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A fantastic villa for two families to share in Tuscany

With a pretty pool and separate sitting rooms and kitchens on each floor, Villa I Gigli is the ideal property to share with friends - Villa I Gigli; Oliver's Travels
With a pretty pool and separate sitting rooms and kitchens on each floor, Villa I Gigli is the ideal property to share with friends - Villa I Gigli; Oliver's Travels

Telegraph rating: 7/10

Villa I Gigli just outside Arezzo in Tuscany is a stylish, tranquil getaway great with views of the rolling hills of the region that’s large enough for two families or a group travelling together. It combines luxurious interiors with a peaceful garden and a pool.

Location: 7/10

About 80km south-east of Florence the villa sits three miles out from the beautiful and surprisingly quiet hill-top town of Arezzo. Renowned for its medieval architecture, it’s popular claim to fame is that the film Life is Beautiful was filmed here. Arezzo, also home to the San Francesco Church housing Piero della Francesca’s frescoes, is within easy reach of Siena and Cortona. The villa owner is helpful with information about nearby attractions and although there aren’t easily walkable restaurants nearby, Arezzo itself has plenty to offer diners.

Style and character: 8/10

This meticulously renovated 200-year-old stone villa has a homely yet stylish feel. Its beamed ceilings and old-school charm combine well with glamorous designer touches – think sumptuous fat sofas in smart fabrics, heavy squat wooden tables and some particularly attractive bedheads inventively made from chunky, antique Italian doors. Although it has a polished feel it’s not an intimidating place to bring young children to. The villa is arranged over two floors, each with a separate kitchen and large living area, making it ideal for two families and groups travelling together. The upper floor has the advantage of fabulous views over the rolling Tuscan landscape, while the ground floor gives directly onto the terrace with its loggia for al fresco dining.

The villa's decor is stylish and comfortable, but you won't be afraid to bring children - Credit: Villa I Gigli; Oliver's Travels
The villa's decor is stylish and comfortable, but you won't be afraid to bring children Credit: Villa I Gigli; Oliver's Travels

Facilities: 8/10

The villa sleeps 12 in six stylish double bedrooms spread over two floors all with en suite shower facilities. The bedrooms are clean and modern. The bathrooms are pristine with plenty of hot water.  The villa’s two kitchens are both well-equipped, although the ground-floor one edges it with its high ceilings and large dining table. The swimming pool, with a seating area around it, is tucked round the side of the villa and there is a well-maintained private garden with some lawn space for games. Organic wine-tasting is available at the Antico Podere di Pomaio winery, that’s set into the ancient Etruscan hillside just below the villa. The nearest supermarket is in Arezzo. The villa is air-conditioned with free and speedy Wi-Fi. There’s plenty of parking.

Value for Money: 6/10

This villa doesn’t come cheaply, but its high level of design and spaciousness make it a real treat for a pair of families keen to holiday together.

The attractive kitchen on the ground floor has high ceilings - but you may prefer to eat outside - Credit: Villa I Gigli; Oliver's Travels
The attractive kitchen on the ground floor has high ceilings - but you may prefer to eat outside Credit: Villa I Gigli; Oliver's Travels

Family friendly: 6/10

The good-sized pool will entertain the children, although as it is not directly in front of the villa you’ll want to keep a close eye on toddlers. No pool equipment was supplied. Highchair and travel cots are available but there aren’t any games or children’s films for when it rains. The nearby lures of Siena and Florence, however, mean there’s plenty of culture to get out and experience

Access for Disabilities:

There is a one bedroom on the upper floor of the house that is wheelchair accessible.

Details:

Based at Arezzo’s Antico Podere di Pomaio in Arrezo Villa I Gigli, is available through Oliver’s Travels (0800 1337999, oliverstravels.com). From 4,000 euros per week (£3,544.94) in the low season, rising to €5,952.32 (£5,274.18) in high season.

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