luxury holidays rentals Tuscany, Italy (page 14)

The first house built in Tuoro by the legendary mayor, writer, essayist, botanist, genius amateur of architecture and ante litteram ecologist Edwin Cerio, between 1927 and 1932: a snow-white parallelepiped, enlivened by a porch and a terrace only a stone's throw from the celebrated Piazzetta and the fashion district of Via Camerelle. Yet suddenly it looks like another Capri. Disappearing as if by spell are the tourist crowds, the sound of silence, gates and high walls of villas festooned with fauve bougainvillea, cypresses and maritime pines. The location is extraordinary, overlooking panoramically both Marina Piccola and Marina Grande, facing the Castiglione, a gaunt, dramatically sculptural rock hemmed in by greenery. Closing the horizon is a Vesuvius-Mount Fuji now stark, vibrant, Warholian, now blurred and surrounded by vague, white, stringy Hokusai-like clouds. Surrounding the 600-square-meter building that is set into the living rock behind, distributed on two floors with a vast upper terrace overlooked by the sleeping quarters and complemented by two outdoor covered loggia living areas, are the garden, gi lush vegetable gardens on various levels. The property has 7 bedrooms each with ensuite plus two staff bedrooms. In addition there is a swimming pool in fieri. The original Iznik-inspired polychrome Vietri tile flooring has been restored and zoned both inside the house and outside, emphasizing continuity, homogeneity of use. This villa belongs to the island's history. It is also livable even out of season: meaning long walks at the natural arch, at Villa Jovis, at the Migliera in Anacapri; it means concentration, readings, the newfound civilization of conversation, bathing at Villa Malaparte, an extraordinary, unique vocation for conviviality.

Castle dei Lorena, former residence of Tuscan nobility, is located in the heart of Maremma, a piece of Tuscany that, at a glance, seems to remain still in time, with seas of rolling green fields to the west and the breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the island of Elba to the east. The area that surrounds the Castle is renowned for its wine production; for instance, Sassicaia and Ornellaia, two of the most esteemed wines in the world, are produced just kilometres from the Castle. A few passes from the Castle will take guests to the natural springs of Il Calidario with temperatures at 36 degrees Celsius. A ten-minute drive will take guests to gorgeous beaches along the Tuscan coast. The area is abundant with fine dining, charming medieval towns, wine production, thermal spas, and nature reserves, but one can just as easily go on day excursions to Florence, Siena, the Island of Elba, and Pisa, for instance. Castle dei Lorena is accessed by a cypress-lined lane, which ends at the impressive gates of the front garden with private parking. In this magnificent Castle, guests enjoy all the comforts of modern luxury while sleeping within a historical masterpiece. The grounds include a rose garden, an entrance garden, a swimming pool and a jacuzzi. With 14 bedrooms, the Castle can welcome up to 28 guests. Each of the bedrooms, with decorated ceilings and antique furnishings, include en-suite bathrooms (except one), air conditioning, and satellite television, with professional-quality wifi available throughout the Castle. The Castle, which dates back to the 16th century, is situated perfectly along the Etruscan coast to enjoy the breathtaking panorama of both the Tuscan countryside and the seas beyond.

Santo Spirito is an exclusive apartment that seamlessly blends the charm of historical elements with the comfort of modern technologies, offering a top-tier accommodation experience. Located in the heart of authentic Florence, in the lively Oltrarno district, it is just steps away from Piazza Santo Spirito and a five-minute walk from Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti. From its windows, you can enjoy breathtaking views: the nearby Church of Santo Spirito, a beloved symbol for Florentines, feels almost within reach, while the majestic dome of Brunelleschi and Giotto's Bell Tower dominate the skyline. The apartment is situated on the fourth floor of a historic building typical of the Oltrarno area, equipped with an elevator. The entrance opens into a spacious living area, furnished with a comfortable double sofa bed and a dining table, connected to a separate, fully equipped kitchen. From the living room, you can access the sleeping area, which consists of two double bedrooms, one with an en-suite bathroom, and a large bathroom with a shower. A staircase leads to a large mezzanine, featuring an additional double bed and a second bathroom with a shower. Santo Spirito is a jewel of traditional architecture and contemporary design, enhanced by cutting-edge technical solutions to ensure understated yet authentic luxury.

A truly luxury retreat among the world famous Tuscan hills. Villa Caccia Chianti is located only a short drive from Florence and Siena, surrounded by its own private vineyards and olive groves. The estate has a long historical background and it has been owned by the same noble family since 1920. The interior was designed by Princess Ma rianita Ruspoli, a combination of modern elegance and authentic Tuscan style. The villa consists of 9 ensuite bedrooms with private bathrooms fully equipped with BVLGARI bath products. The kitchen has everything one needs to create superb cuisine, using the organic vegetables and fruit from the estate's own garden. There is even a surprise for gelato lovers to have their own home-made ice-cream experience. Go for a walk, sit by the pool with a book or discover the woodland and wildflower meadows near the estate. The perfect place for a group of friends or family to enjoy the wonderful Chianti Region and explore the breathtaking Tuscan hill tops, and close enough to all the major tourist destinations, such as San Gimignano, Cortona and Volterra.

Little Gem - 2 Bedroom Penthouse with stunning rooftop views At this penthouse you will find comfort and style combined, in the perfect city location! Right in the historical center of Florence. This perfect Florentine 'home away from home' is a modern penthouse apartment located on the top floor of a beautiful 17th century Florentine palazzo. Access to the spectacular apartment s by private lift to the 4th and final floor. The entrance opens out into an open plan dining room and living room with kitchen corner, where windows abound. The master bedroom is connected on one side of the dining room and the second bedroom is located on the upper floor (15 stairs). Both bedrooms have bathrooms with walk-in showers. Both beds are double mattresses measuring approximately 160cm x 190cm. They cannot be divided into twin beds. The apartment's most incredible feature however is the wonderful L-shaped terrace (350 sq ft) that offers views over the Arno River and the famous Brancacci Chapel and the Church of Cestello with views that lead up to the Pitti Palace and the Boboli Gardens. The terrace has decked flooring and is the perfect location for panoramic breakfasts, lunches, dinner parties, evening drinks and there is a space which can be used for outdoor pilates and yoga - or simply relaxing under the hot Tuscan sun. This well-furnished apartment features air-conditioning, dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, hairdryers in both bathrooms, electronically controlled shades on all windows, Wi-Fi and Smart TV (living room only). All the windows offer panoramic views out onto the city, the decorative red terracotta lined rooftops and hills both towards Monte Morello and the Boboli Gardens and Forte Belvedere to the south. The windows in the living room look out onto Santa Maria Novella church, the Medici Chapels and the Giotto Bell Tower not to mention a portion of the magnificent Duomo. Little Gem represents an indulgent retreat after a day experiencing the wealth of activities that Florence and the surrounding towns and landscapes can offer.

Chalet Val Gardena offers luxury accommodation, spectacular views and elegant yet rustic furnishings with a five-star service in the privacy of this home away from home. The chalet (320 m2) is made up of a spacious living area with log fire, kitchen, four comfortable suites all with en-suite bathroom, private spa area with Combi sauna, infra-red sauna, wellness shower, panoramic relax area and outdoor jacuzzi. There is an entertainment room with all round sound-system, a pool table, bar, and cinema area. The chalet also has a private ski and boot room. The chalet offers breathtaking views over the village and the Sella Massif beyond, not only from the living area but from each bedroom. In addition, guests may use the outdoor heated pool and beauty treatment/ massage rooms, Finnish sauna, hammam, waterbeds, infrared loungers and ice fountain, which are shared with guests at the property's next door sister structure. The Super Ski Dolomiti area, totals 1200km of prepared slopes with more than 500 that can be skied from Selva without taking a single bus! The vast majority of the lifts in the area are latest generation 4 - 8 seater chair lifts (a couple are even heated) or bubble lifts. The valley boasts 150 km of cross-country skiing tracks and lots of walks can be done from right outside the chalet door into this stunning area. The Dolomites can also proudly state that on average there is sunshine 8 days out of 10! The typical exceptional weather makes Selva a super destination for those who like a winter holiday with or without the skiing. There are many activities on offer such as winter walks, snow shoeing, cooking classes and shopping. Included in the rental during the Winter: Exclusive use of the chalet and its facilities Extensive buffet breakfast with warm dishes of your choice Private chef and waiter will serve a 5-course evening meal for 6 evenings during the week A cheese and wine tasting with some of the best south Tyrolean wines Daily house keeping Wood for the log fire Fresh flowers on arrival Free Wi-Fi throughout the chalet Prosecco on arrival and introduction to the chalet and area Concierge service before and during stay Driving service to and from the slopes and village center from 8.00 - 19.00 On request: · In-house massages and beauty treatments · Transfers or day trips by helicopter can be arranged from right next to the chalet (during daylight hours) Included in the rental during the Summer: Exclusive use of the chalet and its facilities, plus the shared facilities Extensive buffet breakfast with warm dishes of your choice Daily housekeeping carried out each morning In-house massages and beauty treatments (treatment cost not included) Wood for the log fire Fresh flowers on arrival Free Wi-Fi throughout the chalet Prosecco and canapés on arrival and introduction to the chalet and area Concierge service before and during your stay to organize anything you may desire A 5 course evening meal can be served in the chalet at an additional cost Guests have use of the chalet kitchen and BBQ

This enchanting masseria (the name for a farmhouse in Puglia), once a countryside monastery, has been restored into a luxurious and stylish villa along the Trulli Coast in the heart of Puglia. The estate is located in Monopoli, rooted in old sea traditions known as the hundred districts town. From here, guests can easily reach attractions such as Alberobello, Castellana Grotte, Ostuni, Conversano, Brindisi, and Lecce. In addition, it is but five kilometers to the seaside. Within the estate, guests can enjoy the spectacular combination of the villa's splendid architecture and its beautiful natural surroundings. Indeed, it is immersed within mandarin, lemon, plum, pear, cherry orchards and a vegetable garden with local and native vegetables, completing its perfect countryside landscape. In the back of the estate, an old oak tree casts shadows by the poolside.The estate has preserved the essence of its origins. The resort is composed of eleven trulli (typical houses within the Itria Valley, which are covered with dry stone), leaned one against the other, giving both the structure and the sensation of being within a small village or a theatre set. The property can welcome larger groups of friends or families as it can accommodate up to 14 guests. The estate is composed of 7 suites, which are spacious, bright, and each with unique characteristics. They are in the 'trulli' and in the old stable, keeping all the equipment of the past: recycled wooden furniture, natural fabrics, ceramics of local craftsmen, decorations unearthed in old markets of the surrounding villages. This gorgeous Pugliese masseria, immersed within the Valle d'Itria along the Trulli Coast, is the perfect space where guests can escape from life's modern pace in this luxurious countryside home: absorb the fresh seaside air, enjoy succulent local fruits and vegetables, and recharge.

Podere Cipressi is elegant and charming private farmhouse is situated in the heart of the Tuscan countryside near the city of Siena. This gorgeous estate represents a modern interpretation of the Tuscan tradition, where the hearth is the heart of the household, what brings us together. The villa is situated on a private, 4,200-acre estate of vineyards, olive groves, and private reserves. The villa features a stunning, glass-mosaic infinity swimming pool that overlooks the awe-inspiring landscape that is the Senese hills. Adjacent to the swimming pool is a vine-covered pergola and lounge and sun bathing area. The patio area also features an outdoor living area with a central fire pit and a hot tub. Though one might find little reason to leave, the estate is also conveniently located 20 minutes west of Siena, just 45 minutes south of Florence, and just an hour, scenic drive to the seaside. This beautiful, modern farmhouse manifests the surrounding Tuscan hillside in its unique and classic-contemporary style, beautifully blending the timeless beauty of the Senese countryside with modern luxury and aesthetic. The property can accommodate up to ten guests. The villa features five bedrooms, each with with en-suite bathrooms. In addition, the villa features a fully-equipped kitchen, a charming dining room, a wine room, a welcoming and elegant living room, and a powder room. This contemporary Tuscan farmhouse is an enchanting space that offers refined facilities and luxurious comforts. Here, guests can enjoy a classic Tuscan retreat while pampered in modern luxury.

Renaissance charm and refined elegance blend seamlessly in this exquisite 170-square-meter apartment, located on the second floor with an elevator in the historic Palazzo Spinelli. Recognized as a monumental building and a national artistic heritage site, the palazzo dates back to the late 15th century and is just steps away from Piazza Santa Croce. The apartment captivates with its harmonious interplay of ancient features, minimalist modern design, and furnishings that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The entrance opens into a spacious living room, highlighted by an original 15th-century fireplace. Here, you'll find a comfortable lounge with a double sofa bed, an adjacent dining area, and a modern kitchen enclosed by sleek sliding glass panels. The sleeping area boasts three large double bedrooms and three bathrooms, two with showers and one with a bathtub. Within a short and pleasant 10-15 minute walk, you can reach some of Florence's most iconic landmarks, including the Basilica of Santa Croce with the Pazzi Chapel, the Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria with Palazzo Vecchio, the Duomo with the Baptistery and Giotto's Bell Tower, as well as Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti. All of this can be enjoyed while strolling through the picturesque streets and alleys of the historic city center.

Impressive property designed by a well-known architect and built inside the granite rocks of Porto Rotondo's old quarry. Located on the highest point of the area with a unique view ranging from Cugnana to the island of Mortorio, the home is virtually invisible from the road granting its guests the utmost privacy. The villa consists of three buildings: a main building and two dependance (one is for staff). The main building can be accessed either via the stairs or by an outside lift, and is made up of a ground floor with swimming pool area, living area with beautiful terrace, kitchen, two master bedrooms with bathroom and two guest rooms. On the first floor there are two beautiful Suites with bathroom and private terrace with stunning sea views. The guest dependance can be accessed from the ground floor of the house and includes a large living room, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom, plus a large well-kept garden and laundry area. Services and Amenities included: Linen and pool towels Daily cleaning (Sundays off) Luxury bath products on arrival Swimming pool Jacuzzi Two car parking spots

Elegant 300 sqm apartment located on the third floor of a historic Florentine building, without an elevator, and recently featured in AD - Architectural Digest. The property is situated directly opposite the renowned Galleria dell'Accademia and just 200 meters from the Duomo, in one of the city's most prestigious and exclusive areas. The entrance opens into a spacious living and dining area with an open-plan kitchen and a cozy bar corner. Continuing down the hallway, you reach the sleeping area, which includes four large double bedrooms and five bathrooms. A visible staircase connects the living/dining area to an upper floor, where a small gym and a fifth bedroom with an en-suite bathroom are located. Another staircase from the bar area leads to a refined SPA zone, equipped with a sauna, hot tub, and relaxation area. From the SPA, a few more steps take you to a stunning habitable terrace, furnished with relaxation seating, sun loungers, an outdoor shower, and a built-in mini-fridge. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Florence's rooftops and iconic landmarks, including Brunelleschi's Dome and Giotto's Bell Tower. It's the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Florentine sky. With its generous size, meticulous attention to detail in decor, enviable location, and spectacular views, the Accademia Penthouse is one of Florence's most exclusive properties, offering an unforgettable stay and truly unique memories.

Villa Daniel was built in the 1920s in Art Nouveau style by a noble family struck by the magic and unparalleled beauty of the landscape located on the shores of Lake Garda. Over time the home has hosted poets, illustrious and noble people, who appreciated and loved the magical Lake Garda written by Goethe. The villa is spread over 4 levels. On the ground floor there is the large living room, the dining room with fireplace, the main kitchen and the library. Guests can also dine on the terrace overlooking the lake. On the first floor one finds the main bedrooms, all with lake views. From here one can also appreciate the large terrace overlooking the garden and the Bay of Sirens. The attic floor accommodates 8 further guests, divided into 3 double and 2 single bedrooms. The basement floor houses the area dedicated to relaxation. Guests can enjoy the Sauna and steam room, both with lake views, the heated indoor pool (on request). One can also challenge friends to a game of billiards, watch your favorite movie in the cinema room, or choose your wine for dinner, from the cellar. The 7000m2 garden will guarantee you unparalleled privacy. Guests can swim in the infinity pool, or in the lake, having direct access to the latter from the property.

Elegant 300-square-meter apartment located on the third floor with an elevator in a building of great historical significance and one of the most fascinating examples of Renaissance noble palaces in Florence. The spacious and welcoming entrance leads to several refined rooms: a large modern kitchen with an adjacent pantry room, a king-size bedroom with a custom-made bed and a daybed, along with an en-suite bathroom featuring a bathtub with a shower. Continuing through the corridor, you'll find a spacious living room with a period fireplace and dining area, as well as the magnificent master bedroom, which boasts two custom-made king-size beds, all crowned by a stunningly frescoed ceiling. To the left of the entrance, a corridor leads to additional rooms: a bathroom with a shower, a bedroom with a custom-made double bed and a daybed (90x200 cm), another king-size bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and shower, and a large walk-in closet shared by both bedrooms. The apartment's large windows offer breathtaking views over the Lungarni, the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte, the gardens of Villa Bardini, and the characteristic rooftops of Florence. The location of the apartment is exceptional: just steps from the Basilica of Santa Croce and its square, the heart of Florentine life, and only a 10-15 minute walk from major attractions such as the Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, and Palazzo Pitti. Thanks to its generous size, the historical significance of the building, the elegance of its furnishings combined with modern comforts, and its privileged location with breathtaking views, the apartment stands as a true gem in the Florence landscape, an ideal place for moments of conviviality, total relaxation, and creating unforgettable memories.

Villa Lilli enjoys among the best views on the Island of Capri. The villa, facing the famous Faraglioni Rocks and the bay of Marina Piccola and surrounded by trees and vegetation, sits in a quiet position on the side of a hill. This beautiful stone house is surrounded by 300 square metres of Mediterranean garden. It is situated on a footpath, but less than 50 metres from access by taxis and 300 metres from the main road to Marina Piccola. The villa is just a 15-minute walk to the famous 'Piazzetta' and the luxurious island beaches are also a mere 15-minute walk. The villa has three large terraces, all overlooking the sea with stunning views. The first one is furnished with a table and chairs where guests can enjoy breakfast while taking in the stunning view of the Bay and the Faraglioni. The second terrace is accessible by a staircase from the garden or from the master bedroom, where the swimming pool is located. The furniture and the Vietri tiles on the floor give to the house the typical Capri style touch. All the rooms the kitchen and the bathrooms have been refurbished with all comforts and air conditioning. There are two double bedrooms and two bathrooms on the first floor. On the lower floor there is the master bedroom with bathroom en-suite and one double (twin) bedroom with en-suite bathroom. From these rooms you can accede directly to the terrace and the pool. This charming stone villa, overlooking the Mediterranean and the gorgeous Faraglioni Rocks, provides the perfect retreat where the charm of Capri meets modern comfort and luxury: a true island retreat.

Maggio Apartment, recently renovated, is a luxurious apartment located on the first floor with lift of a historic building. Everything has been chosen down to the smallest detail, favoring tailor-made, modern and contemporary furnishings. The apartment boasts parquet floors with a unique floral design and geometric patterns in the bathrooms. Upon entering the property you will find a large living room with a view of Palazzo Pitti, a kitchen equipped with modern appliances and a marble worktop. Next to the kitchen there is a laundry room equipped with sink, washing machine and dryer. From the corridor you reach the furnished internal courtyard and the three bedrooms, two of which with private bathroom. The master bedroom features a double bed and a private bathroom with shower; the second bedroom, also with private bathroom with shower, has two single beds; the last bedroom offers two single beds and a pull-out bed that can be added upon request. Maggio Apartment is equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, Smart TV and high quality appliances. The apartment is located in the historic Santo Spirito district, a few minutes walk from Ponte Vecchio and Piazza Pitti.

Great character and uniqueness, this is the motto that distinguishes the eclectic Sporti Apartment. Located in the beating heart of Florence, in a historic building from the 1500s designed by the illustrious Michelangelo Buonarroti, the apartment is just a four-minute walk from the famous Piazza Duomo, whose dome is partially visible from the large windows of the living room. The very bright apartment, recently renovated with taste and design furnishings, with a clever mix of ancient and modern style, occupies the entire second floor of the building (without lift), completely free on three sides. With a surface area of 200 sqm, the Sporti Apartment is the ideal location for families and small groups of friends who want to immerse themselves in everyday Florentine life. The property boasts four spacious bedrooms, a large and bright living room with a romantic mezzanine with relaxation corner, an ancient kitchen restored and fully equipped, three bathrooms - two of which are en-suite - and a relaxing infrared sauna room to be used to recharge your body and mind during more intense days (sauna room available from 1 November to 31 March). Two of the bedrooms have a bathtub inside to enjoy moments of pure tranquillity. If you wish to immerse yourself in history and Renaissance art this is the ideal location, with the touch of worldliness of the refined shops that are located a few steps from the apartment.