Hello there, I can relate to most of what you say and that was one reason why we decided to change our lifestyle and move to Abruzzo in Italy. This is an area as yet untouched by commercialism and relatively unknown to British people with a very laid back lifestyle. We get visitors from Rome, France and other Italians who want away from the cities. It is very beautiful with the Adriatic Sea 35 mins away and likewise the skiing both of which we indulge in (my husband being an ex ski instructor). We made our move permanent one year ago and have no regrets. One word of advice though! rent first to get a feel for the area. Here there are lots of villages surrounding ours and all within 5 mins driving distance, so it pays to rent for a while and find out what suits you. Easy to get to, (Ryan Air) comes to Pescara every day from Stansted and I can organise rentals and airport pickup. Airport being 35 mins from our village. My advice is test the water first before making the leap!