Villa Gelmini enjoys a lovely, peaceful setting within a valley overlooking the iconic countryside of the Val di Chiana. Walk through picture-postcard landscapes and reach the nearest village in around 15 minutes. The village has a typical Tuscan feel and has a small selection of amenities that include a bank, pharmacy, supermarket and restaurant.
Hilltop Lucignano is one of the most striking medieval towns in the area, with buildings set in concentric rings creating a labyrinth effect. Must-sees include the Church of San Francesco and the Museo Civico with its impressive art collection. Also visit the ruins of a Medici castle that lie just outside the town walls.
Around a 30-minute drive away is Cortona, with numerous historic sites of interest to tick off your sightseeing list. The Etruscan Museum is full of ancient artefacts that tell the town's story from its earliest days. There's also an Archaeological Park with sites that include city fortifications and remains of Roman roads. Palazzo del Popolo and the cathedral date back to the Renaissance era.
A beautiful place to pass a few hours is Lake Trasimeno Regional Park. Swim, enjoy long hikes through dramatic landscapes and relax with some bird watching. Also take a boat trip over to the islands Isola Maggiore and Isola Minore.
Slightly further afield is stunning Siena. An hour's drive will bring you to the city and its iconic structures, such as Pizza del Campo, the city hall and Torre del Mangia. Climb to the top of this tower for phenomenal views. Also visit Piazza del Duomo; home to the Piccolomini Library and a majestic cathedral.