Gourmet getaway: Farneta

The essence of italy: classical landscapes, mediaeval towns, olives, sunflowers, vineyards Mouthwatering Tuscan cuisine, world-famous wines Renaissance, Etruscan, and Roman treasures Cosy and intimate **** converted villa

Villa Pestrichio
Built on the highest hill in Farneta, on the Tuscany/Umbria border, this beautiful villa has been sensitively converted into a small **** hotel yet still very much retains the feeling of a genuine family home. Much of the original architecture, dating to the 14th century, is still evident: the dovecote, the internal red brick arches, the wooden beamed ceilings and the 14th century Tuscan style furniture. All bedrooms are individually decorated in their own style, with individual colour schemes, and all have names rather than numbers. All are en suite with traditional décor blending in well with modern comforts: TV, telephone and minibar.

The dining room is cosy and intimate and offers a mouth-watering blend of traditional Tuscan, Umbrian and Lazian cuisines. House specialities include refined risottos, fine game, charcoal-grilled meats and exquisitely tempting desserts. Rare Brunello wines, vintage Chaintis and white 'vino nobile' all add to the gastronomic experience. There is a lovely living room for pre and post dinner drinks.

During the day, you may well just want to relax on the flower-filled terrace by the swimming pool and soak up the magnificent views out across the Val di Chiana. Or you could drive/take a taxi to mediaeval Cortona (important Etruscan settlement with lots of lovely squares, churches and cobbled alleyways) or Arezzo (renowned for its gold, antiques, Roman amphitheatre and beautiful Renaissance buildings). If you have a car, then it is an excellent base for exploring all the must see sights of both Tuscany and Umbria.