Shadow Blooms

Tucked away in the Tuscan countryside just outside Castel del Piano, this rural villa is perfectly placed for exploring. This region is known for natural hot springs and idyllic spa towns like Saturnia and Montalcino – both a forty-minute drive away – where you can soak your troubles away in thermal pools. Fancy sightseeing? Grosetto and Siena are about an hour away by car, as is Italy's west coast if you're in the mood for sand and sun.

Back at home, it's easy to fall in love with the slow lifestyle this villa promises – imagine endless days splashing in the pool, afternoons lounging in the hammock, and evenings dining alfresco as the stars pop out overhead. Inside, this home is brimming with cosy Tuscan character, from the vaulted timber ceilings and exposed stone walls down to the terracotta tile flooring. There's even a study upstairs for all your work-from-home needs, as well as a wood oven and a built-in barbecue outside when you're hungry for a homecooked meal.

Home truths:
*There is fixed air conditioning in the bedrooms and in the living space
*The pool is open from the last Saturday in April to the first Saturday in October
*A car is necessary here – there are up to five uncovered parking spaces available in the driveway
*Although the bedrooms are both on the ground floor, the garden is unevenly paved, so those with limited mobility will need to take care
*A cot and high chair can be provided on request
*This home has a private entrance