Owned by the Buccelletti family for centuries, Casali in Val di Chio offers exceptionally good value for this part of Tuscany and the chance for couples, families and groups to enjoy authentic Tuscan life. The accommodation varies from ancient farmhouses, villas with gardens and pools to smaller properties with ravishing views of endless hills.

The main hub of the family estate, a short drive from each accommodation, is at the organic winery which also produces extra virgin olive oil. Here guests can partake in a traditional way of life. You might visit Montepulciano wineries for tastings, take a Tuscan cookery course or sample the Buccellettis’ favourite trattorias, gelaterias and aperitivo bars in hill towns like Pienza – famous for pecorino. Hiking in the hills is a good way to get to know the surrounding area, and you could even drop in on a local farm for pizza making.

The nearest airport is Perugia and the property is ideally located for visiting the major towns of central Tuscany like Cortona, Arezzo, Siena, Florence, San Gimignano and Montalcino or for stopping in the Citta di Castello on your way back to Perugia. There’s also an opportunity to fly back from Rome, balance out country living with a few days living la dolce vita around the Trevi fountain, the Colosseum and St Peter’s Basilica.