Villa Bernardone

The villa

Surrounded by olive groves and lush areas of forest, Villa Bernardone is a place to come and appreciate the slower pace of life in the Tuscan countryside. The green hills and valleys of Chianti wine country are all around, with the villa's large gardens bordering unspoilt landscapes.

Dating back to the early 1800s, Villa Bernardone started life as a humble farmhouse. A loving renovation transformed it into a holiday home full of original features as well as modern facilities. Between the villa and the separate annexe, Villa Bernardone can sleep up to 12 adults and 2 children. This makes it ideal for groups of families or friends wanting a tranquil Tuscan escape.

Four of the five bedrooms within the main villa are en - suite and elegantly furnished with antique pieces and beautiful tiled floors. The fifth bedroom on the top floor features a double bed and adjoining attic bedroom, with sloping ceiling, with two single beds that can accommodate two children. This twin bedroom may be an ideal arrangement for those with younger children.

The ground floor features a series of relaxed spaces in which to take the weight off your feet, socialise and enjoy cosy dinners. Each room boasts an abundance of traditional features, whether that's the brick ceilings, terracotta - tiled floors, exposed stone walls or grand fireplaces. The sense of history is palpable as you move from one room to another, with the TV room being a contemporary bonus.

There's a mix of the modern and the historic in the annexe too, which can accommodate up to four extra guests with its two double beds and every convenient facility. The annexe also has its own dining terrace with views over the gardens.

The main al - fresco dining area is found within the extensive gardens also. You're sure to be spending lots of time here, with both seating and dining areas, as well as a wood - burning oven to cook delicious meals. A stroll through the lawned and leafy gardens will reveal a large swimming pool - perfect for cooling off on hot days.

Villa Bernardone sits within the rural landscapes of the Chianti wine region, which means wineries and historic towns are all around. And just on the doorstep is a typically laid - back Tuscan village.

Drive to nearby towns such as San Gimignano and Gambassi Terme to do some sightseeing, treat yourself to meals out and soak up centuries of history. San Gimignano is also a great starting point for hiking along country trails. Iconic Florence, Siena and Pisa can all be reached in around an hour by car, as can the coast and its sandy beaches.

Villa Bernardone occupies a tranquil position close to a small village within the Tuscan countryside and at the heart of Chianti wine territory. Wineries dot the area around the villa, with chances to take tours round rambling vineyards and sample delicious local wine. The closest is just a five - minute walk away. And less than a 10 - minute drive from Villa Bernardone is a larger village with restaurants, shops for groceries and a post office. Gambassi Terme is an ancient town that takes its name from the natural hot springs in the area. You can enjoy pampering treatments at spas, as well as historic sightseeing. One of the town's most beautiful buildings is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta. There's also a large park that's perfect for taking a break, as it's home to a children's playground and cafes selling drinks and snacks. Another historic town to visit is San Gimignano, with the drive there taking around 30 minutes. Its most striking feature is the 13th - century walls that encircle the town, with an atmospheric old town to stroll around. San Gimignano is also a great place to begin hikes through the scenic surrounding countryside. Florence is just an hour away, with the city being a must - visit for art and history lovers. It's where you can see Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Gallery and view a wealth of Renaissance art in the Uffizi Gallery. Also offering plenty of art, history and culture are the cities of Siena and Pisa. And for a day out by the sea, head to Marina di Pisa with its sandy beach and family - friendly facilities.