Set in an organically certified, 200-acre olive estate beneath the magnificent Apennine mountains, this 17th-century hamlet is agriturismo perfection. Corrado and English Cornelia, have lovingly renovated it whilst also raising a family. Follow a winding five-kilometre drive through chestnut, hazelnut and oak forest (ensuring utter seclusion), be greeted by charming Cornelia, decant into rooms beautifully designed with Arabian (not Tuscan) flair; both spent time in Abu Dhabi. Find exquisite rugs on cotto floors, raw beams, antique screen bedheads, richly textured cushions, delicious cotton bedding, little chandeliers, creaky trunks, glass bedside lights, and breezy bathrooms with free-standing tubs and monogrammed towels… all feels uncluttered and balanced. La Tavolata, their restaurant, serves delicious estate-produced meals (game in season) against sensational valley sunsets. There’s loads to do both on the estate and off – this is heaven for free-range kids. And, with secluded nooks, poolside daybeds and hammocks in secluded crannies, it’s pretty nice for adults too. Oh, and a haunted ruin!
