Buonvisi

Inside, original details have been carefully preserved: cotto floors, beamed ceilings and antique fireplaces run throughout. The spacious kitchen centres around a grand fireplace, which comes into its own during cooler months. A large sitting room, a separate dining room and multiple fireplaces give the villa a sense of generous proportions without feeling overly formal. Wi-Fi, air conditioning, satellite TV, a DVD player and a hi-fi system are all in place.

The eight bedrooms are split across two floors, each with its own en-suite bathroom. Two doubles on the ground floor suit those who prefer to stay on one level. Upstairs, you will find the master bedroom with a bathtub and separate shower, two twin rooms and three further doubles. Some bathrooms have showers, others bathtubs. The pool measures ten by five metres and overlooks the plains of Lucca, while the garden offers shaded spots for eating outdoors.

Lucca is just 12 kilometres away, and Pisa's international airport sits within 37 kilometres, so getting here is straightforward. The Versilia coast, with Forte dei Marmi, Pietrasanta and Viareggio, is a short drive west. Nearby, you can visit some of the Lucchese area's most storied historical villas. English-speaking staff can arrange private chef services, Tuscan cooking classes and concierge support throughout your stay. Daily cleaning is included.