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In the HEART
of TUSCANY –
between PISA
and FLORENCE

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Local Tuscany

Although there is much to see and do on the Villa Lena estate, we are also passionate about our surroundings. Here are some of our favourite things to do in the local area:

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Hiking and swimming

On our doorstep there are plenty of accessible hikes, follow the hiking sign posts to reach the best viewpoints on the estate or stroll up to Toiano for a picture perfect, panoramic sunset spot.

Villa Lena may be tucked away in the Tuscan hills but we’re not far from the beach and many beautiful wild swimming spots. The elegant town of Forte dei Marmi and the relaxed beaches of Cecina are all a short drive away. Or if you’re feeling adventurous you can visit a local hot spring or waterfall!

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Markets and festivals

Italy is famous for its bustling markets and festivals celebrating seasonal produce. Lucca and Arezzo offer a rich variety of vintage textiles, clothing and furniture. People come from far and wide to pick up unique finds and exceptionally good value antiques.

We also love the cherry festival each June in Lari, San Miniato’s white truffle fair in November and the famous Palio in Siena which takes place in July and August.

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A few of our favourite towns

Aside from the nearby cities of Pisa, Lucca and Florence there are many wonderful towns in the vicinity to discover:

San Gimignano – visit Galleria Continua
Volterra – explore the Etruscan museum and ancient amphitheater
Lari – see how they make pasta at the family run Martelli factory
San Miniato – climb the tower and then have lunch at the butcher, Sergio Falaschi

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Italian Gardens

Tuscany is home to some of Italy’s most enchanting gardens, from Villa Reale in Lucca to La Foce in the Val d’Orcia, in Southern Tuscany. Or closer to Villa Lena in Florence alongside the world famous Boboli and Bardini gardens in Florence you can also visit the lesser known, but no less exquisite, gardens at Villa Gamberaia and Villa Castello.

If you’re looking for more information about where to go and what to see, don’t hesitate to ask our reception staff on arrival for ideas.

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A MAGICAL VILLA
IN THE WILD WOODS
OF TUSCANY

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MEET YOUR RETREAT HOST TAVI PATHARE

Flower Painting Retreat | 5th-10th May

Imagine immersing yourself in our flower garden in peak spring: observing plants up close, arranging bouquets, and painting all the sights that inspire you—like a modern-day Botticelli. This is the concept of our flower painting retreat, led by award-winning Florence Academy of Art instructor Tanvi Pathare. 

Four watercolor masterclasses will focus on an old and healing art form: the slow-paced appreciation of flowers, landscapes, and natural beauty. Following in the footsteps of Italy’s Renaissance artists—who expressed endless curiosity about the natural world in their works—retreat goers will learn to observe the outdoors patiently and take on “a reverence for the variety that life offers,” Tanvi says.

 

Learn how to paint like a modern-day Botticelli 

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