A Cypress Tree in the Lemon Grove

A Cypress Tree in the Lemon Grove: Tuscany

Could there be anything more Tuscan than a sentry of cypress trees guiding you up the driveway to your ancient Italian villa? This home, less than a 30-minute drive from the heart of Florence, is a private retreat away from the bustle of the famous Italian city, and feels a world away from any kind of city life. Once home to Marsilio Ficino, better known as the astrologer and educator to the Medici family, you’ll be staying in a piece of classical Italian history here. We love that this home has been decorated in a traditional Italian style – bold evergreen stripes line the sofas in the living room, citrusy oranges and yellows are used liberally in the bedrooms and bathrooms, and everywhere you look you'll spot the traditional tiles and exposed wooden beams that have been in this home for centuries. Laid out over three separate buildings, this Florentine villa is actually three homes in one. The main house plays host to the main communal rooms as well as four bedrooms, while in one annexe you’ll find a private kitchen and living room and three bedrooms. Two more bedrooms, a separate living space and another kitchen are located in the second, smaller annexe. All three buildings share access to the private, well-kept garden and large pool.

Home truths:
*We recommend travelling by car to this home – there’s free private parking available on-site
*The price of electricity is not included and will be charged separately – rates vary according to the season
*Extra services such as an in-house chef, transfers, and car rental are available on request for an additional charge
*The pool is available from the last Saturday in April to the first Saturday in October
*City taxes are not included in the price of the stay and will be collected in person upon check-in