The Stuff of Dreams

With a truly picturesque location in the Chianti hills, this rustic villa is the ideal choice for anybody that has fantasised at any point about eloping to Tuscany for a short while — which is surely most people, right? Thanks to the elevated position, the address benefits from sweeping views of the countryside and these can be admired while dining on the terrace or gliding through the swimming pool, which is shared with the other four houses in the tiny village. Once you step through the home's large vaulted entrance — formerly the property's stables — you'll be greeted with an interior heavy on period features, including the fireplace, wooden ceiling beams and antique furnishings. The walls are covered in a great variety of artwork, while the four-poster beds add an extra touch of grandeur. When it comes to days out, you're firmly in wine territory here and there are local vineyards to visit not too far from the home. There are walking routes to embark upon too, but a day trip to the city of Florence — about three-quarters of an hour away in the car — is just as doable. Home truths: *Guests who stayed here said the road to the house was quite bumpy and steep, though it should be doable with any vehicle. *The pool here is shared with other guests. *The kitchen is on the upper floor, so this home might not be the best option for those with reduced mobility. *Some guests thought the traditional design here felt a little dated.