Archive for 'Tuscany'

The last post focused on some stunning historic interiors but this article will focus, instead, on some of the chicest and coolest contemporary interiors that will make design and décor enthusiast giddy, particularly all of the minimalists in the house. Read on for some of our most stylish and elegantly decorated vacation rentals in Italy.

6. Poggibonsi Si Itc829

This rental has that lovely and catchy name because it is just one of several properties on Poggibonsi, a farm-complex consisting of a farmhouse (originally a lookout tower from the 15th century), a small church from the 18th century, a former barn and two independent rural buildings. This rental, specifically, is the converted barn and is an independent property. It has undergone an attentive and skillful restoration work and, like the other rentals on the grounds, has been excellently decorated in a sleek, minimalist style that has been executed to absolute perfection.

Continuing on from our last post, here are some more of the best foodie experiences that you will find in Italy. If you are a food-lover planning a trip to Italy, take note of these activities and attractions and add them to your itinerary.

One of the most expensive foods in the world are truffles and, arguably, the best in the globe are those that are found in Tuscany. There are several fairs and festivals that are expressly dedicated to the truffle in Tuscany each Autumn. San Miniato, for example is known as the Truffle Capital and 25% of all of Italy's white truffles are produced in the territory. It is home to the biggest and best recognised festival for truffles globally, the Festival of the White Truffle of San Miniato. First held on the 26th of October 1969 in Piazza del Duomo, it has been held on the second, third and fourth weekends in November every year since, bar a two year hiatus immediately afterwards.

Continuing with our stunning historic properties...

4. Villa Di Montelopio

Villa Di Montelopio dates from the 16th century and still retains the atmosphere, though part has been totally restored in recent years. You still find the cotto floors and the beamed ceilings but with all modern comforts now a bonus. The castellated towers, stone exterior walls, ivy clinging to the facade, high ceilings, intricate details of the decor, intense sense of character and artworks all make for an incredibly romantic and picturesque experience that one won't quickly forget. The outdoor spaces are also charming: you are welcomed into the property by the delightful stone courtyard out front, perfect for dining, pretty terraces, a groomed little garden and a paved pool area, installed among the olive groves. It is available from just €542 per night and sleeps up to nine in five bedrooms.

The Uffizi Gallery, or Galleria degli Uffizi, in Piazza della Signoria is one of the oldest and most famous art museums in Europe and the world. Originally begun under Vasari for Cosimo I de' Medici in 1560, its name comes from the Italian word for “offices”, as that is what the building was intended to house when it was first constructed.
More and more space was dedicated to the display of artworks over time until that became its primary function and then, in the sixteenth century, access was granted to visitors who requested it. In 1765, it was officially opened to public access and, today, it is one of the world's best known and most beloved art galleries. It houses works by many famous artists from all over the world but one of the highlights has to be the work of Titian.

We have now put together two posts that share some of our picks for our favourite beaches in Italy – both famous hotspots and hidden gems alike – but there are many more beaches around the country that deserve a mention. If you are planning on holidaying in Italy and one of your major concerns is pretty coastal scenery, maritime adventures or seaside relaxation, these articles may help you choose a destination as we are rounding up the best of the best from tropical paradises to havens of calm and quiet and perfect destinations for watersports to historic bays.

No matter your budget, who you are, when you're going, who you are bringing with you or how long you're going for, there is a perfect choice for you. Read on and figure out which of our favourite beaches sounds like it might just become your favourite too!