Formed by smooth slopes and varicoloured fields, the countryside of Tuscany is no less attractive than its art towns. Agriturismos are the best way to experience both, as the region is scattered with traditional farmhouses providing all one needs for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Here, the rural lifestyle can feature anything from woodland walks to olive picking and learning the local cuisine, in close proximity to the region’s many cultural landmarks.
Marrucheti 82
From €100/ night
A family business dedicated to organic farming, Marrucheti 82 offers a handful of accommodations for intimate and cosy stays in the south of Tuscany. Three of its apartments are located in a converted warehouse, and those looking for a more secluded option can opt for the separated suite. A room with independent access is also available. In addition to hosting wine and food tastings, the farm produces vegetables, honey and extra-virgin olive oil. An infinity swimming pool comes with a view over the valley to the south, while nearby attractions include the Roselle Archaeological Area and Maremma Natural Park.
Agriturismo Bagnolo
From €80/ night
This family-run farm stretches over 500 acres of land where sheep, pigs and courtyard animals are kept according to traditional ways. Guests can visit the farm and even get involved in the daily duties, such as the making of the flagship local cheese, pecorino di Pienza. Other cheeses, salumi, and olive oil are also produced in house, the latter best enjoyed in Autumn just after the olive harvest. Three apartments and two rooms are available, and stays of a week or more include a guided tour of the cheese-making cycle. Only 5km away, the small town of Pienza is a Renaissance idyll of architectural harmony and urban space.
Azienda Agricola Della Mezzaluna
From €113/ night
Agriturismo Della Mezzaluna takes nature retreats to the next level by accommodating guests in renovated vintage caravans, surrounded by an olive tree grove. Two Hungarian caravans from the early-1900s provide an intimate and elegant setting for two people, while a more spacious option is available for up to four guests. The farm is populated by donkeys, courtyard animals, fruit trees, gardens, woodland and vineyards, making fresh produce and eggs always available. Olive oil, wine and jams are also homemade. A saltwater pool and a veranda equipped for cooking are the main communal areas.
Nocini di Maremma
From €72/ night
Nocini di Maremma is a restored medieval hamlet which was once part of the feud of Tatti, a nearby village. Its centrepiece is an ancient oven, dating back over a hundred years and still used to make pizza, flatbread and the like. No less fascinating, the surrounding landscape provides views over the Alta Maremma region, ranging all the way from the hills to the sea. The coast is less than 40km away, while the nearby attractions include medieval landmarks such as Massa Marittima, Montemassi and the San Galgano Abbey. The agriturismo offers three double rooms and a twin.
Agriturismo Sardi Giustiniani
From €105/ night
Hailing from a long-established family business, Fattoria Sardi is run by a young couple producing wine through organic grapes and sustainable methods. Unusually for Tuscany, the core of the production are rosé wines, which enjoy the favourable influence of the Northern Tyrrhenian Sea. Reds and whites are also produced, and the whole range can be discovered while visiting the cellar. The agriturismo offers seven apartments sleeping up to six people, located next to a swimming pool and surrounded by woods, olive trees, meadows and farmland. Agriturismo Sardi Giustiniani is 5km away from Lucca and 40km from the nearest beach.
Fattoria Voltrona
From €71/ night
Fattoria Voltrona opened 35 years ago to become one of Tuscany’s first agriturismos. Vineyards, olive trees and other crops stretch across its 100 acres of land, also patched with lush gardens and meadows. Icelandic horses run free in a large paddock, and horse rides are available to experts and beginners alike. Dinnertime is not only an occasion to experience the farm’s homemade cuisine, but also a convivial ritual in keeping with the local traditions. The activities range from lake fishing to truffle hunting, while two swimming pools are open from early May to late October.
Fattoria di Maiano
From €196/ night
Fattoria di Maiano offers rooms and apartments where modern comforts meet classic style and country design. This agriturismo boasts an English-style botanic garden formed by an educational farm, a tea house, an ancient tower turned luxury suite, and a Romantic park inaugurated by Queen Victoria in 1893. Barbecue, trekking, a panoramic swimming pool and an oil mill open to visitors are some of the local amenities and activities. Driven by seasonality and sustainability, Lo Spaccio restaurant is where to sample the farm’s own products.
Il Poderaccio
From €71/ night
Agriturismo Il Poderaccio is housed in an eco-friendly farmstead surrounded by the olive trees and farmland of the Scandicci hill. It offers four apartments with views over Florence (located just 10km away), as well as a smaller 25 square metre studio looking out over the mountain. All accommodations come equipped with a kitchen area, while some have direct access to the farmstead’s large terrace. A barbecue, wood oven and swimming pool (open from June to October) are among the amenities provided. The farm produces a range of organic products, such as extra virgin olive oil, fruit and vegetables, eggs and jams.
Il Lavandeto
From €62/ night
Situated just south of Siena, Il Lavandeto is a recently renovated agriturismo taking its name from the lavender fields it is home to. Olive trees and barnyard animals also form part of the farm, as well as a verdant garden complete with barbecue and gazebo. All rooms boast modern furnishing and design, adding more comfort to the pleasures of the countryside. Two kilometres north is the historic centre of Siena, and a bus stop is conveniently located near the agriturismo.
Fattoria di Poggiopiano
From €78/ night
Committed to sustainable tourism focused on food and wine, Fattoria di Poggiopiano produces organic olive oil and wine which can be sampled through guided tasting sessions. Fully renovated, this period farmhouse still shows some of its original features and rustic style, offering a range of apartments as well as private rooms. The activities that can be booked at the reception include rafting, yoga, mountain biking and visits to Florence, while a barbecue and a panoramic swimming are also available.
Agriturismo Il Pozzo
From €112/ night
Agriturismo Il Pozzo offers a family-friendly retreat only 12km from Arezzo. It boasts a regular swimming pool and a smaller one for children, as well as a barbecue area, a restaurant and a playground. Its nine apartments are fitted with modern comforts and decorated in keeping with the local rustic style. Tuscan cooking classes are available both for adults and children, while Autumn is the season for tasting the new olive oil straight from the press.
Podere Sottogello
From €80/ night
Located in the centre of Tuscany, this agriturismo is a good option to combine a farm stay with a visit to the region’s main attractions. The farmhouse comprises four apartments fitted with independent kitchens, and the communal facilities include a swimming pool, garden, ping pong table and barbecue area. Hiking and horse riding are some of the activities available.