Villa Caterina

A rural escape in the middle of the Val d'Orcia in southern Tuscany, traditional stone farmhouse Villa Caterina blends effortlessly into the countryside. The villa's idyllic location offers you a wonderfully quiet atmosphere in which to soak up the sweeping views and the magnificent hilltop fortress in Radicofani can also clearly seen in all its splendour.

And though Villa Caterina is secluded, the town of Radicofani itself is only a five-minute drive away. Many other villages and towns are easy to reach too. There's Sarteano with a wealth of ancient history to offer and San Cascinao dei Bagni; famous for its thermal baths.

This typical, five-bedroom Tuscan farmhouse set over three floors has undergone a careful restoration in recent years. Mixing traditional features, such as wood-beamed ceilings and tile floors, with modern luxuries has transformed it into both a comfortable and striking holiday home. You'll also be surprised by objects from across the world found in many of its characterful rooms.

The most unique aspect of Villa Caterina is the wall art that depicts local rural scenes and a colourful depiction of wildlife. Relax in the main living room with its stunning fireplace, then move to the dining room for a delicious meal with a glorious mural as a backdrop. The two other living spaces are also full of character.

All five bedrooms and bathrooms have their own personality, with a different mural and colour scheme. And each has an ensuite bathroom or shower room; several of which boast a chromotherapy shower for a super-soothing experience.

Villa Caterina sits within 10 hectares of traditional Mediterranean gardens. Cool off in the pool on sunny afternoons and spend evenings on the covered terrace with great food, drinks and company. The romantic pergola is another lovely place to take in the peaceful scenery all around you.

In less than 10 minutes you could drive to the town of Radicofani and be well on your way to the top of famous Fortezza di Radicofani. You could also be strolling around the tranquil park and gardens of Bosco Isabella.

The medieval towns of Cetona and San Casciano dei Bagni are short drives away. Cetona also has an impressive fortress to visit; 10th-century La Rocca. San Casciano dei Bagni is particularly known for its thermal baths, along with Chianciano Terme, which is around a 40-minute drive from the villa.