La Volpaia - An Ancient Villa in Chianti, Tuscany

La Volpaia (The Fox's Den)

Arriving at La Volpaia and turning onto the private drive lined with cypress and aspen trees, the road unveils a picturesque scene – olive trees lining your right, and grazing land on the left. You've arrived! But before you grab your bags, steal a moment to peer over the fence, catching a glimpse of the expansive lavender field. With luggage in tow, ascend to your temporary haven – an ancient villa in the heart of Chianti.

Quiet beauty unfolds as you step into La Volpaia – a six-bedroom fully restored farmhouse built in 1521 and spanning 8 hectars (20 acres) of land. The villa and art studio / gallery are seamlessly connected by a vast patio, with its outdoor lounge area and long covered dining table for twelve. The patio has some of the best west facing views over the Apennine Mountains from its perch on a hill, and truffles have often been extracted from under the adjacent big oak. Covered by trees, the patio's shade is a great place to get out of the Tuscan sun and catch a glimpse of the occasional fox, La Volpaia's mascot.

The entrance invites you into a world of comfort and echoes of yesteryear – with arched stone walls, terra cotta floors, and the quintessential Tuscan tile and wood beamed ceilings. One-meter thick walls, witness to more than five centuries of history, promise warmth in winter and cool respite in summer. Inside, a spacious dining area which seats twelve, a meticulously appointed kitchen, and a large living room with a wood-burning fireplace and TV boasting the finest movie channels welcome you. Antiques mingle with art and comfortable yet unpretentious furnishings, inviting you to linger, watch a movie, or immerse yourself in a book by the fire. A sixth bedroom, with an adjoining bathroom, and a secluded office space offer an intimate retreat in addition to some great works of original art. Adjacent to the kitchen, a practical laundry room awaits your convenience.

Ascending the stairs, you’ll find five bedrooms encircling another comfortable lounge area. This is a great space to read, have a deep conversation about life or a place for the kids to escape the boring adults. Each unique room is accompanied by a private bathroom and enjoys views that extend over vineyards and sunsets, or into the embrace of nature and gardens. Drift into a serene slumber on memory foam beds, serenaded by the nocturnal symphony of owls and rustling breezes.

While all the region's treasures lie within easy reach, La Volpaia remains cocooned in tranquility. No planes disrupt the stillness, only the occasional car on the country road. Here, discover the authenticity and tranquility you've sought and the relaxation relished after a day of exploration. Amble through the olive grove, pluck some lavender, or plunge into the infinity pool, capturing the sunset over neighboring vineyards. Engage in the delight of art, explore the artist's studio, or savor a glass of prosecco before dining alfresco on the patio under the stars.

This is a place for your Tuscan dreams…La Volpaia is not just a dwelling; it's an immersive journey into the heART of Tuscany's timeless charm.