The Orchard Song

The Orchard Song: Tuscany

This 19th-century farmhouse has been beautifully restored, preserving all period features like terracotta tiles, oak floors and a travertine marble staircase. The sumptuously decorated dining rooms, living room and rustic-style kitchen are all interconnected without being totally open-plan, and there are as many dining room options as there are meals of the day. Sit up, formal-style under chintsy candelabra, country-style around the hardwood table, or alfresco, under the shade of the pergola. Outside you’re surrounded by rolling hills covered in vineyards and olive groves. Under the shade of oaks, cypresses, peach and apricot trees, and among the fragrant flowers, herbs and figs, you can easily believe the Garden of Eden is in Tuscany. At dusk, let the barbecue sizzle and sip celebrated local wines while listening to the songs of cicadas and crickets. In the morning, tip-toe to the pool for a refreshing swim and breakfast on the sundeck. There is a separate annexe for your personnel or for guests that might pop in at the last minute. A small annexe offers games for the kids, so adults can have some quiet time. You’re also a six-minute drive from Cetona where you can stock up on groceries or dine out.

Home truths:
*The pool is open from the last Saturday of April until the first Saturday of October
*You have to pay separately to cover electricity consumption and tourism tax
*Additional cleaning, extra bedlinens, and firewood can be provided for a surcharge
*You can also pay extra for heating, holding events or parties, and late check-ins after 8 pm
*The host can provide additional services, such as car rentals, private transfers and chef hire, upon request
*There is no air-conditioning, but heating and fans are available
*You will need a car to get around and there are four parking spaces on the premises