Grapevine Valley

Grapevine Valley: Tuscany

In the Val d'Orcia, it’s not uncommon to have an olive press or vineyard as your next-door neighbour, and this villa is no exception. Out in the Sienese countryside, there’s a sprawling vineyard next door for tours and tastings. For a picture of provincial Tuscan life, make the ten-minute drive into Montalcino with its castle and historic centre buzzing with trattoria. Head a little further to Siena for a day trip, an hour’s drive away.

Once you’ve picked up a local bottle of Brunello or Rosso di Montalcino, head to the villa’s private terrace to sip your spoils against a panoramic view of the rolling countryside. There’s a barbecue should you want to dine outside as well. The farm’s estate has a shared pool to cool off in during the day and, exploring the grounds, you’ll find a ping pong table and swing set for kids too.

Inside the thick stone walls, it’s a vision of old-world Tuscan farmhouse charm. Think wooden ceilings, terracotta tiled floors and an ancient hearth at the heart of the dine-in kitchen. Bedrooms are breezy and spacious, with windows looking out over the farmscape outside.

Home truths:
*In a remote location, having a car is recommended and there is private parking with this villa
*You'll have to drive down 500 metres of unpaved road to reach this home
*The owner stays on the same estate but will leave you to your privacy
*The swimming pool is shared with other guests of the estate and is open from May until the end of September
*Your host can provide a cot and high chair for infants on request
*One additional guest can sleep on the sofa bed in the living room