Florence is a holiday in itself. The home of Michelangelo, Botticelli and the Medici, of the Ponte Vecchio and the Neptune Fountain; the birthplace of modern art, sculpture and commerce, and the centre of the Renaissance - there won't be enough days in your holiday to see all of Florence.
Siena lies at the heart of the valley of Chianti in Tuscany. 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 over 750 years ago in 1240. Its Piazzo del Campo is a unique medieval square at the heart of the city - quite possibly the most complete Gothic piazza in Italy. Siena is probably most famous for its Palio, the bare-backed horse-race which take place every year in July and August around the huge Campo, and dating back to the 14th century.
San Gimignano, meanwhile is probably the most famous small town in Italy - there are few places that evoke the atmosphere of mediaeval Tuscany so powerfully. Its 15 towers soar into the sky, making this little hilltop town a spectacular place to visit. And when you've had enough of cities and culture, the coast is about 100km distance.
Nearby the estate are the villages of Belforte, which has a bar, food store and restaurant, and Radicondoli, with a bank, pharmacy, bar, restaurants, tobacconists and newsagents. 30km away, at Colle Val d'Elsa, there is a large Co-op supermarket.
Pets are permitted at the houses, and the owners will do everything they can to make your Tuscan vacation a delight. Contact them to find out about prices and availability.
