Stylishly Lavish Tuscan Retreats

This scenic area has been the inspiration for countless paintings and architectural accomplishments and the cities of Florence and Pisa are considered amongst the most beautiful in the world.

With any luxurious getaway to this extraordinary region, you need to pick suitably lavish accommodation. Tuscany villa specialist, Tuscany Now, has put together a selection of some of the most sumptuous villas in Tuscany to show you how to enjoy a truly Tuscan getaway in style.

La Rocca di Rasina (pictured above)

Beautiful La Rocca is an historic castle dating back over a thousand years, positioned high in the hills on the Tuscan-Umbrian border within 800 acres of private land. The vast yet charming building was once a defensive castle, but is now a sumptuous holiday setting with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

La Rocca is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing Tuscan retreat, stroll through the gated park with its sweeping lawns, enjoy a meal underneath the pergola in the courtyard, take a dip in the enticing pool and marvel at the exquisite antique furnishings throughout the building. It's also fully staffed, so you can relax and let others do the hard work for you.

This immaculate property is ideal for taking time out and enjoying company, with dining and sleeping space for up to 20 people. Prices start from £7,410 per week.

Villa di Bagnolo

The beautifully restored 18th Century Villa di Bagnolo is situated on a wine and olive oil estate and offers spectacular views across the Tuscan countryside. Being just 9 miles from Florence means that, whilst you're far enough from the hustle and bustle to be surrounded by peaceful olive groves and lush green lawns, you can easily pay a visit to this fascinating city to spend time soaking up the culture, entertainment and fine dining. There's also an 18-hole golf course and riding stables within 10 minutes of the villa. Not that you'd ever need to travel far from home, as this beautiful manor house has a large infinity edge pool and two all-weather tennis courts to keep you entertained.

Villa di Bagnolo sleeps between 6 to 14 people and comes with its own maid, waitress and cook, leaving you free to unwind in the lap of luxury. Prices start from £3,718 per week.

Villa La Trappola

If you're looking for a romantic break or small family getaway, look no further than pretty La Trappola. This delightful cottage is situated on dramatic cliffs with a stunning pool and sun deck directly overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and Monte Argentario's coastline.

Nearby Porto Stefan and Porto Ercole boast a wonderful range of waterside restaurants, or you can stay at the villa and enjoy sipping cocktails surrounded by olive groves, spectacular views and beautiful scenery.

This cosy getaway villa sleeps between two and six people, with a vine-shaded terrace complete with barbeque and open kitchen. Price starts at £1,631 per week.

Il Villino

Complete with its own Jacuzzi, steam shower and small gym Il Villino is filled with all the luxuries needed to make a stay in this tastefully restored farmhouse an indulgent pleasure. Located near Montepulciano on the Tuscan-Umbrian border, Il Villino is also home to a beautifully furnished poolhouse as well as shaded outdoor dining and sitting areas. The rooms are filled with antiques and the fan-shaped pool is surrounded by lush lawns.

The nearby area offers a wealth of fun opportunities for exploring villages and castles, boating and windsurfing on the lake, golf courses and incredible restaurants for indulging in fine food and wine.

Il Villino sleeps from 8 to 12 people and prices starts from £3,320 per week.

Podere Celli

For a truly Tuscan country retreat, look no further than Podere Celli, a picture-perfect Tuscan farmhouse nestled amongst the vineyards of Chianti. Its charming rustic exterior houses fully renovated interiors with hand-painted murals and intimate sitting areas, staying true to the history of this beautiful building. The grassy grounds offer shaded dining areas, a tranquil pool, soothing sauna and seemingly endless views across Chianti.

You won't be able to resist setting out into the surrounding hills, as this local area offers wonderful opportunities for walking, biking and exploring the wineries of the region, plus Siena and Florence are just 40 minutes' drive away.

This enchanting retreat sleeps between 16 and 22 people and, with cosy sitting areas and two large fireplaces, is ideal for both winter and summer getaways. Prices start from £6,567 per week.

For more information on these villas or to see others throughout the region, visit www.tuscanynow.com.