http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/ Welcome to Been there. Your tips on the places you know - that you love, live in or have just visited - are what make this guide. http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/20775 Very friendly English family who embraced Italy, the culture and language and renovated an old farm house in this small village.

The apartment we stayed in was very spacious and extremely well equipped, everything we needed and more was there. The surrounding grounds were perfect for our children to explore safely. There were hammocks for relaxing quietly while admiring the amazing views across the mountains, and a badminton net (for when you're feeling more energetic) and bikes.

The girls (aged eight, 11 and 12) spent most of holiday in the pool. Our son (aged five) helped Damien the owner pick, plant and water their many vegetables and fruit (hours of entertainment) and they didn't mind the guests helping themselves.

The apartments were full, but not overcrowded and there was a great mix of people. You could take a 10-minute stroll into town from the villa. Walk up into the centro historico for beautiful buildings and views. Stop for a coffee half way up and enjoy the mountain views while soaking up the sun. Take the children to the park, play crazy golf or tennis.

The nearest beach is only 45 minutes away. We had an amazing time and would definitely suggest you check it out.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/20775 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/18264
The staff are wonderful, the facilities (I went there on a memorable long weekend of self-defence training for women only, taught by the owner) are superb. The food is local produce prepared in-house, and the welcome is unbelievable.

The owners have assembled a great team of helpers, and they are really good people. The house and gardens are gorgeous and the surroundings are breathtaking. The cost of a stay with them is low, and is great value.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/18264 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/17283
Prices are also very reasonable; passes and ski/boot hire are both about £12 a day. The resorts have just invested in four new lifts, artificial snow canons and a new trattoria.

The town of Sarnano is a top base for a white week in the Sibillini mountains, it has over 20 restaurants, a late music bar and even has a funky nightclub.

There's plenty to see and do locally, the area is full of wonderful medieval villages and fantastic for walking below the snowline.

There are many hotels locally or maybe you would prefer a cosy apartment with woodburning stove and free wood, in the old Sarnano Farm Villa San Raffaello.

The resort is easily reached on cheap flights into Ancona, Pescara, Perugia and even Rome and Bologna.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/17283 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/13340
The hilltop town of Sarnano with the backdrop of the Sibilini mountains is just wonderful and only 10 minutes' drive away. Taking a dip in the pool and looking straight out to the view is magic.

Will definitely be going back and probably experience one of the other apartments, perhaps the one with the balcony.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/13340