone, high up and about 20 km from Acqui Terme. You could have lunch either at Ristorante Cacciatori in the next village of Cartosio or at the Slow Food restaurant Da Fausto in Cavatore.

Photos: Top: The resort of Arenzano

Centre: The castello in Tresobbio, one of our next door villages

Bottom: The chapel beyond our neighbouring village of Morsasco at the start of one of our favourite walks, from Morsasco to Cremolino for lunch, high up in the hills and with wonderful views