Tuscany

'A stay in a traditional Tuscan countryside farm.’ Location: Agriturismo Borgo Castelvecchi is situated in the heart of the Radda countryside in Chianti, halfway between Siena and Florence. Highlights: Countryside accommodation located in an elegant 18th century Manor House and the typical Tuscan stone buildings around the courtyard of the Borgo. There is a swimming pool with panoramic views over the Radda valley. A buffet breakfast is available every morning for guests. The on-site restaurant offers the finest Italian cuisine and there is a wine cellar on site, so make sure you arrange a tour. This countryside retreat is the ideal place to come for a peaceful getaway without distractions.

‘A farmhouse in an idyllic countrysid setting.’ Location: Situated in Cerreto Guidi, a short drive from Vinci. Highlights: This rustic Tuscan jewel in the ideal way to appreciate the authentic Tuscan countryside. The property has a pristine pool area with a large solarium and terrace area that overlooks the green countryside panoramic views. The farmyard itself has an enviable location - surrounded by olive trees, vineyards, and ancient fortresses. Wine, olive oil, and honey are all produced locally, so you can taste dishes with ingredients sourced only footsteps away. There are lots of scenic outdoor areas to relax, as well as a BBQ area, loungers, parasols, bike rental, and plenty of great walks nearby. You can also ask the staff to help you arrange horseback riding, bowling, tennis, canoe rental, or golf.

‘Peaceful apartments set in the countryside.’ Location: Only 1.9 miles from Casole D’Elsa or take a 800m pedestrian road directly into town. Highlights: If your preference is a self-catering holiday, this is a great choice. The beautiful apartments are surrounded by foliage in the most relaxing of settings. There’s an outdoor pool with hydromassage, and each apartment has a private garden or patio. There is also a massage therapist who can provide lymph treatment, Shiatsu, Ayurvedic massage or Qi Gong and body awareness. In the evenings, enjoy a steak on the barbecue or cook a pizza in the wood-fired oven that’s available for use by guests. For those seeking fun activities – the helpful staff can arrange cookery courses and tours of the local area. It’s a home away from home style property where you can have your privacy and enjoy the beauty of nature in a Tuscan countryside landscape.

'Stay in a historic castle with modern amenities.’ Location: Sitting right in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, Castello Vicchiomaggio. Highlights: This castle is enchanting, not only because of its stunning appearance, but because of its role as a working wine estate. The Chianti Classico area is known for being one of Italy’s top wine producers so it’s a great place for wine connoisseurs to visit. Aside from wine tours, food lovers have reasons to celebrate as well. The ambience of typical halls enlivening the Renaissance era makes Vicchiomaggio restaurant an apt place to enjoy some authentic Tuscan food. The restaurant has a welcoming environment replete with historical charm and the rich aromas of delicious dishes coupled with friendly service. No wonder, weddings, birthdays or other special events are organised here so often.

'A memorable stay in a medieval Tuscan house.’ Location: Fonte De’ Medici is a charming 14th century village in the heart of the Chianti Classico wine region, 18 miles south of Florence. Highlights: A stunning property that dates back to 1400 and is full of charm. There are 2 separate areas in Fonte De’ Medici: a typical Chianti village called Santa Maria a Macerata which houses the reception and swimming pool and the Trattoria della Fonte, where the wellness centre, conference room, tennis court and some of the apartments are located. The picturesque country road through the vineyards leads to Podere Tignalli which is on a hill facing Santa Maria, where there are more apartments and a swimming pool. The surrounding vineyards belong to the Antiori family who produce Tignanello and Solaia wines. The perfect place to relax and have a stress-free break.

'A perfect spot for sightseeing and relaxing.’ Location: Set in the Tuscany hills, about a mile from the town of San Gimignano. Highlights: The hotel is run by two sisters Paola and Roberta who are very welcoming and happy to advise you about the local tourist attractions. There is a delightful garden, perfect for a stroll in the fresh air and a pretty courtyard. This place really feels like a home away from home. The public transport conveniently stops outside the hotel to take you into the town centre so it’s easy to explore the local area. Some of the attractions in the vicinity are Chiesa di Saint Agostino, Collegiata Di Gimignano, Piazza Della Cisterns and Piazza Della Erbe. The hotel offers a free buffet breakfast, which is served on the veranda in the summer months. There is a seasonal swimming pool, sun loungers and a bar/lounge perfect for a drink in the sunshine.

‘Unforgettable Tuscan charm and atmosphere.’ Location: In the heart of the Tuscan valley and only 35km from Florence. Highlights: Villa Campestri is a splendid Renaissance property built around a 13th century fort. The hotel is situated on a hilltop and surrounded by organic olive groves, boasting the best extra virgin olive oil in the area.The landscape is unspoilt and there is a path through the woods leading to the Mugello valley. There is also a special olive oil menu and traditional Tuscan cuisine are served in the Olivaia restaurant. Lots of activities are on offer including olive tasting, cookery courses, massage with olive oil and mountain biking. Enjoy a drink on the striking panoramic terrace or relax on the loungers by the pool.

‘Gorgeous period property located in one of the most beautiful landscapes of Tuscany.’ Location: Villa Cavalieri is situated halfway between Florence and Siena. Highlights: From the entrance gate you follow a tree-lined avenue and then you get to the villa. The outdoor areas consist of a lovely Italian garden with olive trees and a private swimming pool, surrounded by greenery and equipped with parasol and sunbeds. At guests’ disposal also an outdoor dining table and a barbecue for tasty alfresco evening meals. From the long balcony that runs along the façade of the villa, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the Tuscan countryside. Villa Cavalieri has a private garden and swimming pool for the exclusive use of guests. If they wish, guests of the villa can also access the common, adjacent areas of the property (such as the restaurant for breakfast, etc.).

‘A stylish stay in a 19th century Tuscan Villa.’ Location: Overlooking the city of Florence, this hotel is set in beautiful tranquil surroundings on the side of an ancient Etruscan hill. Highlights: Villa Fiesole is surrounded by wooded gardens and hilltop views. There is an outdoor pool, private parking, a panoramic terrace and is ideally suited for those who want to sample warm Tuscan hospitality. Overlooking the city of Florence, the views make the Terrazzo restaurant perfect for romantic candle-lit dining - it serves both Italian and Tuscan cuisine. A full continental style breakfast is served every morning. The hotel staff are available to book all your local trips and museum visits. If you want to experience warm Tuscan hospitality away from the hustle and bustle of Florence - this is the ideal hotel.

‘Beautiful detached stone villa surrounded by olive groves.’ Location: Situated in San Donato in Fronzano (near Florence). Highlights: This sublime villa is surrounded by glorious olive groves yet is within walking distance of the small local town of San Donato. Here you will find all the amenities you need such as a small supermarket, restaurants, post office and bar. The inside of this villa is spacious and airy. From the outside you take a flight of stairs which then opens out in to the large lounge with TV and comfortable seating. The dining room is separate and stylishly has its own balcony equipped with table and chairs for enjoying meals in the fresh air. In the grounds is a wonderful swimming pool, a real joy in the evening with its own external lighting. There is a BBQ area, summer house and patio area enabling the outdoors to truly become an additional living space. Unfortunately this property is not suitable for wheelchair users or the elderly owing to the number of steps. This is a non-smoking property.