Category Archives: Tuscany

On or off the beaten path?

Posted on September 28, 2016 by

This thing called the ‘beaten path’ really isn’t such a bad place. Everyone wants to avoid it, but you have to consider that it includes many of the beautiful destinations and experiences that create the best travel memories…Michelangelo’s David, the … Continue reading →

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From Lucca to the Tuscany Seaside

Posted on October 22, 2015 by

Our Italian friends tell us that Lucca is a fun place to live and to visit because the people from here do such a good job of getting the most out of life. The area is known for its thriving … Continue reading →

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Settignano – The luxurious setting of Villa Gamberaia

Posted on October 31, 2014 by

Settignano is a small and welcoming village with an artistic legacy.  It’s close enough to Florence to enjoy a day of touring and then return home without a long drive.  And it’s still rural enough to offer a view of fields … Continue reading →

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Villa Cetinale – One of Edith Wharton’s favorites

Posted on October 23, 2014 by

In 1904, Edith Wharton published “Italian Villas and Their Gardens“, on assignment from Century magazine. During her four month visit, she documented her observations of Italy’s most beautiful gardens.  Her book is considered one of the earliest and most important works … Continue reading →

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Torre Elsa is a Noble Remnant of Ancient Semifonte

Posted on November 7, 2011 by

Torre Elsa is an impressive 11th century tower that witnessed the momentous 12th century battle between Florence and the citizens of Semifonte. Threatened by Semifonte’s dominant position over the Elsa valley and its trading strength, the Florentines virtually eliminated the … Continue reading →

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A Village Called Abbadia Isola

Posted on November 1, 2011 by

It was lunch time and we were promised something really special. Truth be told, pretty much everything in Italy is special, and so far on our trip we had not been disappointed with any of the venues we had visited … Continue reading →

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Borgo Casciano in the Heart of Chianti

Posted on October 18, 2011 by

We recently stayed at Borgo Casciano, a brand new renovation of a cluster of farmhouses in the heart of the Chianti region of Tuscany. It’s located between the towns of Mercatale and San Casciano in the luscious Val di Pesa. … Continue reading →

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Hard Rock Cafe Comes to Florence

Posted on October 15, 2011 by

We didn’t think we would make it to the Hard Rock Cafe on this trip to Italy, but decided that a visit would be interesting. Although it’s not our priority to seek out an American meal while in Italy, we … Continue reading →

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The Story of Sosta del Duca

Posted on August 19, 2011 by

Click here to visit the apartments at Sosta del Duca Sandra and Riccardo grew up as sister and brother on the outskirts of San Gimignano, the fabled towered city of Tuscany. For them, there were so many beautiful country paths … Continue reading →

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30 Days on the Road in Italy…Day 18: Tuscany

Posted on January 11, 2011 by

Come with us as we explore Italy and check out properties for Gira! Italian Vacation Rentals. This morning is a welcome break from the fast pace we’ve been on. We get some laundry done and hang it out on the … Continue reading →

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