Cottages in Tuscany

Expect to see extraordinarily beautiful countryside with saffron colored rolling hills, iconic cypress groves and sun splashed al fresco spaces in this unique heritage region situated in the western part of central Italy. Food and wine lovers are in for a treat with simple, rustic, delectable Tuscan fare and fine wines. Hikers and ramblers can wander along mountain paths with breathtaking views while cyclists can traverse hills and dales with the stunningly beautiful rugged coastline and islands making Tuscany a magnet for summer vacationers.

These charming, rustic, stone cottage rentals are perfect for a wonderfully comfortable family holiday adventure or families of four exploring the Tuscan countryside and many of the properties are pet friendly! Many of these lovely, fully equipped, Tuscan rental properties have a sparkling private pool and a yard or a terrace for al fresco dining and star gazing! Return to your rental cottage after an enthralling day exploring the rich art and architectural heritage of the region and marveling at the majestic surroundings and exquisite historical towns and villages. Relish a cooling dip in the pool and a relax in a peaceful garden haven in the heart of Toscana!

There are many classic Tuscan walks for hikers to enjoy through the Tuscan countryside passing gorgeous ancient olive groves and charming, rustic Italian villas far from main roads and the clamor of city life. Stroll past vineyards and ancient towns where ochre painted stucco and cobbled streets provide the setting for stunning views and enjoying a magical day out in the fabled Tuscan countryside in all seasons. There are hiking routes suitable for all ages and abilities. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day of exploring the stunning historical and scenic heritage of this iconic part of Italy on foot.

Tuscany’s citta’ di arte or cities of art are world renowned. Florence, Siena, Pisa, Arezzo, Cortona, San Gimignano and Lucca are all within easy driving distance from your Tuscan rental cottage. These strikingly beautiful historical towns and cities are where Tuscany’s opulent and ancient art heritage can be seen in a variety of museums and art galleries situated in gorgeous stone clad, hilltop towns and villages with quaint, cobbled streets amidst the warm, glorious, unforgettable tints and hues of a medieval paintbox.

Marvel at the gigantic, marble-fronted Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore that dates back to 1296 and take in the magical red tile roofs, domes and exquisite spires of the Florence skyline in this incredibly interesting Renaissance city that boasts a rich and wonderful architectural heritage. Be sure to stop at the Uffizi gallery on the serene banks of the River Arno where the most priceless artworks by the greatest artists of The Renaissance can be admired.

This gloriously scenic valley begins in the undulating hills south of Siena and it is here that visitors can experience the distinctive picture postcard Tuscan landscape where gentle hills dotted with dark green cypress and spruce give way to a verdant carpet of vineyards, olive groves and farmland. Stop for Tuscan fare in the historic town of Pienza for a perfect ending to a day out living “la dolce vita”, the sweet life, in Italy!

Sienna is famous for unforgettably beautiful medieval brick buildings and has long been considered Italy’s loveliest medieval city. Be sure to stop for a cappuccino on the iconic Piazza del Campo where you can admire the graceful bell tower and distinctive Gothic architectural beauty and sample the wonderful, historical ambience of one of Italy’s finest piazzas in this remarkably well preserved historical city. In July and August the piazza is transformed into a spectacular horse racing track where an ancient, exciting, colorful, medieval competitive horse race takes place!

Elba is a fairytale island 10 km off the Tuscan coast where rocky cliffs are studded with heritage,Tuscan architecture and a range of gorgeous, secluded, rugged, cliff backed coves with dazzling white sand beaches and startling sapphire blue waters provide the perfect place for summer swimming and sunbathing. There is a wonderful hike for the adventurous up Capanne Mount with an unforgettable panorama of the island and the Mediterranean from the summit. There is also a cable car for visitors wishing to travel up the mountain. Visitors will enjoy delectable regional seafood dishes flavored with local spices in rustic trattorias on this Mediterranean island paradise that is easily accessible from the mainland by ferry.

Look no further than the red tile roofs and burned ombre and ochres of beautiful Lucca where some of Tuscany’s most legendary examples of Romanesque architecture can be appreciated. Climb the tree shaded top of the Guinigi Tower or stroll or cycle along the wide, tree lined walls that enclose the city. Browse market stalls and admire the gorgeous, shimmering, golden exterior mosaics of the church of San Frediano. Most restaurants in Lucca offer the delicious, local pasta speciality, tortelli lucchese and visitors are in for a treat with other local dishes like rabbit and salt cod.

Perched 600m high up on a limestone ridge, this small, medieval, hilltop town boasts exquisite views of the surrounding countryside. Admire stunning Renaissance architecture and sample the famous Vino Nobile wine harvested from lush, verdant, local vineyards. This jewel of a town is considered one of the best kept secrets in Tuscany!

The steep, rugged, wild cliffs and rich Mediterranean scrub of the spectacular Calafuria nature reserve are a short drive south of Livorno. The jagged coastland forms a dramatic backdrop for the crystalline coves of the Tyrrhenian Sea where wonderful tanning spots and breathtaking sunsets make this a must see summer stop over. This is a perfect location for snorkeling fans who can expect to enjoy the marvelous biodiversity of a pristine coral reef in this protected coastal wonderland!