Villa I Cipressi

We were graciously hosted by Paola and Fabrizio at Villa Calcinaia during our stay in Italy. This has been a second home for my boyfriend for many years when he visits the Florence/Tuscany area annually. It was my first trip and he insisted on giving me a true, authentic and utterly romantic Tuscan experience at Villa Calcinaia! As our car climbed the hill from Lastra a Signa, my heart swelled, taking in the landscape and the stone wall lined road; rolling hills of olive groves, vineyards, cypress trees, mimosa and magical umbrella pines. It was the scene you picture when you set your heart on seeing and experiencing Tuscany! The terrain naturally draws you in, with filtered light and color, but as the gate opens to Villa Calcinaia, you are officially welcomed to Tuscany! A cypress lined driveway leads you to their beautiful homestead, where you are tucked in to an olive grove. This is where your journey officially begins; with a beautiful place to call home while you explore this magical region called Tuscany. Paola made her home, Villa I Cipressi (a converted barn on her family’s property), our home for a week. Her heart was with us everywhere we went, with recommendations, tips and best wishes that went beyond any type of “hosting” an Airbnb would typically provide. It was a perfect blend of privacy, personalized guidance and genuine interest in giving us a memorable experience! Paola loves her home and her Tuscan roots and goes out of her way to bring that love to every guest she welcomes! It’s perfectly located; “moments away” from the village of Lastra a Signa, 15 minutes from the center of Florence and minutes from the train and Autostrada/Superstrada; making visits to neighboring Tuscan cities and towns easily accessible (Pienza, Montepulciano, Sienna, Lucca). Whether it’s your first time in Tuscany or you’ve been called back (and you will be), Villa Calcinaia is the place to call home while you explore this magical region; rich in history, architecture, people, food, wine that will create memories and friendships to last a lifetime.