Easter marks the start of a glorious season in Tuscany, with the warmth of the spring sunshine bringing new life to the Tuscan hills. Almond blossoms adorn ancient trees, while swathes of climbing wisteria and scented jasmine envelop rustic pergolas. The Tuscan light is exceptionally beautiful in the spring, accentuating the silhouettes of lofty cypress trees, linear olive groves and the majestic towers of medieval towns.
From early spring, banks of scarlet poppies appear in abundant sweeps, whilst hedgerows reveal the striking azure blue of the Florentine iris. Spring is the most breath-taking period in which to discover Tuscany and this enchanting region attracts many artists, photographers and painters who draw inspiration from the landscape and architecture.
For food-lovers, this is the season when tender young vegetables find their way from garden to plate. Restaurant menus feature tiny baby artichokes, pencil-thin zucchini and youthful salad leaves, all indulgently adorned with the finest organic olive oil. In the local towns and villages, tables and chairs return to the piazzas where cafes, bars and restaurants offer cappuccini, aperitivi and seasonal al-fresco lunches. Spring really is the perfect season in which to immerse yourself in the local Tuscan culture and learn the secrets of La Dolce Vita.
Beat the crowds and enjoy Tuscany at its most tranquil time of year from March to June. Sample an authentic taste of Tuscany before the summer season commences and the temperature rises. This captivating region of Italy has several excellent airports with numerous airlines offering daily flights to Pisa, Florence and Bologna.
Where to stay:
The very best way to experience Tuscany in all its glory is to rent a private villa with friends and family. Nothing is more truly Tuscan than gathering around a table with your loved ones. One of the region’s most beautiful and historic country estates is Villa Saletta, an authentic example of country living, where wine and food take centre stage.
Located just a short drive from Pisa and Florence airports, Villa Saletta captures the essence of Tuscany within its three beautifully restored historic villas. Each property has been designed with La Dolce Vita in mind and offers an abundance of outdoor living space, perfect for lazy lunches, cocktails by the pool and al-fresco dinner parties.
The luxurious and atmospheric accommodation ticks all the boxes when it comes to creating memorable family holidays. Sumptuous bedrooms feature Italian linens and original antiques, while large living rooms include fireplaces and library areas, kitchens are high-end and well-equipped, elegant bathrooms are finished in Carrera marble and vast terraces and outdoor dining spaces enjoy fabulous countryside views. One villa ‘Valle’ includes a fairy tale tower with a private bedroom, professional kitchen and a billiard room. Each independent villa is architecturally unique with its own private entrance, secluded garden and large pool.
Guests at Villa Saletta’s country estate can discover a truly Tuscan lifestyle where authentic activities can be experienced. From wine tasting to truffle hunting, pasta-making to art and history tours, horse-riding to sunset picnics, here, days and nights are filled with the simple joys of Spring in Tuscany.
Historic Properties available for rent at Villa Saletta
- Fagnana – A 19th century farmhouse set atop a hilltop with far reaching views across the valleys below. Sleeps 14 with 8 bedrooms
- Valle – Country house featuring a historic tower, set within a tranquil secluded valley. Also includes the old hayloft which offers separate accommodate. Sleeps 13 with 7 bedrooms.
- Casolore – Old style hunting lodge set on a wooded hillside above the valley. Sleeps 6 with 3 bedrooms
Prices from: €4,000 for 7-day villa rental (off-season)
Fly to: Pisa or Florence
Nearby Cities: Pisa, Florence, San Gimignano, Volterra, Siena, Luccahttps://villasaletta.com/
