Archive for 'Architectural Gems'

If you have been looking for a lesser-known corner of Tuscany to explore on your next getaway then we highly recommend a trip to San Miniato. San Miniato is most famous for its world-renowned truffle market each year and the surrounding area produces some of the finest white truffles in the globe. It is, therefore, a destination that some foodies may well have heard of before. However, there is more to this charming little town and plenty of other reasons to visit, though if you're a truffle fan then an autumnal getaway in the area is definitely a good idea as it is awash with delicious local products and produce to try during the harvest season. In addition to the good eating, San Miniato also boasts a charming and historic centre that has been largely untouched by time and is perfect for wandering, handmade leather goods made locally, a kite festival each Easter, wonderful panoramic views over the stunning surrounding Tuscan landscape, a small art museum that boasts famous names like Filippo Lippi, Fra Bartolomeo, and Verrocchio, and some stunning architectural gems. One such architectural gem is the town's beautiful cathedral.     Read More

The Palazzo Vecchio is the beautiful and historic (and haunted) old town hall of Florence. Located right at the centre of the historic core of the city, it is one of many fascinating architectural gems in the area. However, if you have found a luxury villa in Florence and are interested in the history and heritage of the capital of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance then a visit to the Palazzo Vecchio to learn more about the origins of the city and how it developed up to the present day, who ruled over the lands, how the city has expanded and physically changed, important citizens throughout the ages from princes to artists to scientists, and more is a definite must. However, while you are exploring the building and being given context on the history of the city by your tour guide, be sure to pay attention to one room, in particular: the Salone dei Cinquecento, or Hall of the Five Hundred.     Read More

Look, it's not like there is any shortage of beautiful towns in Tuscany. The region is famously picturesque and it is not just because of the naturally verdant and lovely landscape, it is also largely because of the charming, historic, and well-preserved towns that are dotted throughout Tuscany. Of course, when one thinks of Tuscany, the likes of Florence, Siena, Pisa, and Lucca all come to mind first but, for many, a visit to the region is all about getting off the beaten path and stumbling upon lesser-known little towns and villages that have lots to offer in their own right; rich histories, incredible little museums with collections of wonderful local artworks or specialised collections of fascinating objects, Mom and Pop eateries where you can eat like a king for a steal, family-run wineries making the best wine and olive oil that you've ever tasted, shops selling authentic locally-made goods and traditional crafts, astounding churches, palaces, and architectural gems, amazing views over the region, and much more besides.

One such town, which is often described as potentially the prettiest town in all of Tuscany, is Montaione. Browse our vacation rentals in Montaione if you're looking to avoid tourist crowds and enjoy a peaceful and authentic getaway in Tuscany or, if you just want to visit this gorgeous gem of a town for the day but stay somewhere with a bit more to offer, then browse our luxury villas in Florence, which is just a stone's throw away.     Read More

Tuscany is a region that can be enjoyed to an extent if one is dependent on public transport but is, without a doubt, best explored if you have a car at your disposal because then you can both find the impossibly famous attractions on most people's bucket lists with ease, as well as stumble upon all sorts of other unexpected gems along the way. From tiny towns that most people have never heard of to pretty views that appear around a bend to incredible family-run eateries to wonderful local artistic and architectural feats, there are all sorts of things to be uncovered as you explore the Tuscan landscape. If you have found a luxury villa in Lucca, for example, and have rented a car to ramble around this beautiful province, you might find yourself stumbling across the impressive Fortezza delle Verrucole, or Verrucole Castle.     Read More