Archive for 'Localities'

Florence has been home or setting to many novels, films and television shows in the past and continues to inspire the world's writers and creators today. One such writer is Thomas Harris who made Florence one of the locations in his famous tales of Hannibal Lecter which then went on to be adapted into an immensely popular series of movies. In the movie, “The Silence of The Lambs,” Florence is first visible through a sketch done by Lecter which is on display in the prison cell in which he is being held in Memphis. It depicts the skyline over the city as seen from Forte Belvedere.     Read More

One of the things that Tuscany is most well known for is its distinctive and stunning landscape which appeared prominently in the works of Renaissance masters such as Leonardo da Vinci. It might seem unusual but unsurprising, then, that Tuscany has its own Landscape Museum. Located in the city of Castelnuovo Berardenga, in the southern area of Chianti Classico near Siena, the Landscape Museum records, illustrates and celebrates the beautiful landscape of Tuscany. Find yourself a villa with pool in Castelnuovo Berardenga and you can explore this historic city and its unique landscape museum!     Read More

Once you've found a luxury villa in Lucca and are headed there on a holiday, it might be tempting to stay within the Baroque walls of the beautiful city, especially as there is so much to see, despite its relatively small size. However, venturing beyond these walls is well worth it – not only for the stunning Tuscan landscape which surrounds but also for the villas on the outskirts of Lucca. These buildings were originally largely the summer homes of influential merchants. With frescoed interiors, sumptuous architectural detail and stunning gardens with waterworks ahead of their time, these villas are a treat to the senses, pleasant ventures into the past and historical and artistic gems. One particularly beautiful example is Villa Torrigiani.     Read More

Tuscany means culture, art and history, right? Any tourists would feel (and be remiss) if they didn't take in some of the world's greatest landmarks while in the area. However, sometimes, visiting museum after museum, castle after castle or cultural centre after cultural centre can become tiring. This is especially true, both physically and mentally, if you have kids with you on the holiday. The poor things will be exhausted from trying to be respectful and behave themselves! So, now it's time to let your hair down and relax and reward the little ones with some fun. Cavallino Matto, near Livorno, is Tuscany’s biggest amusement park and just what the doctor ordered. Find a holiday rental in Livorno and pencil this into your Tuscan itinerary.     Read More