The historic Villa Cetinale

Renting a villa in Tuscany is on almost everyones bucket list and for seriously good reasons. Included in each stay: peach-toned sunsets, cerulean blue skies, vineyard-covered hillsides perfumed with jasmine-scented air, whats not to love? Maximize your exposure to as much bucolic Tuscan splendor as you can with a stay in any one of these villas. Some are expertly-run hotels while others are private rentals, and all will deliver on the best the Italian countryside has to offer.

Castello Delle Quattro Torra

Bunk in an ancient castle just ten minutes from the popular Tuscan town of Siena. The property features a Medieval courtyard, original stonework and timbered ceilings. Consider booking the Tower Roomliterally in the castle towerfor the best wraparound views of Tuscanys countryside. Their restaurant, Le Pietre Vive, makes magic out of local provisions and cooking classes are always on offer. Partake of a truffle hunt in season or just spend your time exploring the many attractions in and around Siena.

I Bianchi Villa at Toscana Resort Castelfalfi

Everything from golf and tennis to a new range of wellness programming (guided hikes, organic facials) is on offer at this sprawling Tuscan retreat. Book one of the many villas (several are located along the golf course) for the ultimate in privacy. Consider, I Bianchi, a 6,000-foot artfully restored farmhouse with 5 bedrooms, pool and pool house as well as a fitness center and lavish garden. Three restaurants are on-site as well as the resorts winery and olive orchard. Guests can even adopt a vineyard row or olive grove and partake in harvest.

Il Borro's Villa Dimora Il Borro

The alluring Medieval history of Il Borro seduced the Ferragamo family (who rented the property for years) into becoming its official owners in 1993. Since that time the Ferragamos have restored the buildings and surrounding 1,700 acres into a grand estate property that boasts several private villas. Spend your time in cooking classes, tasting wine at the Il Borro Winery, or playing tennis, cycling and hiking. Built in 1854, the ten-bedroom Dimora Il Borro Villa sits In the very the heart of the estate, restored with integrity, it features architectural elements of 19th century Tuscan villas but also modern amenities such as a heated indoor swimming pool and gym . A full-time staff is on hand to cater to any need.

Villa il Poggiale

This stunning Renaissance villa near San Casciano in Val di Pesa was also once the family home of the Vitta family, who ultimately decided to restore the historic property and open it to guests. Interiors feature frescoed walls, high ceilings, antique furnishings and textiles from local Tuscan weavers. The vibe is distinctly personal as the family intended, making this more of a private stay in someones home rather than a hotel. Be sure to book a treatment at their wellness centerwe suggest the olive oil bath or a massage with resveratrol oil. Cooking lessons at the on-site restaurant (which features family recipes and historic Tuscan dishes) can be designed to your desires.

Villa Segale

A six bedroom stunner tucked into the upper western edge of Tuscany, within easy distance of the UNESCO coastal towns of Cinque Terre and Portofino and the internationally acclaimed wines of Bolgheri. The historic home dates back to the 11th century, the ceilings with their ancient chestnut beams and custom made wrought-iron beds (handmade by one the greatest craftsman in Arezzo) lend this property character and authenticity. Spned your time in the airy, sunlit rooms or on one of the leafy patios overlooking a hillside vineyard, or enjoy panoramic vistas from your poolside perch. A private chef can be arranged.

Villa Podere Panico

Located in a nest of rolling hills, this 400 year-old farmhouse is just outside of Siena. Airy and spacious, the property boasts a hot tub, wood-burning fireplace and an epic infinity pool with sweeping Tuscan views. Modern furnishings compliment the historic wood beam ceilings and brick archwasy throughout the home. Oversizwe dining table and chefs kitchen are ideal for hosting a crowd. Some bedrooms open out onto the terrace. Equipped with a gym to work off the pasta, or embrace the experience completely and idle in the hot tub underneath the stars.

Airbnb

Edith Wharton once praised the lush gardens of this splendid Baroque home. Constructed in 1651, this estate offers acres of manicured greenery to wander, you and your guests might opt to play tennis in the lemon grove, or enjoy a chef-prepared meal poolside. Twelve beautifully styled bedrooms, several with canopied beds, large dining tables al fresco or inside, and a massive chefs kitchen round out the amenities. The antiques, furnishings, sculpture and artwork evoke the original charm and splendor of this villas original ambiance. Relax and savor the privacy, swim in the lap pool or explore wine experiences at the nearby Tuscan Wine School of Siena.

Excerpt from:
The Best Villas In Tuscany - Forbes