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This lovely red-brick villa has been carefully restored by the English owners, and is run with an informal house-party atmosphere; it feels a bit like staying at the country pad of stylish friends who can advise about how to get the best from the area.
There are lovely gardens with a pool and tennis court, and far-reaching views over the Val di Chiana. The chef can whip you up something light for lunch; he owners join guests twice a week at a long table for a three-course dinner; it’s all very convivial.
It suits those looking for a sociable stay, with a chance to get an authentic insight into contemporary Tuscan life.
It’s only a 10-15 minute’ drive from the A1 Florence-Rome autostrada, but Fontelunga is a thoroughly peaceful spot; traffic is likely to be dominated by tractors and old Fiat Pandas. Views are of olive trees and open agricultural land dotted with weathered old farm houses and villas and criss-crossed with narrow country lanes. It lies in the wide valley of the Chiana river, with hills to either side. The historic town of Cortona is a 20-minute drive and Arezzo is 40 minutes.
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Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Cortona, Tuscany, Italy[14.6 miles]
Made famous by Frances Mayes’s Under the Tuscan Sun, Cortona is a delightful hill town perched above the Val di Chiana packed with sights (the Duomo, the Museo Diocesano, the Palazzo del Popolo) and excellent restaurants.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy[20.2 miles]
One of the greatest of all Italian fresco cycles is housed in the barnlike church of San Francesco in central Arezzo. Piero della Francesca’s Legend of the True Cross decorates the choir, taking fourteen years from 1452-1466. Recent restoration works mean the frescoes are in superb condition.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy[20.2 miles]
Held on the first weekend of each month, this huge market with stalls selling everything from vintage postcards to Renaissance paintings is laid out in and around Piazza Grande, attracting vendors and buyers from all over Italy.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Tuscany, Italy
A heady mix of incomparable Renaissance art, gorgeous palazzos, Tuscan cuisine and home-grown haute couture.
Tuscany, Italy
The astonishingly beautiful region of Tuscany has it all: art cities and ancient hill towns, high mountains and long sandy beaches, alongside luxurious hotels and some of Italy’s best food and wine.
