The hills surrounding Pistoia are unique in that modern sounds seem to be absorbed into them and return as birdsong that lifts your heart and carries one into the world of poets and romantic scribes. Their wooded slopes harbour a wide range of flora and fauna and are perfect for foraging or simple strolls to stretch ones legs while admiring the views. Olive groves rustle invitingly in the breeze as the sound of crunchy gravel underfoot takes you on to new horizons and ever better views.

Situated in this wonderful area is the Villa Santa Maria, converted some years ago from a far simpler 19th Century grain store, it offers renovated spacious accommodation decorated in an uncomplicated and uncluttered style that is perfect for parties with young children. Bright and airy rooms with whitewashed walls, vaulted and beamed ceilings, cotto floors: everything that signifies a Tuscan villa is here. Relax and unwind while lunch cooks on the barbecue adding the scents of rosemary and highly scented olive oil to an already heady mix. The olive groves, where the oil production begins, surround the local estate of Montalbano and guests are free to roam through them at their leisure.

There is much to see and do in the immediate area just remember that a holiday is meant to be relaxing so take time out for a dip in the pool and a little sun worshipping too. Immediately outside the house there is a covered pergola with table and chairs, and leisurely meals may be enjoyed under the shade of a gazebo overlooking the olive groves and the picture postcard perfect Tuscan panorama.

Local distances: The nearest shop is about 700m away and the nearest village a mere 2km downhill. The slightly larger village of Casalguidi has a number of shops, small bars and restaurants and is only 4km away. The historic town of Pistoia 10 km, Empoli (for outlets) 27 km, Vinci (birthplace of Leonardo) 19 km, Collodi for the parco di Pinocchio 36 km, San Miniato 31 km. Florence lies 41 km to the east and Lucca 45 km to the west with Pisa at 72 km. Viareggio 70 km and the Versilian coast are closest for beaches or the Pisan coast at 86 km (Tirrenia) is also good. Tennis courts may be found 2 km away and for lovers of a good walk spoiled (golfers), there is a course within a 15-minute drive.

Recommended airports: Florence (Meridiana only) 38 km, Pisa 78 km,
Bologna 124 km, Bologna Forli (Ryanair) 162 km.

5 bedrooms / 3 bathrooms GROUND FLOOR: Kitchen, dining room, TV/sitting room, bathroom/wc, shower room/wc, games room with table tennis. FIRST FLOOR: 1 double and 4 twin bedrooms, bathroom/wc. FACILITIES: There is a dishwasher, washing machine, satellite TV, video and telephone. Cot and high chair. Barbecue. PRIVATE SWIMMING POOL Fenced 5.5 x 11 metres floodlit pool with diving board. Open mid May to end September weather permitting. NOTES: Maid service 5 days per week included in the price. Babysitting and cooking possible by prior arrangement. Central heating available for winter lets. This property may be booked for parties of up to 14 persons with the addition of an apartment set within the grounds (not sold separately). See Santa Maria (14).