Villa Papavero

Tuscany has been renowned for culture, food and wine, and scenery for hundreds of years - and its international fame is well-earned. 

Set deep in the heart of Tuscany, the handsome stone farmhouse of Villa Papavero is the only residence for miles. From here, you can look out over the Valdera region, know for producing complex wines and pig-snuffled truffles, while the town of Lajatico is also nearby.

Villa Papavero may look as old as these hills, but its historic exterior hides perfectly modern, stylish and well-equipped rooms within, which have been conceived to maximise their eco-credentials; geothermal heating and air-conditioning systems allow for energy efficiency.

Seven spacious bedrooms are all on the top floor. Each is decorated with an eye to both their history and modern luxury. All feature double beds but many can convert to twin, and all feature ensuites with double basins and modern showers (the villa has one bath tub).

Air-conditioning throughout ensures comfort through the heat of summer, but screens at all windows mean that they can be thrown open come sundown, to let the breeze drift through.

The large, salt water pool is the perfect way to cool down from Tuscan heat, and the well-equipped poolhouse has its own bathroom and shower, making for an easy day lazing by the water. A barbecue, traditional wood oven, kitchen and covered dining space all make the most of the Mediterranean climate, allowing a truly outdoor-indoor lifestyle.