Honey & Lavender

A trip to rustic Tuscany is always a good idea – and staying in this beautiful home seals the deal. This gorgeous pale stone house is tucked just outside of the small town of Palazzone in the Tuscan countryside. Far-reaching views of the lush countryside of Tuscany and Umbria make for a magnificent backdrop, complementing the centuries-old trees, olive groves, and meadows that surround the home. This is an idyll, where the scent of lavender carries on the breeze. The garden is a haven of tranquillity and natural beauty. Float in the swimming pool while you watch bees bob around the flowers, the hum of insects the only sound to disturb the peace. Spend hours at the alfresco dining table, turning languid lunches into lively dinners as the sun sinks in the sky and the wine is poured more freely. When the Tuscan sun is at its strongest, shelter in the traditional living room, beneath wooden beams. The villa is cool and calm, with enough room for everyone to enjoy their own space. You might like to drive out to explore the region, popping into Palazzone to eat pizza in the much-loved restaurant. The town is famous for its wine production, and is a far offshoot of the Chianti region – you can happily spend an afternoon or two visiting the local vineyards and sampling the wine. Your host’s family produces their own wine and olive oil – add some freshly baked bread and local cheese, and you have the makings of a perfect lunch. Home truths: *Due to the location of this home, we recommend hiring a car to get the most out of your stay *The swimming pool is open from May 16th until September 26th *This home is spread over two floors so may not be suitable for those with limited mobility – the ground-floor bedroom and bathroom are only accessible via a small staircase *The swimming pool is cleaned twice a week *Your host has arranged for twice-weekly cleaning of the house *There’s no air conditioning here but the house stays cool even in summer *Your host can provide a cot and high chair for little ones *Though there isn't a dedicated desk here, the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace