Chianti farm vacations - Agriturismo La Tinaia - Farmhouse apartments in Tuscany, Italy

The large garden provides a beautiful sweeping view over the Chianti hills (around Florence), and is perfect for eating al fresco. Either relax or enjoy a game of bowls or table tennis. Touring of Florence - a treasure house of art, sculpture and architecture, and the hub of the Reinnasance or venture further afield and check out marvellous mediaeval towns such as San Gimignano. This city of towers is probably the most famous small town in Italy - there are few places that evoke the atmosphere of mediaeval Tuscany so powerfully. In the middle ages, local families practised one-upmanship by competing to build the highest tower - the higher the tower, the richer your family. Fifteen of the original seventy-two towers still survive, making this little hilltop town a spectacular place to visit.

And at the very heart of the Chianti region, Siena rewards a day (or days) of exploration. It has a fine 12th century Gothic and Romanesque Cathedral built in stunning black and white marble, and one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1240. Its Campo is a unique mediaeval square at the heart of the city - quite possibly the most complete Gothic piazza in Italy. Siena is most famous for its Palio, the bare-backed horse-race which takes place every year in July and August around the huge Campo, and dating back to the 14th century. You'll find marvellous restaurants, cafes, bars and shops here.

Volterra, meanwhile, encloses 3,000 years of history within its fortifications - the first town wall was raised in the 4th century BC. Thanks to its isolated position, Volterra is unspoiled by the 21st century, retaining its mediaeval character. You will be able to visit Etruscan remains, the Roman baths, amphitheatre and Acropolis, museums and galleries, churches and the Duomo, or walk around the mediaeval wall and gates. There is Pisa, with its Leaning Tower and magnificently preserved mediaeval heart.

La Tinaia provides the perfect holiday in Tuscany in fact - with equal access to its idyllic countryside, and stunning cities and towns. Find out more by clicking the link below.