Villa Cassia Di Baccano ★★★★

If you truly want to immerse yourself into the Tuscan spirit and way of life, a retreat to the Cassia Di Baccano will do just the job.

Located next to the rolling green and gold Chianti hills, covered in vineyards and olive groves, Cassia Di Baccano is housed on an old farm, which once produced wine and milled olive oil.

The resort comprises two buildings set in amongst idyllic country gardens with trellis covered balconies – the old stone converted mill and the terracotta Villa Rossa manor house, which dates back to the 1900s.

Inside you’ll find that the interiors too ooze traditional Tuscan charm in the exposed brick walls, old wood beamed ceilings, and natural plaster-covered walls. Everything here is simple in its design, giving the whole resort an air of unsurpassed luxury.

Luxury is also seen in your private accommodation, not merely a room, but a generous suite comprising not only a bedroom, but also a large and sumptuous living room, kitchen and bathroom. A calming and tranquil space in natural colours and typical Tuscan touches in the tiles, terracotta pots and princess-like four-poster beds, you’re sure to feel relaxed and right at home. Settle in with a traditional Italian cappuccino made in your very own kitchen and relax in your cool and airy living room.

Just outside in the beautifully manicured gardens you’ll find more tranquil spots for relaxing, such as the secluded outdoor pool, hidden by hedgerows – ideal for bathing under the Tuscan sun.

Mornings here begin with a traditional local breakfast of fresh Italian coffee paired with pastries, breads and brioches in the resort’s breakfast room or in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Suitably raring to go the Italian way – with plenty of caffeine to start the day – you can begin to discover the beauty of the area, always with the picturesque Chianti hills as your backdrop. There are plenty of unique ways of exploring the Tuscan countryside here, from horse trekking in the hills to playing golf at one of the nearby courses or just a simple hike. Food lovers also have the chance to get to know the land through its cuisine, with plenty of food and wine tours on offer, as well as traditional Tuscan cooking classes.

Art lovers should of course spend a day visiting the famous city of Florence and its many museums such as the Uffizi Gallery or the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s David. History fans on the other hand may choose the attractive medieval town of Siena with its striking square and Gothic town hall.

Back at the hotel you can rejuvenate after a busy day with a personalised in-suite massage or even a yoga or meditation class, whilst staring out across the sunflower-gold landscape.

End your day by trying out your newly found Tuscan cooking skills in your very own kitchen, using fresh ingredients you bought in the local markets in Siena and Florence, and you will have surely have delved into the dolce vita.