Spring Escapes in Tuscany

Peach and almond blossoms adorn ancient fruit trees, whilst swathes of climbing wisteria and scented jasmine envelop rustic pergolas. The Tuscan light is exceptionally beautiful in the spring, accentuating the silhouettes of lofty cypress trees, linear olive groves and the majestic towers of medieval towns.

From early spring, banks of scarlet poppies appear in abundant sweeps, whilst hedgerows reveal the striking azure blue of the Florentine iris. Spring is the most breath-taking period in which to discover Tuscany and this enchanting region attracts many artists, photographers and painters who draw inspiration from the landscape and architecture.

For food-lovers, this is the season when tender young vegetables find their way from garden to plate. Restaurant menus feature tiny baby artichokes, pencil thin zucchini and youthful salad leaves, all indulgently adorned with the finest organic olive oil. In the local towns and villages, tables and chairs return to the piazzas where cafes, bars and restaurants offer cappuccini, aperitivi and seasonal al-fresco lunches. Spring really is the perfect season in which to immerse yourself in the local Tuscan culture and learn the secrets of La Dolce Vita.

Beat the crowds and enjoy Tuscany at its most tranquil time of year from March to May. Sample an authentic taste of Tuscany before the summer season commences and the temperature rises. This captivating region of Italy has several excellent airports with numerous airlines offering daily flights to Pisa, Florence and Bologna.

Where to stay:

Relais San Sanino - Charming, unique resort near Montepulciano

Four suites are beautifully furnished with terracotta floors, wooden beams, refined fabrics, period furniture, travertine and marble, crystal showers, Jacuzzi with chromotherapy, Bang&Olufsen TV, iPod with AirMusic system. A mix that combines the magic of the past with the new technology to let you experience an extraordinary place. The property features an infinity swimming pool with salt water, surrounded by olive groves. Special Offer: 25% off one week stays in April and May 2018. Must be booked by Dec. 31, 2017. Offer Code: TuscanSpring18

https://www.sansanino.it/

Borgo Pignano – Historic country estate near Volterra

Borgo Pignano is an elegant country estate in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, just a short drive from the historic, hilltop towns of Volterra and San Gimignano and within easy reach of the medieval cities of Florence and Siena and the vineyards of Chianti. Borgo Pignano sits in the centre of a much cherished 750-acre organic estate and features a magnificent 18th century villa and an Etruscan hamlet. This sensitively restored estate, offers warm and gracious hospitality in a tranquil setting with some of the most breath-taking views in all of Tuscany.

www.borgopignano.com

Castello di Vicarello – Romantic Hilltop Castle

Resting elegantly on a hilltop with far-reaching views towards the Maremma coast, is a truly unique boutique hotel, Castello di Vicarello. An exclusive retreat that effortlessly captures the essence of contemporary luxury in Tuscany. Vicarello’s charming character and timeless aesthetic seamlessly combine historic architecture with elements of both classic and modern design. With two spacious pools, a boutique spa, two kitchen gardens and endless manicured lawns, guests of the 7 exclusive suites enjoy all the facilities of a luxurious private resort.

www.castellodivicarello.com

Vitigliano – Boutique residence near Florence

Vitigliano magically combines its significant Tuscan heritage with super-chic contemporary interiors. The property offers six elegantly appointed, luxurious suites set amidst 5 hectares of lavender scented gardens, this exclusive country house also offers a wellness spa, bath house, swimming pool, lounge terrace and cellar. An inspiring blend of contemporary and classic design, Vitigliano is a secluded, hi-end hideaway, a unique ‘bolthole’ with an abundance of charm just 35 minutes from the enchanting Renaissance city of Florence.

www.vitigliano.com

Follonico – Contemporary cool B&B near Montepulciano

A truly unique home-from-home, a lovingly restored farmhouse oozing both contemporary and rustic charm, Follonico has a relaxed sense of country chic, where super modern design elements rub shoulders with ancient architecture and antique furnishings. Follonico offers a country escape with a difference, a slower, simpler way a of life, where chickens, ducks and geese greet you in the morning and home-made bread and organic jams are served for breakfast. Just a short drive from Montepulciano Follonico is magically located in the heart of the Brunello wine region.

www.follonico.com (new website coming soon)

Borgo Argiano – Self Catering resort

Borgo Argiano is an elegant and exclusive country estate located in the centre of Chianti and just 20 minutes from the historic city of Siena. Argiano consists of 14 fully serviced apartments featuring comfortable living spaces, modern kitchen areas, sumptuous bedrooms, contemporary bathrooms and private terraces. The main building boasts an inviting clubhouse, professional kitchen, al-fresco drinks terrace and is surrounded by shaded courtyards. At the centre of the hamlet you will find a romantic chapel decorated with original frescos and bespoke stained-glass windows.

www.borgoargiano.com (new website coming soon)

Photos: Mark Bolton Photography