Old Tuscan Farmhouse

Old Tuscan Farmhouse: Tuscany

Relaxation is the order of the day at this 19th-century farmhouse in Tuscany's Ranchetto region. Located within its own natural park, lined by tall oak and chestnut trees, it's perfect for those after unwavering peace and privacy.

Upon arrival, the home's stone exterior, wooden shutters and juniper roofing hark back to the place's history, and we can't help but swoon over the warm and inviting living space inside. Beamed ceilings and terracotta floors add plenty of visual interest, while the very earthy and natural colour palette will soon have you feeling right at home. Cook up a storm in the country-style kitchen, then spill out into the beautiful communal outdoor areas.

With a completely-fenced garden of about 3000 sq/m, full of green foliage and potted flowers, you'll have no choice but to slow right down, adopt the pace of nature and unwind. Whether you're tucking into a lazy alfresco lunch on the terrace, cooling off with a few up and downs in your glistening pool or enjoying an apéritif under the pergola, you're sure to feel completely at ease.

If you can muster up the energy to leave this beautiful home, there's so much exploring to do nearby. Start with a visit to the traditional neighbouring town of Castiglion Fiorentino, where age-old buildings, museums and artwork make for a great historical trip, just a twenty-eight-minute drive away. You'll also find the popular hilltop town of Cortona and the attractive city of Arezzo in less than thirty minutes by car.

Home truths:
*At capacity, two people will be sleeping on a sofa bed in the living room
*AC is in the bedrooms only
*Due to the rural location you'll need a car to get around here – there are some uneven roads to contend with
*There's parking for three vehicles a few metres past the home's entrance gate, in front of which there is a steep descent
*Access into the pool is down a metal ladder, so this may not be suitable for those with limited mobility
*The pool is open from the last Saturday in April until the first Saturday in October
*Your host provides a baby cot and high chair on request
*Check-in and key collection will take place at the home