Weekend with the Medicis

Arriving through the tree-lined drive of a Medici estate, you'll understand immediately why this villa is something apart. It's the only holiday rental on the former Ville dei Medici grounds, meaning the restored historic villa, its pool, and the surrounding countryside views are entirely yours. Long afternoons dissolve by the pool as cypress trees frame views across the Tuscan valley, and the outdoor dining terrace is made for unhurried evenings. Vinci itself – Leonardo da Vinci's birthplace – sits nearby, with a medieval castle and rolling hillside villages adding to the draw.

Home truths:
* A car is strongly recommended here – the villa sits in the Tuscan countryside and most local destinations, supermarkets, and restaurants require driving.
* You'll find some stairs on the approach to the villa, so bear that in mind when arriving with heavy luggage or guests with limited mobility. A disabled parking spot is available, and there is a lit path to the guest entrance.
* A portion of the garden and the parking area are shared with the owners' private residence next door – the pool area and the villa itself remain entirely private. The owners' pets also live on the grounds, so if anyone in your group has allergies or concerns, it's worth factoring in.
* There is no carbon monoxide alarm or smoke alarm on the premises – worth knowing if you're travelling with young children or would normally rely on these for peace of mind.
* If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide a cot and high chair at no additional cost. You'll need to request them in advance.