Amidst the olive groves and vineyards of the Chianti hills, this ancient spot offers a little slice of the good life. With foundations dating back to the 13th century, you can feel the history in the bones of this building. The kitchen looks like a grand master’s painting of a farmhouse scene –dried flowers and pots hanging from the rafters, a gas range-style cooker in the old hearth and a solid-wood breakfast table. There’s something medieval and grand about the main lounge with its wall-sized tapestry and huge, stone fireplace. A second, family room is more 19th-century-chic with arched windows brightening the space, an antique bureau and book-lined walls. The cavernous, vaulted games room boasts a pool table and classic book collection, and bedrooms are decked out with draped headboards and curtained four-posters fit for royalty. Outside, the swimming pool is something to behold; set in stone and slipping naturally into an emerald green pool. The gardens are bursting with herbs and flowers and, wandering the huge grounds, you’ll find tennis courts, boules, outdoor dining under a vine-covered pergola, comfy seating under gazebos and views of the surrounding Chianti hills as far as the eye can see.

Home truths:
*Daily dinners are included but provisions and shopping is paid for by guests
*Housekeeping is included with this home
*Pets are allowed, just ask your host beforehand
*There is plenty of parking on the premises