Rinnovare

Rinnovare: Tuscany

This striking home in the rolling hills outside Lucca is every inch the perfect Tuscan retreat. A newly converted historic barn, it sits in a small hamlet in more than an acre of blissful grounds.

Driving up you'll spot the extraordinary facade, with its terracotta tiles, arched windows and Juliet balconies. The barn's old ventilating tiles have been cleverly maintained, with windows behind. And inside, there are tiled floors, beamed ceilings and shuttered windows. The decor is classically Tuscan, with antique furnishings, vintage paintings and a casual, country elegance.

We love the farmhouse kitchen here. Stocked with everything you could need, it flows through to the rest of the living space. There's a glass dining table for formal indoor meals and access out to a charming covered terrace at the side of the house.

Step outside and you can wander in the grounds, among olive trees and fragrant flowers – all the while taking in those incredible views. And it's here that you'll find the private pool. Pick your sunlounger, grab your book and prepare to spend hours on end thoroughly relaxing in this idyllic spot. There's even a pergola by the pool if you need to seek some shade in the heat of the midday sun.

Just a short walk from the nearest restaurant and a short drive from the pretty village of Montecarlo, it's not as remote here as it may feel. Drive into Lucca for some sightseeing, or head further afield to the beach at Lido di Camaiore or to the famous city of Pisa.

Home truths:
*There are two double beds in one room but we feel these are more suited to single occupants
*A sofa bed in the living room can be used, allowing for up to nine guests in total
*Let the host know if you'd like the twin room making up as a double instead
*You'll need a car to get around and there's plenty of private parking
*The saltwater pool is open from the last Saturday in April to the second Saturday in October
*Cots and high chairs are available if you're travelling with little ones
*Pets are welcome but the grounds are not secure – there's a €50 fee per animal per week
*The host supplies beach essentials if you fancy driving to the coast
*Electricity isn't included so you'll be paying between €80 and €150 extra per week