Archive for 'Pretty Views'

Tuscany, as a destination, is full of stunning rural landscapes, pretty historic towns perched on hilltops, and awe-inspiring cities stuffed with artistic and cultural gems. There are, as a result, countless excellent holiday destinations to choose from within the region, if you are looking to plan a vacation in Tuscany. We have recently discussed the appeal of a holiday in Pisa, a vacation in Arezzo, and a villas in Cortona, but another gorgeous setting for a getaway in Tuscany that we highly recommend is Volterra. Volterra, an utterly picturesque walled hilltop town with Etruscan origins and a Medieval appearance, is an ideal place for a getaway for those who want to experience the most characteristic, authentic, and scenic version of Tuscany. So, browse our villas in Volterra and read on to discover just five reasons as to why you should definitely make the town your next vacation destination in Tuscany...     Read More

If you are planning on a vacation in Tuscany and you have some kids in your party that are animal-crazy or just anyone who is interested in the great outdoors and getting out and exploring it, then we highly recommend a visit to the Oasi WWF Bosco del Bottaccio, or the Bottaccio WWF Oasis in Capannori. This wonderful natural gem is the last part of the plain woodland that surrounded the Lake of Bientina that remains and is an example of the rich wetlands that once made up much of Tuscany's landscape. With a diverse and important flora and fauna and lots of paths to walk, it is a scenic place to enjoy a rather distinctive and beautiful but lesser-known part of Tuscany and to learn more about the natural world. If you have found a vacation rental in Lucca or a holiday rental in Pisa, it is a must-see.     Read More

There are lots of different wineries that one can choose to visit while on vacation in Tuscany but if you have found a luxury villa in Florence and are looking for a pretty, respected, and nearby winery to head to on a day trip out of the city then few options could be as ideal as Castello di Nipozzano. Located high on a hillside in the municipality of Pelago in the Chianti wine region, near Florence, overlooking the towns of San Francesco and Pontassieve and the ancient Roman road, the Cassia Vetus, it has long been a point of strategic importance in guarding the city of Florence. It has also been long recognised as a rather special architectural gem and has been a winery that is opened to the public and a foodie destination since the 20th century. A truly magical and utterly beautiful place to sample some delicious local wines, it is a must for wine-lovers who are spending time in Florence.     Read More

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