Chapel Bells

Chapel Bells: Tuscany

On a hill outside the beautiful medieval hamlet of Acone, this Tuscan villa has been the retreat of noble Florentine families over the centuries. And it still feels like an 18th-century country getaway. Built on the foundations of an ancient castle, the walls and balustrades are made from local stone, and lilac shutters retain an old-world feel. The grounds are filled with sunny spots to wine and dine throughout the day – a bistro table under twisting grapevines, chairs and tables scattered under the wrought-iron gazebo, and an expansive terrace lined with deep green cypress trees. A turquoise rectangle of swimming pool set in the lawn looks out over the rolling hills beyond. If you’re looking for somewhere to tie the knot in Tuscany, this villa has its own cute stone chapel and a backdrop made for photoshoots. Inside, you can picture noble families gathering in the candelabra-lit living rooms, set around stone fireplaces featuring the family crest. Beds come draped with sheer curtains, fit for a fairytale, and each grand hallway feels like the passage to a banquet or ball.

Home truths:
* The pool is open from May to October
* Pets are welcome for an additional fee
* There is a mandatory final cleaning fee and a charge for air conditioning and heating over a certain set rate
* Two of the bedrooms share a bathroom