The historic delights of Tuscany’s vibrant countryside

In the silver embrace of olive trees, emerald fields and artfully chiselled topiaries, the Villa di Piazzano is a gift offered to us from the medieval era, a nod to the perseverance of beauty and the timelessness of nature’s call. 

Originally a hunting estate for Cardinal Silvio Passerini, this Residenza d’Epoca was ‘born’ into nobility in 1464, and remained under the protection of the Medici family for centuries afterwards. It was even repurposed into a convent, with a bell tower that holds the coat of arms representative of its imposing lineage still visible to this day; moreover, odes to its origins can be glimpsed throughout the property, many of which date back to before the Renaissance.

To be invited inside is to be ushered into an era that unleashes the imagination, with an entrance parlour that’s lit by chandeliers and appointed with centennial paintings. Its ceilings are arched to reflect its long history; here, one can enjoy a long chess game in candlelight or flip through a literary work that highlights the many cultural offerings of Tuscany.

Among these, the most prominent (and closest in proximity) may be Cortona, a town with a fairytale feel in Arezzo just between Siena and Umbria that’s teeming with buildings with a uniquely rustic allure. Here, craftsmen bring hand-hewn furnishings to life in their weathered ateliers, while its main piazza is an ideal place to people watch in the cool shade of its historic town hall. For an in-depth view of its past, one has but to pay a visit to the Etruscan Museum, set within the Palazzo Casali; its artefacts date back as far as the 5^th Century B.C. Art aficionados will particularly appreciate its Diocesan Museum, home to the “Annunciation” by renowned painter Beato Angelico from 1430, part of a collection of poignant pieces that take the mind on a journey through time itself.

This distinctively aristocratic charm is just as present throughout the Villa di Piazzano and its luxurious rooms, each with its own style so as to remain absolutely memorable to its visitors. Countryside views, pastel walls, slatted ceilings and sumptuous furnishings meet the mark for elegance, a place to rest one’s head in tailored surrounds; many of its Deluxe Rooms feature skylights that see to a night sky dotted with stars, four poster beds, and delightful paintings. Its Garden Suite is a spacious haven with a broad archway, personal sitting room, double rain shower and French window that leads out to a pebbled pavilion. 

In the peaceful outdoors, the sweet scents of lavender, jasmine and gardenias, as well as the welcoming shade cast by lime trees and cypresses create a setting for peaceful introspection, leisurely walks and joyous diversions. In its garden, fresh aromatics and crisp vegetables feed its kitchen with the most delicious of flavours, used for a myriad of delicacies that awaken the senses whilst following the hotel’s gastronomic philosophy. Here, original recipes are in the spotlight, using local produce sourced sustainably; every dish is plated with care for guests and consideration for the environment.

At L’Antica Casina di Caccia, fine dining by Chef Raffaele Serafini showcases Italy’s culinary masterpieces at a restaurant that’s recommended by the Michelin Guide. Here, the balmy summer months invite guests to savour an al fresco experience beneath the oaks, lit by the day’s sweet farewell during the rose-and-plum-coloured sunset hours. A symphony of winking light that illustrates the gorgeous allure of Villa di Piazzano, in a rush of colours, sounds and scents that dazzle the mind and warm the heart in the peaceful Italian countryside.