LUXURY HOLIDAY VILLAS IN ITALY, TURKEY AND SPAIN

Redecorated annually, Fonte Pico is a small (but perfectly formed) private cottage with swimming pool in Tuscany has been furnished in a classically Italian style, is comfortable, modern and wants for nothing. The cottage stands within an extremely large landscaped garden with ponds, topiary, secret gardens and exotic flower and fruit trees requiring a full time gardener (Lorenzo), so expect to see him occasionally as he potters about.

The charming owner was involved with the world of fashion and design (mostly hand made wedding dresses); she is a true Tuscan lady in all respects, hospitable, helpful and always vivacious. On a whim she created the wisteria covered terrace that flowers in late May, on another she planted jasmine so that it would cover the pergola and scent the air through summer: al fresco dining takes on a whole new dimension at this extremely pretty villa.

Sarteano is the quintessential Tuscan hilltop village, surrounded by miles of olive groves and the Montepulciano vineyards this is where the Sun comes for its holidays. Enjoy a scenery and way of life unchanged for centuries, unspoiled views, winding country lanes, quiet, peaceful and above all relaxing.

Avid birdwatchers will love the WWF reserve at Lake Chiusi, shoppers will love the nearby towns as they all hold a wealth of fashion conscious Tuscan negozi (shops). Lovers of archeology will need to seek out the Tomb of the Monkey and local Etruscan heriatge. There is much to see and do in this area and sightseeing in the many pretty small hill top towns will require a break of more than just two weeks!

Local distances: Shops, bars, a supermarket, tennis courts and restaurants can be found in Sarteano 3 km, Cetona 11 km has more facilities and Chiusi 12 km has some excellent restaurants and an Etruscan museum. Go to Chiusi Stazione 14 km and you’ll find an even cheaper restaurant, the station to Rome and even more shops. Golf, chic shopping and thermal baths in Chianciano Terme 18 km, Montepulciano for wine 22 km, Pienza 26 km, Montalcino & Buonconvento 30km, Siena needs no introduction 37 km. The fabulous Bata shoe outlet store can be found at the Shopping Centre Poggio Etrusco near the motorway exit 3 km. And for the cowboy in you, horse riding is closeby at 6 km; see Tuscany from horseback as centuries of Tuscans have done.

Recommended airports: Florence 92 km, Perugia 95 km, Pisa 142 km, Bologna 152 km, Rome Ciampino 177km.