Cottage Elsa

The villa

Set in a little hamlet only half an hour from San Gimignano, this beautifully renovated Tuscan cottage welcomes up to 8 guests with its stylish interiors, flower - filled garden and gorgeous swimming pool. Between Florence and Siena, this is a superb setting for experiencing the rich history, gastronomy and fine wine of Tuscany.

Cottage Elsa is a pretty air - conditioned house with a contemporary twist - step inside the upper level and admire the beautiful modern kitchen with its dining table and beamed ceiling, then stroll through the double doors to the light - filled lounge with picture book windows framing the views. Large glass doors bring the outside in - wander up to the idyllic terrace for al - fresco dining overlooking the treetops, or potter down the stairs to the garden, passing terracotta pots of flowers on the way.

The cottage sleeps up to 8 guests (plus an additional two children on request using additional beds or cots). There are four queen - size double bedrooms, two of which can be split into twins for flexible bed configurations. Four modern shower rooms also await, two of which are en suite. For multi - generational stays or weddings, consider renting alongside  Castellare Corti , a handsome 7 - bedroom residence in the same hamlet a short walk away.  

Outside Cottage Elsa, admire manicured lawns, little paths, colourful flowers and many trees across the spacious grounds, stop off for a coffee or glass of local wine on the garden terrace, or head straight for the private pool with its loungers and verdant surroundings.

Pass olive groves, vines and cypresses as you explore the landscapes of the Chianti countryside and beyond. There’s a handful of restaurants in nearby Tavarnelle Val di Pesa, only 2km away, or venture further to the likes of Castellina in Chianti and Greve in Chianti for Tuscan character and some of the finest wines in the region.

The enchanting towers of San Gimignano, the Etruscan legacy of Volterra and the artistic riches of Florence and Siena promise wonderful day trips. Meanwhile, the discreet yet welcoming owners are delighted to help curate tailored experiences, from wine tastings and cookery classes to private guided tours and even hot - air balloon rides, a spectacular way to take in the rolling Tuscan scenery.

Cottage Elsa is located in a little hamlet around 30km south of Florence, a fine setting for exploring this beautiful part of Tuscany. The hamlet is home to a historic church, other resident families (including the owner) and Castellare Corti  (a short walk away). 

The small town of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa is just 2km away by car with its handful of restaurants, some useful shops and a small supermarket. Around a 20 - minute drive away, Poggibonsi offers a wider selection of town amenities including larger supermarkets. Take time to explore this authentic town and its historic sites including Fortezza di Poggio Imperiale, an unfinished Medici Fortress which hosts summer concerts.

One of the many highlights of Tuscany is the picturesque village of San Gimignano (25km) with its enchanting towers and cobbled lanes, only half an hour by car. A little further afield, Volterra (51km) is a must for history lovers, a charming medieval town with Renaissance architecture as well as a fascinating Etruscan history.

Wonderful day trips include Florence (30km) and Siena (50km) or stay closer to home and visit delightful hilltop villages passing iconic Tuscan landscapes of rolling hills, vines, olive groves and cypresses en route.

If you can find the time, you could even venture to Pisa (83km) to soak up its vibrant ambience on Piazza dei Miracoli and of course admire its famous leaning tower. In the other direction, the grandeur of Arezzo (95km) awaits, just over an hour away, with its many museums, historic buildings and impressive main square.