Florence
Posted in: Books and Movies Florence Localities Must See Attractions

While the Hannibal television show (2013-2015) was ultimately cancelled, it has since become a major cult classic and has been long recognised by critics as one of the best television shows in recent history. Fans of the show are of the especially passionate variety and if you are among their number and considering a villa in Florence for your next vacation, then you may be interested in learning about the filming locations that were featured in season 3, much of which takes place in the city. 

San Vincenzo, Tuscan Coast
Posted in: Events Localities Summer Travel Tips Tuscan Coast Villas and Farmhouses

Tuscany has so much to offer even the most discerning of tourists that it is no surprise that it remains one of the most popular and beloved tourist destinations in Italy and in Europe.


There is, of course, the delicious cuisine as well as the amazing wines of the region, the stunning rolling green hills and pretty historic towns that make up the landscape, the impossibly fascinating culture capitals that are the cities, the spa towns with their natural hot springs, and much more besides to discover during a getaway in this part of the world. 


However, today we are specifically thinking about the appeals of booking a villa on the Tuscan Coast.

Florence
Posted in: Florence Localities Museums & Galleries Tourist Attractions Travel Tips

It is important that everyone in your party can enjoy a vacation comfortably and safely and as we have a range of accessible villas in Tuscany to choose from, it is certainly possible to accommodate those who may have mobility issues or require the use of a wheelchair.


While a getaway in Tuscany can be enjoyed by everyone, it is certainly true that many historic buildings, attractions, and towns can pose difficulties to those who have challenges when it comes to mobility. Progress has been made and destinations like Florence are actively working on making sure that all tourists can enjoy the city by introducing paved areas through cobbled sections of the city, adding lifts and ramps to buildings, and more. Although not quite everywhere is up to standard yet, here is a list of some museums in Florence and their accessibility features so you can plan a trip during a holiday in Florence, worry-free:

Saffron
Posted in: Food and Wine Localities Products & Specialities San Gimignano

Saffron is an ingredient and spice derived from the saffron crocus that is used to give incredible flavour and colour to dishes and for medicinal purposes. While its origins are debated, Iran, Greece, and Mesopotamia all have claims to the world’s costliest spice by weight. Italian varieties have since become famous for their quality and there is even a Tuscan area of production in the lands around the beautiful Medieval walled town of San Gimignano. In fact, some of the ancient towers for which San Gimignano is known were built by families who partially made their fortune through San Gimignano saffron and saffron was even grown on some of those same rooftops!


Certainly, for the discerning foodie who books a villa in San Gimignano, purchasing a little of this local luxury spice to add into your culinary exploits back home is a must. It really is a perfect souvenir to bring back with you – small, easily transportable, precious, and immediately evocative of wonderful memories with its scent and flavour!

Tour de France
Posted in: Activities Cycling Events Florence June Localities Newsletters

Any cycling enthusiasts who have been considering a villa in Florence at the end of June 2024 should stop wondering and book their vacation immediately because, for the first time in 121 years, the race is kicking off in Italy and specifically from Florence before passing through the Apuan Alps and into Emilia Romagna.


The oldest and most celebrated by far of the three big Grand Tour events in cycling, this men’s multiple-stage race causes a true fever of excitement each summer in Europe, especially in the towns through which the speeding competitors pass.


Florence, as a city, seems especially fitting as a spot for this grand cycling event to begin as it is a place with a great passion for the activity and Emilia-Romagna, too, has long and impressive affiliations with the history of cycling as a sport.