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Uniquely Italy: Redefining your “villa” stay

Tuscany, Emilia Romagna, Umbria, Grosseto, Lazio….shall we continue? While most travelers think purely of Tuscany when considering the countryside of central Italy, there is so much more to see! Italy isn’t “one size fits all” and we recently went in search of finding those properties that offer a twist on the quintessential Tuscan vacation.

We have rounded up our top 10 most unique accommodations in central Italy:


 

1. Lupaia

Lupaia, an agritouristic resort in the heart of Tuscany, stands on ancient foundations of over a thousand years on which the main house and its annexes date back to 1622. Lying on the soft hills of Tuscany, in the Sienese countryside between Pienza and Montepulciano, the ancient estate of Lupaia is suspended at the crossroads between history and nature. 

 

2. Eremito

Eremito is a unique place, a lay hermitage located in an isolated spot, where one can spend a relaxing and reinvigorating time, away from the daily hustle and bustle of daily life. The place is majestically located within Umbrian valleys, this amplifies the sense of spirituality enchanting the eyes and the soul.

 

3. Casa Iris

Casa Iris is nestled in the five hundred year old Palazzo Raveggi, just inside the historic center of Orbetello. This haven in the Grosseto region has created a playful mix of modern design and ancient beauty. We offer luxury amenities, inviting and spacious rooms, and fresh breakfast including local organic produce each morning. Special care has been taken at the end of the week, quality bedding and beautiful upholstery.

 

4. Villa Fontelunga

The Villa is set within an estate of 200 olive trees. The terrace to the rear of the main building allows clients to enjoy the Villa’s spectacular view across the Val di Chiana, where breakfast (included) and lunch are served daily. Twice a week the Villa organizes a private 3 course dinner party for guests, an event that has become synonymous with life here at Villa Fontelunga. The property includes a spacious living area, 9 double bedrooms, an outside gazebo with fireplace, landscaped gardens, large pool, Jacuzzi, tennis court, mountain bikes and yoga / pilates gazebo.

 

5. Castello di Monterone

The Castle of Monterone is located in the countryside, three kilometers from the historic center of Perugia. 
Eighteen rooms equipped with all comforts, in an ancient castle transformed into a period residence and furnished respecting its history. At Castello di Monterone it will be possible to live an experience of deep relaxation: welcomed in the refined spaces of the ancient residence or walking among the rose garden, it will be easy to immerse yourself in a timeless peace, finding serenity and balance with yourself at the sheltered from the daily stress of big cities.

 

6. Borgo Santo Pietro

Situated in the heart of Tuscany near Siena, Borgo Santo Pietro is a 5-star luxury boutique hotel with a holistic spa, cooking school, Michelin-starred restaurant, 230-acre organic farm, vineyards and 13-acre beautifully manicured gardens. Experience the ultimate luxury Tuscan vacation at Borgo Santo Pietro, your home away from home in Tuscany. Each of the 20 rooms and suites are individually styled, inspired by the villa’s rich history, with bespoke details executed by local craftsmen and in-house artisans using traditional techniques. Rooms and suites combine contemporary luxury with the romantic charm of the Tuscan countryside.

 

7. Hotel Il Pellicano

This luxury boutique hotel in Porto Ercole is a familiar romantic getaway for discerning guests all over the world and those seeking exclusive weekend breaks from Rome, on the Tuscan Coast. Each day the Tuscan sunlight illuminates our pristine blue bay, infusing us all with a sense of delicious wonder, no surprise that Il Pellicano is famed for is sprezzatura, stylish, effortless ambiance. “Sprezzatura” is an Italian term originating from Baldassare Castiglione’s The Book of the Courtier, which represents “a certain nonchalance, so as to conceal all art and make whatever one does or says appear to be without effort and almost without any thought about it.”

 

8. Villa Mangiacane

Nestled in the heart of the winemaking region of Chianti Classico, Villa Mangiacane is a magnificent 15th century property built by the Machiavelli family, bearing the unmistakable hand of the Renaissance master, Michelangelo. Located just 12km south of Florence, Mangiacane is set within 600 acres of flourishing vineyards and olive groves. Luxurious facilities compliment the Palazzo Machiavelli: an outdoor swimming pool, SPA with indoor heated pool, sauna and steam bath, unique sculpture garden and breathtaking views of the Brunelleschi Duomo in Florence from the terrace balcony.

 

9. Adler Spa Resort

Where gentle hills dot the landscape, the scent of cypresses fills the air and steaming thermal water relieves all tension, coming to rest is easy. Nestling in a unique location in the hilly Tuscan landscape, the ADLER Spa Resort THERMAE is not just a place for personal relaxation, it is also the ideal starting point for truly getting to know the region. Immerse yourself in our soothing spa and an environment of enchanting beauty.  

 

10. La Corte Dei Papi

Situated just a few kilometres from Cortona in Tuscany, in a small valley surrounded by rolling hills, la Corte Relais is an oasis of peace and tranquillity and is perfect for those seeking both culture and tradition. You will be seduced by the traditional fine food and comforted by the elegance of this authentic Tuscan villa. La Corte Relais is a country residence dating back to the 1700’s where long-standing tradition and luxury are brought together to offer our guests the wonderful experience of wellness and relaxation. Beautiful suites enhance the feeling of wellbeing. With an excellent restaurant and warm and genuine Tuscan hospitality, your stay will be completely unforgettable.

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