Provincial Pleasures

Provincial Pleasures: Tuscany

This handsome villa is ideal for those who are swayed by the idea of a getaway in the middle of the Tuscan countryside but don't want to be too far away from a city, either – in which case, you'll be happy to hear that Florence is about forty-five minutes away by car.

However, it's fair to say that the local area feels far removed from the hustle and bustle of urban life, a fact you'll come to appreciate while out in the home's large garden complete with a tennis court, swimming pool and plenty of loungers. There's also an alfresco dining table out on the terrace and if you don't feel confident trying your own hand at whipping up some tasty Tuscan cuisine, the host gives you the option of hiring a private chef to work their magic instead.

Inside, the home is a lot more contemporarily styled than the traditional exterior might suggest. Pristine white walls and smart wooden floors are an effortlessly modern combination, while the kitchen and bathrooms are all full of sleek finishes. They haven't completely done away with tradition, however – what could be a better way of ending the day than cuddling up next to the fireplace in the living room?

As well as the aforementioned Cradle of the Renaissance well within reach for a day trip, you'll also find plenty of smaller villages in the local area, as well as hiking routes and historic attractions, such as Castello di Sammezzano twenty-five minutes' drive away.

Home truths:
*Although the home is spread over three floors, there's a bedroom and bathroom on the ground level
*There's room to park on the premises
*The swimming pool is open from the start of May until the end of September
*Cleaning takes place once every three days, during which bed linen and towels are changed