Villa Marte

The villa

Perfect for a large gathering of family or friends, this restored Tuscan farmhouse has superb grounds, facilities and service. Situated in sought-after Chianti wine country, within easy reach of iconic Florence, Villa Marte is not only a fantastic base for exploring this fascinating Italian region but a well-equipped venue for luxuriating in style. Lush vineyards and olive groves carpet the surrounding slopes as you wind through the timeless landscapes of Chianti to the villa. Enveloped in an extensive landscaped garden, flanked by a wide terrace, the 200-year-old stone villa sets a striking silhouette, topped with its distinctive dovecote tower and terracotta tiled roof. Attractive sitting and dining areas are carefully laid out in the best parts of the garden for panoramic views and cooling shade. Start the day with a tranquil coffee on the terrace gazing across vineyards, sip a glass of velvety Chianti Classico to accompany a delicious lunch before a siesta by the pool or sit back with a book in hand under the shade of a cypress. Despite its impressive scale, the interiors feel welcoming, and the homely style perfectly complements the rural setting. Country furnishings incorporate pretty floral fabrics and solid wooden furniture with traditional brick arches and wooden beamed ceilings. A spacious open living space incorporates two kitchens, a long dining table and plenty of sitting areas for everyone, with Wi-Fi and a television room for those who prefer to stay connected. The main house has eight bedrooms, most of which have ensuite bathrooms. A bedroom in the tower shares a bathroom with the twin bedroom. It has an edge over the others with rooftop views on all three sides. Across the garden is a well-furnished cottage for four guests, perfect for a family or those who appreciate their own space. The piece de resistance has to be the spa with its sauna, jacuzzi and massage bed where wellness treatments can be arranged, perhaps after a morning sightseeing in Florence, a trip to a beach or a tour of the wineries. Villa Marte truly sets the scene for a wonderful break with just the right mix of fascinating sights and relaxation.

Villa Marte is located just a half-hour drive south of Florence in Chianti, a region which many consider the heart of Tuscany. Famous for its delicious Chianti wine and fertile hills, the region is a magnet for wine buffs and foodies alike. For art history lovers, a visit to Tuscany is to experience some of the most important settings and artworks from the Italian Renaissance, such as Michelangelo's David in the Accademia and Brunelleschi's Duomo in Florence. The nearest town to the villa for groceries and a choice of restaurants is the charming town of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa, just a 3-minute drive from the villa. A traditional stop-off point between Florence and Siena since the Middle Ages and Renaissance, you can sense its historic routes as you explore the surroundings. Incredible works of art can be found in monasteries and churches, which punctuate the area's landscape. There is so much to see in this part of Tuscany. Be sure to visit the tall towers and learn about the fascinating history of San Gimignano, just 25 km away. Try the nearby winery of Castello di Verrazzano for wine tasting in the magnificent setting of an 18th-century castle. Within a short drive from the villa, you can join the main road, sweeping you into Siena or Florence. For a smooth ride, just leave the car at the nearby Poggibonsi station and take a train. Siena is about an hour away and a must-see for its fabulous churches, galleries, restaurants, Renaissance and Gothic architecture and a stunning central piazza, the venue for its famous Palio horse race. Food plays a central role in Tuscan life, so enter into the spirit, find a scenic spot, sip on a glass of Chianti Classico, and try the region's best seasonal produce at one of the many farmers' markets or restaurants.