Gates of Paradise

In the green hills of Mugello, this villa offers the peace and tranquillity of the countryside but is just a forty-minute drive from Florence. Head to Italy’s capital of culture to explore the endless collections of the Ufizzi and dine overlooking the Ponte Vecchio. The home itself is traditionally stone-built, with the wooden ceilings on show, an old hearth in the dining room and the farm’s well still on display. Sprawling grounds house a swimming pool with a view over the rolling hills beyond, and a rustic-style loggia for outdoor dining – perfect when you're serving something cooked with fresh vegetables straight from the home's veggie patch. The stone-built, wood-fired barbecue is ideal for summer evenings. Apart from Tuscan farmhouse tradition, inside you’ll find some vintage touches like a wireless radio from the early 20th century, and antique furnishings. The old kitchen has been preserved with museum-like care (with a traditional bread over that still works), but the modern kitchen is a sleek, professional affair with slate-grey units and a huge island at its core. The town of Scarperia e San Piero is a four-minute drive away to stock up on supplies and there’s even a country restaurant just behind this home if you don’t fancy driving. Home truths: *Your host can provide a cot, high chair, stroller and baby food cooker for infants, just ask *Air conditioning and heating are available but they cost extra on request *There is plenty of parking behind the villa's secure gates