If you've always wanted to immerse yourself in all that Tuscany has to offer, this villa for rent in Italy checks all the boxes. A large country farm built in 1798, surrounded by the lush green Val d'Orcia and Val di Chana, it was recently renovated using all-natural local materials, and it boasts elegant gardens with a large pool, oak, olive and fruit trees, and patches of untouched nature. At night, lights, candles and stars transform the terrace into a magical place to dine.

Speaking of dining, this may be the villa's biggest draw. There's an exclusive on-site Ristorantino, run by Chef Francesco, who can prepare lunches and dinners for guests, sharing local specialties and traditional Tuscan recipes. Guests are invited to take part in informal cooking classes and pizza parties, using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Learn how to turn water and flour into tagliatelle, ravioli and fettuccine, and savor the smells of delicious simmering sauces. 

As if this weren't enough to stir the heart of any foodie, you'll receive a welcome basket on arrival, with fruit, homemade sweets and drinks, as well as a welcome dinner to familiarize you with the home and staff. Plus the pantry with be filled with all the basics you'll need for your stay. Buon appetito!

This extra-large property sleeps 12 adults in six bedrooms, all equipped with bathrooms (five with showers and one with a tub). One additional bedroom has two single beds for children or teenagers.

The ground floor of the house has a dining room with large wooden table and fireplace, adjacent to its large, well-equipped kitchen. It leads directly to the garden, terrace and swimming pool. On the same level, there's a living room with books, satellite TV and kids' DVDs. Adjacent to that is a wisteria-draped pergola with a table for eight, the ideal location for afternoon aperitifs. There are three bedrooms on this level, with an additional, external area with two bedrooms.

Upstairs is the Salon del Gran Camino, a large, bright living room with sweeping views, big comfy sofas, a pallet stove and satellite TV. There are two bedrooms, one with a shower and the other with a copper tub.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

The very discreet owner lives in a nearby structure and offers 24/7 concierge service. She can help arrange cooking classes, Italian lessons, tennis, horse riding, and qi gong lessons, and can give advice on the best mountain bike trails, day trips to historical sites, wine and olive oil tastings, and wellness treatments.

This villa for rent in Italy can host small events or weddings for 30 indoors and 70 in the outdoor garden. The owners take care of the catering and help provide a wedding planner, lights, music or anything else required.

AROUND

San Casciano dei Bagni is a commune in the Province of Siena about 110km southeast of Florence and 70km southeast of Siena. The village itself is famous for its thermal waters. Explore the narrow streets of ancient village, with its lovely views across the Val di Paglia, and follow the trail to visit all the publicly-accessible hot springs, or vasconi. The Bagno Grande is easily reachable on foot from the main square, and the pools are comfortable year round, thanks to temperatures of about 39° centigrade.

LOCATION

San Casciano dei Bagni, Tuscany, Italy. Nearest airport: Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi – Umbria International Airport (36 miles).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round, but April to October for best weather.