This beautiful home in Tuscany is rich in history. The apartment is part of an estate that dates back to the 11th century when it was a defense watchtower for the castle of Santa Maria Novella. It’s been lovingly restored so the apartment is packed full of charm, as well as being a comfortable and convenient place to stay. The apartment is set in a park of oak trees, with sweeping views of the rolling countryside all around. It’s at the heart of Chianti so there are many vineyards in the countryside surrounding the home – it would be almost rude not to sample some of the region’s most famous export. Azienda Agricola Montefioralle is a winery thirty-one minutes away by car. Take a tour of the vineyard, partake in a wine tasting, and maybe stay for lunch – it’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon. Despite the rural setting of this home, it’s still easy to get out and explore Tuscany. Florence is a thirty-seven-minute drive away, and it’s well worth the journey. Set out early and make a day of it – walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo for the views, admire the wonderful art of the Uffizi, and dine on some of the best food in Italy. Back at the villa, don your hiking boots and set out on foot to explore the countryside. If that’s a little too active for your tastes, take a seat on the terrace and breathe in the views from there. Sunset from this vantage point is particularly striking.

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