Discover the Best of Tuscany from Villa Il Corniolo

Known for its Vino Nobile wines, Renaissance palaces, and hidden wine cellars carved into the hillside. Ideal for leisurely exploring and wine tasting.

Known as the "ideal city" of the Renaissance, Pienza's picturesque streets and squares were featured in The English Patient (1996) and Romeo and Juliet (1968).

Elegant and peaceful, with stone lanes, Romanesque churches, and the formal Horti Leonini gardens—a favourite stop on the Via Francigena pilgrimage route.

A stunning medieval city famous for its shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, the dramatic Duomo, and the world-renowned Palio horse race - a vibrant blend of history, art, and authentic Tuscan atmosphere.

A rare oval-shaped medieval town with artisan boutiques, quiet charm, and the unique Tree of Love in its museum.

A treasure trove of art and antiques, featuring Piero della Francesca's frescoes, elegant architecture, and a vibrant monthly antiques market.

Reachable in under 40 minutes by direct train from Arezzo, Florence is ideal for a car-free day exploring the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, shops and street cafés. You can also drive an hour from the house to the Villa Costanza Tram terminal, park there and catch the 22-minute tram into Santa Maria Novella right in central Florence to save parking and driving panics.

Ride the funicular up to this striking hilltop city and visit its stunning cathedral, ancient Etruscan wells, and a mysterious underground tour.

Discover the Renaissance frescoes of Perugino in one of Umbria's most refined historic chambers (the Collegio del Cambio), then explore the medieval town on foot.

A serene and spiritual destination, home to the huge pilgrimage site, the Basilica of St. Francis which has impressive frescoes by Giotto. Peaceful, beautiful, and inspiring. Don't miss the new Saint, teenager Carlo Acutis laid to rest in Santa Maria Maggiore, the Roman underground city, and also the incredible Santa Maria degli Angeli, 5-minute drive outside the city; this ancient church-within-a-church is where St. Francis himself lived and died and has a shop, a monk's pharmacy and a museum.

So much to see in this beautiful town without the tourist crowds. Climb the belltower, see ancient prison cells in Palazzi Di Monte, visit the town cistern, Cassero museum and former synagogue. Great spots for morning coffee with cornetti, and the nearby vineyard of San Luciano does wonderful wines—book tastings in advance at info@sanlucianovini.it.

Small enough to explore in half a day but stunningly beautiful, with views from the Torre del Cassero right over the valleys. Interesting museums, Italy's most perfect Instagram spot (Logge Vasarine), a great kids' playground with trampolines, and fascinating art in the Collegiata. Best sandwiches in Italy at Vineria La Piccina. Park off Via Trento at the top of the hill.

Setting for the 2003 film Under the Tuscan Sun. Has a very good archaeological park with Etruscan remains and a Roman villa (request to visit in advance). Photo opportunity on the giant steps of Palazzo Comunale. Park at the Car Park of the Holy Spirit off Viale Cesare Battisti.

The birthplace of Boccaccio (born in 1313) is a special town to visit. You can visit Boccaccio's house, his cenotaph (in Santi Jacopo e Filippo) and the Museum of Sacred Art in the 15th Century Augustine Convent. A lovely town to stop and see.

A classic small Tuscan town with Etruscan tombs you can visit and enter, then walk to have lunch and visit the tower, museum, and church containing the embalmed Saint Fausto. You can always stop at a Chianti vineyard on the way home for a tasting.

A quiet village with excellent olive oil producers, warm hospitality, and family-run restaurants.

Small, authentic, and proud of its food culture—perfect for seasonal events and real Tuscan cooking.

Understated and charming, great for local shops, markets, and everyday Italian life.

Your closest town and not to be missed! Stop in the old town square for the friendliest coffee shop in the region, perfect panini, and the best homemade gelato. Take your own bottles to fill from the market square spring - restaurants from all over the area fill up here!

A striking stretch of open, clay-rich hills - a dream for photographers and those seeking a slower drive through surreal Tuscan scenery.

Visit Castiglione del Lago, take a ferry to the lake's islands to explore island churches and restaurants with stunning views. Or alternatively, go to Beach Bar or Ciao Ciao Restaurant next to Campo del Sole (10 min drive from Castiglione del Lago) for lakeside views and good sundowners. There's a kids' play area here too.

A geothermal marvel with steaming ground vents, a geothermal museum, and dramatic volcanic landscapes—Tuscany as you've never seen it.

A hidden gem near Colle di Val d'Elsa. This trail follows a crystal-clear river with natural pools and small waterfalls—perfect for wild swimming and a shaded summer adventure. Family-friendly and wonderfully scenic.

The ancient pilgrim route connecting Canterbury and Rome. Join pilgrims for a stretch between Buonconvento and San Quirico d'Orcia for beautiful views and the chance to reconnect with history and nature.

The iconic cypress-flanked farmhouse from Gladiator, offering one of Tuscany's most photographed vistas.

A tiny stone chapel set among rolling fields—one of the most photographed churches in Italy, often appearing in postcards and film scenes.

A peaceful 12th-century Romanesque monastery nestled among olive groves and cypress trees. Offers a deeply serene atmosphere and breathtaking views—perfect for quiet reflection or a scenic stop near Tenuta Fanti.

A majestic 14th-century Benedictine abbey famous for its stunning Renaissance frescoes and preserved pharmacy room. Wander cloisters, admire frescoed walls, and explore antique apothecary jars immersing yourself in centuries of monastic artistry.

Alessandro from The Tuscan Chef in Montisi can cook a feast at Il Corniolo or run cooking classes at the villa—where you all learn to cook what he'll later serve and clear away.

Another fantastic local chef from Sinalunga is Paolo Berti. Paolo runs a chef, barman and sommerlier-at-home service and can bring all the best Tuscan flavours to Il Corniolo and cook for you and your guests. With multiple menus and wine pairings to match, you won’t be disappointed. See www.ostepaolo.it for contact details and then email Paolo to get menus and find out more.

Belmira lives locally and will deliver delicious Italian classic pasta dishes (plus salads and puddings) to the villa, hot and ready-to-eat, just serve yourself. Pasta classics come in portions for c.5–6 people (around €40–55), puddings €5 each. Perfect for long days when you don’t want to cook. WhatsApp Belmira to order +39 370 375 7579. Pay cash on delivery. Click the link for the latest menu:

Max is the perfect place to get your take-out pizza from. It is also a very friendly place for a night out, with Max himself playing and singing on the piano from around 8pm. See their Facebook page for the full menu and WhatsApp number for ordering for collection.

Famous for its rich, full-bodied Brunello di Montalcino. Visit award-winning wineries and don't miss the Brunello Museum to explore the deep roots of wine culture in the region.

In Castelnuovo dell'Abate. Charlotte's favourite winery. Ask for the beggar's boxes and say Charlotte sent you!

Buy your local co-operative olive oil here in nearby Rigomagno! Also, bring your own bottles to fill with bargain local red and white wine (you will never drink so cheaply).

Family-friendly place in Lucignano, perfect pizzas and pastas at a bargain price. Grab an outside table, even for big groups they are excellent.

Saffron has been cultivated here since 1100. At Casanova di Pescille, take a deep dive into its history and enjoy a lunch or dinner with saffron-based dishes. A must if visiting in October/November saffron season.

A unique tasting experience in stunning surroundings. Children welcome in the beautiful outdoor spaces. Their Vin Santo is not to be missed.

Serving coffee in Montepulciano since 1868. Dazzles with Art Nouveau interiors, a panoramic terrace, and pastries. This is Chris' favourite coffee shop in the world.

Part of the Slow Food movement, prioritising local produce. Authentic, unpretentious Tuscan cooking at its best—a husband-and-wife team run the whole thing. Visit the Etruscan museum in Chiusi while you're here.

Excellent for outside dining in a beautiful setting in Montefollonico. Often runs BBQ or special nights—check their website for what's on. Request an outside table specifically when booking.

An excellent restaurant in nearby Rigomagno. Very well priced, well-ranging menu, excellent service, fast. We go here a lot.

A stunning medieval castle near Gaiole in Chianti offering guided tours and tastings of iconic Chianti Classico. They claim Chianti began here! Book at ricasoli.com.

A personal experience down tiny chalk roads near Rigomagno. Host Laura is super generous with tastings and snacks. Garden space for kids, homely living room for groups of 8–10. Fabulous wines. Book in advance.

Named by The Telegraph as one of the best restaurants in Tuscany in 2023. Evening-only, family-run, using vegetables from their own smallholding. Drinks at 18:30, dinner sharp at 19:30. Book online.

If you are Arezzo way, then consider this place for a sunny lunch. The porchetta-style duck is the stuff of legends. Don't miss the sharing antipasti board either. Phone to book (they speak excellent English).

The ladies that work here make 4-5 different types of pasta and sauce every day in central Sinalunga. Open every day apart from Mondays (and only Sunday mornings) this is the perfect fresh pasta shop. Just say how many people you are catering for and they will weigh out what you need.

Warm and welcoming restaurant in Abbadia Sicille, set in an ancient courtyard that's part of an Abbey dating from 1200. Local food, fresh bread, good wine. Cool outdoor shaded seats with space for children.

Ristorante and pizzeria in an ancient farmhouse outside Torrita di Siena. Guests rave about the superb food and views from the outdoor terrace. Request an outside table when booking.

The Ravaglioli family have been winemaking here for three generations — one of the best "very local" vineyards. Alongside their Chiantis and Rossos, they also do a couple of white wines, unusual for the area. Book a tasting and tour via their website.

Come here and picnic in the gardens. You buy your picnic from the shop, choosing the cheeses and meats you want. They pack it up in a basket for you, with all plates, cutlery and breads. Then you go and enjoy some of the best views in the region.

A great family-run restaurant for kids in the summer in Tre Berte. There are shady spaces and outside play area and the food and wine is great. Perfect for family lunches. The pasta is all made in house.

In the UK you just can't get all-you-can-eat sushi at a price like this. For a fixed lunch fee, you get a bargain. Order via an app (take lots of phones) to your table and it just keeps coming. Really good quality too. Our kids love it.

Need somewhere to lunch on the way to / from Florence. We think this place does the best Florentine steak in the area. Only open evenings, or lunchtime on Sundays; worth booking ahead if you can.

Treetop obstacle courses, rope bridges, zip lines, mini-golf, and picnic areas—great for active kids of all ages. In Rapolano Terme.

Wild riverside trail with natural swimming pools and waterfalls. Pack a large picnic, bring towels and rugs. Not near shops so come prepared. Park off Viale dei Mille, cross the main road and walk at least 10 minutes to find a good spot. Go early.

Fun and safe water park for children under 12 near Lake Trasimeno, with splash zones, gentle slides, and picnic areas.

Visit a working dairy farm in Sinalunga, meet animals, and see how Tuscan cheese is made—engaging and educational.

A storybook medieval walled village near Siena where kids can walk the battlements and imagine life in a fortress.

Tuscany's largest amusement park in Marina di Castagneto Carducci, nestled in a pine forest, with rides, shows, and activities for all age groups.

Ristorante Da Sauro on beautiful Isola Maggiore is the perfect spot for a relaxed lakeside lunch on Lake Trasimeno. Kids will love the fun ferry ride over from Passignano, and you can enjoy fresh lake fish dishes in their charming garden surrounded by stunning views. When you return to shore, Zocco beach is a lakeside hub for families with pool, umbrellas, play equipment, football, SUPs and volleyball. Book Zocco Beach in advance on sunny days: zoccobeach@libero.it

Tour the historic museum, watch Baci chocolates being made, and enjoy tastings. An unforgettable experience for chocolate lovers of all ages. Book the English tour in advance for guaranteed space.

Tuscany's big water park experience wave pool, big slides, young children's areas, aqua shows. Take picnics in, arrive by 10am for best spots. Book tickets in advance. Stop at Bar La Capineta en route for excellent sandwiches and coffee.

Parco I Campini (with car parking on Piazza Giovanni Falcone) is a lovely playground that comes to life in the late afternoons and evenings, with play equipment, giant chess, a small café, a small zip line and football areas. There's also a covered mini golf zone that's open occasionally. If the café is closed (during the school day), the coffee shop around the corner on Piazza della Libertà is a very friendly one.

Ada and her lovely family who run Podere Casa Al Bosco can arrange a farm tour to visit the sheep, goats and horses at their cheese farm. Follow the tour with a tasting of their own cheeses and other local produce, and watch various cheeses being made. Visit their website and email to book (2 days in advance).

One of Italy's largest antiques fairs, filling Arezzo's historic streets on the first weekend of each month. Over 500 stalls of vintage treasures, art, furniture, and collectibles.

Stylish open-air shopping with over 140 designer and high-street brands, great discounts, cafés and restaurants.

A bustling weekly market with fresh produce, local cheeses, clothing, and household goods—perfect for experiencing local life.

The weekly Saturday morning market offers much the same as the Tuesday morning market in Sinalunga: fresh breads, vegetables, local produce and clothing. All in the morning — get there before 11am for the best stuff. On the last Sunday of the month, Buonconvento also has a Sunday antiques market along the ancient Via Cassia.

Taking place on the last Saturday of the month in Piazza Italia, this is great fun. For the best out of your trip, park for free in the Mercato del Sabato in Piazzale Umbria Jazz, enjoy the huge food market there, before catching the mini metro right into the city centre (straight to the escalators that take you up the cliff to the historic centre).

Held on the third Sunday of the month, with around 90 stalls in Piazza del Mercato. Get there in the morning for the best bargains.

Held in Piazza Grande on the second Sunday (and the Saturday before) of the month. A mix of antiques, vintage clothing and local crafts.

An hour from the house, just off the A1, is the famous Mall, Firenze, with outlet stores from high end, international brands such as Armani, Chloe, Ferragamo, Moschino and Versace. You can also book in for mall experiences such as cigar tasting or a personalised colour consultation by clicking the link below.

Well-regarded club with clay courts, hosting national-level tournaments. Lessons for adults and children available—we have excellent contacts with local coaches.

Modern indoor/outdoor facility with courts for padel and pickleball, equipment hire and coaching. Book via Playtomic app. 4 padel rackets provided at the villa.

Ride directly from the villa into Tuscany's legendary white gravel roads, olive groves, and vineyard hills. Mountain bike rentals deliver to and collect from the villa.

A magical wild swimming spot near Colle di Val d'Elsa with crystal-clear pools and waterfalls. Perfect for a hot summer day and safe for adventurous families.

Hire an excellent road bike for your stay—Andrea will deliver to the property and collect. Highly recommended and used by the family.

If you need a driver for a day, or for longer during your stay (for wine tours, airport transfers, or a nice evening meal out to enjoy a drink), please contact any of the following local companies:

www.givemytuscany.com, www.get-tours.lt, or the most local is Gian Marco Bianchi at www.3rdservice.net.

Explore Florence by golf cart—contact Irena to arrange a tour. She can pick you up anywhere and drop you at any desired location. WhatsApp: +39 327 249 3567

For getting around, the trains in Italy are wonderful. Download the Trenitalia app and catch a train from Sinalunga (local services to Siena in an hour, Arezzo in 45 mins, Chiusi-Chianciano Terme in 30 mins for spas, Orvieto in an hour, or train connections via Chiusi to Rome). To get to the capital quickest, drive to Arezzo (or get the early morning 45-min trains from Sinalunga - go to the station to buy tickets in advance) and pick up the morning FrecciaRossa trains to Rome. You can be in Rome eating breakfast by 9am if you catch the 6.30am train from Sinalunga.

There are a few different places locally to rent vespas or vintage Italian cars by the day or week. Contact Strade Bianchi in Sinalunga, or Slow Hills in nearby Montepulciano/Chiusi.

The ladies at Wellness Tuscany will come and transform the villa into a Day Spa or couple's retreat — full set-up, massages, treatments, and a beauty corner for larger groups, plus wine and snacks. They also offer a 60-minute Tuscany Reset ritual experience for groups of 6 or more. Visit their website to book.

Choose from two welcoming spas with many pools—where Garibaldi himself bathed-with natural thermal pools, deckchairs, relaxing grounds, and wellness treatments. Children welcome, especially at Terme Antica Querciolaia.

A picturesque thermal village where the central square is a steaming Roman-era pool; enjoy a soak in nearby free open-air springs or indulge in private spa baths offered by local wellness hotels.