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When it comes to culinary excellence, few places rival the timeless traditions and exquisite flavors of Italy and Greece. According to TasteAtlas, these two Mediterranean gems boast the world’s finest cuisines, captivating the palates of gourmands across the globe. With Italy ranked as the number one cuisine in the world and Greece following closely in second place, their culinary mastery offers a feast for the senses. Let us guide you through a flavorful journey, where the artistry of Italian and Greek cuisine meets the unparalleled charm of Posarelli Villas. Villa Silentium Olia Italy: A Symphony of Flavors Italian cuisine stands as a beacon of culinary perfection, celebrated for its simplicity and deep respect for quality ingredients. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-kissed Amalfi Coast, each region tells a story through its dishes. The Essence of Italian Cuisine: At the heart of Italian cooking lies an unwavering commitment to freshness. TasteAtlas highlights iconic ingredients such as Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and San Marzano tomatoes as key to Italy’s culinary identity. Signature Dishes: As TasteAtlas reveals, dishes like Napoli’s pizza margherita, risotto alla milanese, and lasagna bolognese are globally adored for their exceptional taste and rich history. Pairing with Posarelli Villas: Staying in one of our Tuscan or Sicilian villas offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in this culinary heritage. Pizza Margherita Greece: A Celebration of Tradition and Purity Ranked alongside Italy, Greece offers a culinary experience steeped in history and authenticity. The Greek table is a celebration of life, where food connects people and honors nature’s bounty. A Taste of Greek Culture: Greek cuisine is a harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques. According to TasteAtlas, staples such as feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and wild herbs define its distinctive character. Unmissable Delicacies: Delight in the smoky layers of moussaka, the tangy creaminess of tzatziki, or the sweet indulgence of baklava. As TasteAtlas notes, specialties like souvlaki and Greek yogurt have earned global admiration for their authentic and bold flavors. Pairing with Posarelli Villas: Our villas in Corfu and Crete provide the ideal setting to explore this culinary wonderland. Moussaka Why Choose Posarelli Villas for Your Culinary Adventure? At Posarelli Villas, we pride ourselves on offering more than just a place to stay. Each villa serves as a gateway to authentic cultural experiences, allowing you to savor the best of Italy and Greece with unparalleled comfort and style. Tailored Experiences: From private chef services to curated food and wine tours, we ensure that every aspect of your journey is imbued with the essence of Mediterranean living. Exquisite Settings: Imagine dining al fresco amidst the rolling vineyards of Tuscany or enjoying a sunset dinner overlooking the azure waters of the Aegean. Dinner at the villa Embark on a Culinary Journey Today Italy and Greece have long captivated travelers with their culinary artistry. Now, it’s your turn to explore these extraordinary destinations. Whether you dream of mastering the secrets of Italian pasta or indulging in the vibrant flavors of Greek mezze, Posarelli Villas invites you to make this dream a reality.

Do you have three free days and don't know how to use them? You don't want to waste your little free time on the sofa? This is the article for you! At Posarelli Villas we don't just deal with stays of two weeks or more; in fact, in the last few years we have specialised in short stays to meet the needs of the new world. We know how difficult it is to find moments for ourselves in the hustle and bustle of everyday life and we also know that organising a holiday can be stressful: let us organise your stay. Today we offer you three accommodations for a dream getaway to Crete.  1.  GROUP HOLIDAY IN AN ECO RETREAT:  VILLA BLUEWHITE  If you are a regular visitor to our blog, you will already have had the opportunity to get to know the magnificent Villa Bluewhite. This eco villa is located on Crete, the beautiful Greek island that has been at the centre of summer tourism this year. Did you know that even celebrities such as Charlize Therone, Giorgio Armani, Demi Moore and Gordon Ramsey have chosen Crete for their holidays and private events? Staying at our Villa you will have 5 bedrooms, divided between the main building and the annexe, which can accommodate up to 10 guests. The interior spaces are bright and modern, and the large outdoor areas host a wonderful swimming pool, a tennis court and a bocce court. The highlights? The zero-km vegetable garden from which you can pick fresh produce and the fantastic sea view: you can watch the best Cretan sunsets right from your pool. 2. FAMILY GETAWAY:  VILLA KISSOS  Family time is always time well spent, especially when spent in a villa located in an exclusive residential complex. Villa Kissos is a beautiful property with a private pool located in the western part of the island of Crete near Chania. At your disposal is a large, well-kept garden where you can spend quality time with your children. If you are not cold, the sea-view swimming pool is also waiting for you.  3. LOVE NEST: ARIA 3 For a couple's or individual holiday (because self-love is never enough) choose Aria 3. The flat is located in a complex with two other flats (Aria 1 and 2). Its strategic location just 100 metres from the sea will allow you to spend four relaxing days without having to worry about distances. The interiors are bright and modern: all the furnishings are new and carefully chosen to make the small refuge we have designed for you on Crete cosy. Haven't found the right accommodation for you? Write to us! We have an online chat on our website or at booking@posarellivillas.com What are you waiting for? Crete is waiting for you. © Rebecca Taizzani

Boring afternoon? Busy week? Don't worry, we'll cheer you up. Here is the second part of our article on Crete's most beautiful beaches. If you've been gaping at the pink sand of Elafonisi or the crystal-clear water of Voulisma, wait until you see the rest. As we always say: stop dreaming, book one of our villas and experience it first hand! Kedrodasos The beach of Kedrodasos is the perfect alternative to the beach of Elafonisi: their proximity makes them very similar, but unlike the latter, the beach of Kedrodasos is still little known. This allows you to enjoy the spectacle in complete tranquillity. Kedrodasos is a protected area of Crete and there are no facilities in the vicinity, which makes the place even more intimate and secluded (and often frequented by naturists). The presence of very light sand and smooth rocks contribute to a picture that has nothing to envy from exotic beaches. The sea is always flat because the area is more protected from the winds than neighbouring Elafonisi. The landscape takes on unreal colours, from light blue to electric blue with dark spots revealing patches of posidonia growing on the seabed. In areas where the water is very shallow, it feels like being in natural pools. We recommend that you bring everything you need for a day at sea and, above all, that you treat this unspoilt corner of nature with the utmost respect. Balos Lagoon The Balos Lagoon is a lagoon separated from the bay of the same name by a tongue of sand that joins the promontory of Corico to Cape Tigani, in the most north-western part of the island of Crete, in Greece. A few small prerequisites for an unforgettable experience: before venturing along the unpaved road that will lead you to the Balos Lagoon you will have to pay a 1 euro fee for the protection of the Gramvousa Reserve and the preservation of the road. After that the route starts to get tricky with potholes, uneven ground and goats crossing the road. In about 20 minutes at a very low speed you reach a large car park. To reach the beach you have to walk for another 20 minutes on a path with a wonderful view over the lagoon and the sea. Don't be put off by the somewhat challenging path - you will be rewarded by a breathtaking landscape with a Caribbean beach and crystal-clear water. Seitan Limania Beach Setain Limania beach, also called Agios Stefanou, is located on the Akrotiri peninsula. It has white sand and turquoise sea, all set in a beautiful cove. Until recently it was only frequented by locals and friendly goats, but nowadays it is very crowded at weekends. We recommend a midweek visit. To get to Devil's Beach (another name for the beach in Seitan Limania) you can leave your car in a nearby car park and take the central road at the fork in the road, which you will find in front of you: in 10 minutes you will reach the beach and your walk will be enlivened by a beautiful landscape. This beauty is only half an hour's drive from our Cabanavillas: two little jewels with a panoramic swimming pool and just a few steps from the sea! The perfect solution for those who want to enjoy the natural beauties of Crete without renouncing to pubs, beach clubs and exquisite restaurants! Don't you want to leave yet? We already have a selection of villas that will suit you! Send an email to booking@posarellivillas.com and together we can plan the perfect holiday.© Rebecca Taizzani

When talking about Crete, the first thing that comes to mind is the cultural wonders that this island has to offer: from the Labyrinth of Knossos to the archaeological site of Phaestos, nicknamed "the bridge to Egypt", not to mention the beautiful capital Heraklion. Today, however, we want to change the perspective, we want to shift the focus from the immense artistic and cultural heritage to the natural and landscape heritage. In addition to the “Brocchetta di Guarnià” and the paintings with their bright colours and sharp outlines, Crete offers another type of artwork. Flowing brushstrokes, warm colours dipping into shades of turquoise blue, in stark contrast to the sharpness of burnt brown, and again flowing lines intertwining with each other to create bristling, sharp-edged areas. Which work of art are we talking about? The island of Crete itself. Close your eyes and imagine breathtaking panoramas, long stretches of golden sand, colours that mingle to the point of seeming surreal, tongues of white sand connecting beaches with uninhabited islands. If you book one of our houses you will no longer have to dream about it, you can live it. Now all you have to do is put a pair of shoes in your suitcase and read on! Voulisma beach This beautiful beach is located in the south-east of the island in the beautiful region of Lassithi. Thanks to the deep turquoise sea that washes the sandy beach, Voulisma beach is reminiscent of the tropics. Behind it, a high rocky cliff covered with Mediterranean vegetation gives it the unique touch and the rightful reputation it has so far earned. The waters of Voulisma beach are clean and transparent with a gently sloping seabed, perfect for children. This paradise is seven hundred meters long and for the most part is well equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas. The bay is ideal for those who love long swims and for those who adore snorkelling: plunge your head under the crystal clear waters and you will find a real playground of marine flora and fauna. If you like to keep your feet on the ground, our advice is to venture to the top of the promontory, where you'll find a snack bar and a breathtaking view. Trust us, the long flight of steps will be well worth it. Elafonisi beach Located on the southwest coast of Crete Island, Elafonissi (or Elafonisi) is also called the 'Caribbean of the Mediterranean' for its white beach with pink hues and warm turquoise waters. The main beach is well-equipped with facilities for renting umbrellas, sunbeds and several bars. The jewel in the crown? The small island of Elafonissi in front of the beach of the same name, which, depending on the tides, is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand on some days, while on others it is a real island that can be reached by walking through knee-deep waters. On the small island, you can relax on the free beach and feel as if you are in the Caribbean, when in fact you are in Europe. If you want to get away from civilisation, venture to the back of the island: the most rural and characterised by small bays where peace and tranquillity reign. At the far end of the island is a promontory where you can find a lighthouse and the small chapel of Agia Irini . Be sure to stay on this beach until sunset - here you can admire the best sunsets in Crete. Preveli beach Preveli beach takes its name from the monastery located at the top of this part of the south coast of Crete. Together with the monastery, it is one of the most visited places on the island. Since the late 1960s, the beach and its surroundings have been inhabited by hippies from all over the world for a long time. The beauty of the landscape and the atmosphere were perfect for their ideals of peace and freedom. The curiosity of this beach lies in the river Megas Potamos: the freshwater stream ends in the sea and the beach of sand mixed with tiny light-coloured pebbles acts as a watershed. It is not every day that one can swim in both the fresh water of the river and the salt water of the sea. In addition, behind the beach is a dense palm grove that lines the river bed creating an exotic atmosphere; hence the name Palm Beach. To get to Palm Beach you have to leave your car in the car park (for a fee) and then walk up almost 500 steps. What are you waiting for? Hurry up and book one of our villas .Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to discover the second part of this guide and much more. © Rebecca Taizzani

Arezzo is one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany, but it's often unfairly undervalued compared to its sisters Florence, Pisa and Siena. We are talking aboutArezzo, a a real gem located on the hills in Tuscany. The city contains all the cultural, artistic and gastronomic characteristics of the entire Region and can offer its visitors peace and tranquility, as it is much less crowded and more intimate. The artistic heritage of Arezzo is vast, but confined within the walls of its city. Among its ups and downs, among its lanes and squares, you will be entranced by the beauty of Arezzo. View on Arezzo Let's find out the 10 must-see attractions in Arezzo! THE SAINT FRANCIS BASILICA The Saint Francis Basilica, built in the XIV century, is famous particularly for the Storia della Vera Croce, a cycle of frescoes byPiero della Francesca which tells the story of the wooden branch which later became the material for the Cross of Christ. The basilica is known for being the second Franciscan basilica in the city: the first, in fact, was built outside the walls of Arezzo and destroyed for defensive reasons. Recently restored, this beautiful church will leave you breathless! SAINT FRANCIS' SQUARE In front of the namesake Basilica, there is one beautiful square that is a renowed meeting place for the citizens of the city. The square hosts a historical caffe, opened in the 1809, called Caffè dei Costanti. Since it resisted for more than two centuries in the Sain Francis' Square, this catering activity became a real monument in Arezzo. THE FORTEZZA MEDICEA (Medieval Fortress) The Fortezza Medicea Built in the 16th century by order of Cosimo II de Medici, the Medici Fortress represents an ancient example of military defense architecture. It was built on the hill of San Donato, taking its shape: the perimeter, in fact, is irregular and is delimited by five bastions from which the military could observe the arrival of any attacks. From here, however, you can also admire a splendid landscape, which includes the city of Arezzo, its surrounding rolling hills, the Arno valley and Pratomagno. Since the nineteenth century the Fortress has housed a beautiful garden, site of the numerous cultural events of the city, first of all the Antiques Fair when its square Grande is occupied by the Giostra del Saracino (see point 6). THE SAINT PETER AND SAINT DONATO CATHEDRAL The Duomo of Arezzo Built between 1278 and 1511, the Cathedral of Santi Pietro e Donati is a wonderful example of Gothic art. Its construction, which took two centuries, was troubled by the historical and war events of the city and was therefore completed several times over the course of history. Its bell tower also has a special history: it was rebuilt three times! The first risked ruining the windows due to its extreme proximity to the church and was replaced with the second, then demolished for an aquifer that undermined its stability, replacing it with the one we see today. The Duomo features various materials inserted in different eras, making it even more special and authentic. In addition, the sixteenth-century front staircase enhances it by raising it in all its beauty. THE AMPHITHEATER Near the station you can find the ancient Roman Amphitheater, probably built between the 1st and 2nd century AD to carry out the activities of the games, but also to celebrate the various festivities at inside, being able to contain more than 10000 people inside. Visiting the Archaeological Museum of Arezzo you will better understand the events that go from the construction to the demolition of the Amphitheater and you can also admire a splendid collection of Etruscan and Roman ceramics and glass objects there found. The Amphitheater has suffered many looting and damage, so what remains now are the two entrances, the arches and the elliptical shape. It is now used during the summer for the representation of plays and concerts. THE PIAZZA GRANDE The Piazza Grande in Arezzo Place of historical, cultural and folkloristic interest, you cannot fail to stumble upon Piazza Grande during your visit to Arezzo. This square is the real heart of the city and is surrounded on one side by splendid arcades , designed by the renowned artist Vasari, and on the other by historical palaces such as the Pieve di Santa Maria (see point 8) and the Palazzo della Fraternità dei Laici . Under the arcades, bars, clubs and restaurants enjoy its magnificent view. The square was built downhill, with a drop of at least 10 meters to collect rainwater and is home to the famous Antiques Fair (held every first weekend of the month) and the Giostra del Saracino, a typical city game of Arezzo which is held twice every year: the penultimate Saturday of June (Giostra di San Donato) at night and the first Sunday of September (September carousel) by day. Curiosity: this square is also the location of La vita è bella by Roberto Beningni (1997), in which it is seen going down several times to its descent! The film was awarded the Oscar for the best foreign film, also managing to give visibility to the city. THE CLOCK TOWER Piazza Grande is not only Palaces and Games: here, in fact, there is also the very famous Clock Tower, which rises from the Palazzo della Fraternità dei Laici. It is the only astronomical clock in Italy and one of the very rare in Europe. Its uniqueness and beauty are therefore internationally recognized. The Tower can be visited and you can thus discover all secrets about its functioning and the procedures used in the past to rearrange it. In addition, the Tower houses a terrace from which you can enjoy a splendid panoramic view over the whole city. SANTA MARIA DELLA PIEVE Santa Maria della Pieve Piazza Grande is a true triumph of magnificent and scenographic architectures, among which it is worth mentioning the church dedicated to Santa Maria della Pieve. Built around the year 1000, it is one of the most important examples of Romanic architecture in the entire Tuscany region. Its external walls are characterized by a series of columns that cover them almost entirely and each column has a capital different from the other: this makes Santa Maria della Pieve a work admirable for hours, if he lingered carefully on every detail. The interior, on the other hand, is particularly sober. The apse of the church overlooks the Piazza Grande and contributes to making this site even more attractive and fascinating. THE VASARI MUSEUM Since Vasari gave a great contribution to the city and to the whole of Tuscany, his house, which he bought in 1511, has now become a museum. This place houses works, sketches and writings by the renowned artist from Arezzo. In addition to his works, it is interesting to dwell on the walls of the house: the frescoes that dominate them are not only work of Vasari, but also of his numerous pupils who attended the house to learn the techniques and secrets of a formidable artist. AREZZO'S CUISINE A “Tagliere (Platter)” Arezzo is surrounded by hills and mountains, by fertile lands and skilled workers, who have been able to exploit all the products of the land to build their own culinary identity. To end the city tour in the best possible way, you just have to try its cuisine! The gastronomy of the city of Arezzo is homemade, but we know that the most authentic flavors are also the tastiest. We advise you to order platters of Casentino cold cuts and cheeses, to be enjoyed together with excellent local honey. Do not miss the Arezzo's acquacotta, the pappardelle with meat sauce, the gnocchi with ricotta and spinach, the pici with various toppings. Its main courses are mastered by Chianina, the Tuscan cut of meat par excellence. The typical dessert of Arezzo, on the other hand, is Gattò Aretino, a log of sponge cake dipped in chocolate and alchermes. What are you waiting for? Arezzo is definitely a city to visit in every season! This beautiful city can be easily reached from our holiday villas, like Villa Casentino, Villa Capolona and Santa Flora.

Puglia: the heel of the Italian peninsula, where histories, cultures, and civilizations have come together since antiquity to create one-of-a-kind traditions. Puglia’s territory and location have cultivated a rich diversity of farming, animal husbandry and fishing. The resulting dishes are simple—and simply delicious—examples of the renowned Mediterranean diet. Grains, legumes, fresh vegetables and fish take center stage, as well as delicious desserts that are adored by visitors to this splendid region. Let’s discover the top 10 traditional dishes from Puglia, and get ready for our next food and wine tour! 1. Orecchiette e cime di rapa: Orecchiette pasta with broccoli rabe Handmade by skilled pasta artisans, this one-of-a-kind pasta is called “little ears” for its ear-like shape. There are many different sauces and gravies used with orecchiette, but the most delicious and famous is broccoli rabe sautéed with anchovy filets to lend incredible flavor to the whole dish! It’s impossible to resist a second helping, which you will surely be offered. 2. Polpette di pane: Bread fritters Bread fritters are a homemade specialty of southern Italian mothers and grandmothers, in the tradition of frugal housekeeping. Nothing goes to waste! Egg, parsley and other herbs are added to stale bread soaked in milk, then the batter is fried until crispy and delicious. Fresh out of the oil, enjoyed while waiting for lunch, they are the perfect finger food! 3. Pasticciotto An authentic breakfast in Lecce isn’t complete without pasticciotto: a flaky pastry shell filled with custard. Nothing more, nothing less, but the pasticciotto’s simplicity is what makes it irresistable. Legend has it that pasticiotto was the result of a pastry chef’s mistake in the 1700s. When he didn’t have enough ingredients for an entire cake, the chef decided to make a small dessert instead, and pasticiotto was born. It’s available in all bars and pastry shops, and not just at breakfast, so you can indulge at any time of day! 4. Cozze arraganate: Baked mussels These mussels from the province of Taranto are the most delicious in Puglia! They are stuffed with egg, parsley and cheese, then broiled in the oven: a succulent and original way to eat Italy’s most delicious mussels. You can find them in any restaurant along the coast of Taranto, as well as in the area of Salento. 5. Focaccia barese: Bari-style focaccia Soft, thick dough with crunchy edges and just the right amount of oil. Sweet cherry tomatoes and oregano top this focaccia, which has become the symbol of Puglia street food. It’s as famous as the pizza of Naples, but seldom made in other regions because frankly it’s one of a kind! Bari-style focaccia can be found hot out of the oven at bakeries and takeaway shops, not just in Bari, but all over Puglia! 6. Melanzane ripiene: Stuffed eggplant The pride of homecooks, each with their own recipe: the recipe for stuffed eggplant is simple, but the flavor evokes Sundays with family. Whole eggplant skins, cut in half, are stuffed with eggplant flesh cooked in plenty of oil and tomato, mixed with cheese, sometimes meat, breadcrumbs and plenty of love. Baked in the oven until golden and voilà: it’s a simply exquisite dish. 7. Panzerotti Fried in boiling oil, panzerotti are Puglia’s specialty! These half-moons filled with tomato, mozzarella and anchovies are a must for foodies and the perfect alternative to a simple sandwich. There is a wide variety of creative and refined fillings to please all palates. So bring on the fillings with cured meats, cheeses, vegetables and delicious sauces. Don’t miss out! 8. Cartellate The one and only holiday treats: cartellate! Their traditional rose shape resembles baby Jesus’s crown. Cartellate are made from a simple dough of flour and white wine, and then they are, of course, fried. After cooking, honey or vincotto are added according to individual taste and the cook’s recipe. Don’t turn your back or they’ll be gobbled up before you know it! 9. Friselle During the hot summer, friselle are the key to a light and fresh lunch between a dip in the sea and your afternoon nap. Also called frise, friselle are made from an O-shaped roll that’s divided in half and toasted. Friselle are soaked in water according to taste, topped with oil and rubbed with cherry tomatoes just like normal bruschetta. And don’t forget oregano, the omnipresent herb of Puglia cuisine. Recently, gourmet friselle have also become popular, with burrata, anchovies and pesto, as well as salmon and avocado! 10. Fave e cicorie: Fava beans and chicory Last but not least: the real tradition from inland Puglia, made from simple, wholesome ingredients by humble farmers. Fava beans and chicory is not just a dish, it’s an aroma, an emotion, the feeling of home and wholesomeness. Dried white fava beans are cooked for hours until they soften into a puree, and chicory from the fields is lightly sauteed. They come together on the plate and are topped with a simple drizzle of oil. It’s a dish that will stir your emotions by taking you back in time. There are many more traditional dishes in the small but incredibly diverse region of Puglia. To discover them all your only choice is to go try them in person! For a fantastic vacation in Puglia tasting the region’s specialties, we recommend staying in one of our vacation villas in Puglia like Trullo Santo Stefano, Meadow Luxury Villa!

According to some, Pistoia is like a "little Florence" with an enormous amount of art and beauty inside. Although it is less known than other cities such as Pisa or Lucca, Pistoia is a delightful center where you can stroll in peace, admiring amazing monuments and the architectural traces of a flourishing past. Observing the medieval palaces, the main squares and the lovely buildings, you can retrace the history of the city and discover its smallest details. Fall in love with every glimpse of this stunning Italian town! If you love nightlife, art and the charm of small Tuscan centers, Pistoia is the ideal destination for you! It is located halfway between Pisa and Florence and is the perfect place to have a holiday in Tuscany. But what are the best things to see in Pistoia? Read on and discover the list of the most beautiful attractions you can find in this city! 1. Cathedral of San Zeno and Piazza del Duomo Piazza del Duomo is certainly the center of city life. The main monument is the Cathedral of San Zeno, a building erected on Roman ruins which is also the oldest building in Pistoia. The Cathedral was built in the Middle Ages, but it only acquired its present appearance in the 14th century. The magnificent marble facade is made of white and green serpentine marble and features columns, arches and artistic decorations. 2. Battistero di San Giovanni The baptistery of San Giovanni is located in the center of Piazza del Duomo and has a charming Gothic style, with decorations in white and green marble. It has an octagonal plan and is covered with a dome frescoed by the famous artist Andrea Pisano. Inside the baptistery, it is also possible to admire a baptismal font from the 13th century. 3. Piazza della Sala While Piazza del Duomo can be considered the artistic and historical center of the city, Piazza della Sala is certainly the commercial and social spot. It is one of the oldest squares, where the city market has been taking place for centuries. In the morning, the square is filled with the voices and noises of those who go to the market to shop, while in the afternoon the atmosphere is pleasant and quiet. During the night, the square comes alive with hundreds of people flocking to its bars to have an aperitif or to meet their friends! 4. Palazzo del Comune Palazzo del Comune is the seat of political power in Pistoia, which has resided there since 1294. The building was completed in 1348 and is also known as Palazzo di Giano, the name of the Podestà who commissioned its construction. The plan of the building is rectangular and the austere facade has important arches with mullioned windows and three-mullioned windows. It is an impressive building that today houses the beautiful Municipal Museum, full of Italian works of art created between 1200 and 1800. . 5. Ospedale del Ceppo The ancient Ospedale del Ceppo is located in Piazza Giovanni XXIII and was founded in the 13th century, when it played an important role for the community during the period of the Black Plague. The beautiful facade has many decorations, some of which are made by Benedetto Buglioni and Giovanni della Robbia, two famous terracotta decorators in Italy. Its frieze is, in fact, very famous: the beautiful scenes portray the theological and cardinal virtues and shed light on the theme of assistance and Mercy. 6. The Zoo of Pistoia The Pistoia zoological garden is a must! The zoo is home to an incredible variety of animals, which come from all over the world. It is a unique place to introduce the little ones to new exotic breeds and to spend a pleasant afternoon with their family! It is located only 15 minutes from the center of Pistoia and is certainly one of the most fun places to discover with children. Are you looking for a holiday home for rent near Pistoia? Discover more about Antico Fienile, one of our beautiful properties for rent near Pistoia! © Alice Pilastri

Maremma is a splendid area located in the south of Tuscany , famous for its green landscapes, enchanting villages and dream beaches! You don't really need to go to the Caribbean Sea to dive into crystal clear waters and see the turquoise shades of a wonderful sea! Thanks to the fine sand and the stunning locations, the beaches in Maremma can be some stunning travel destinations to spend a summer holiday. Do you want to know which are the most beautiful beaches in Maremma? Read on and check out the list of the best places to see on a summer holiday in Maremma! 9. Gulf of Follonica The first stop on a trip to Maremma is the Gulf of Follonica, where you can spot some wonderful beaches. This stretch of coast is made up of fine sand and the seabed slopes gently, so as to allow people of all ages to enjoy their holiday. One of the most suggestive bays is Torre Mozza, located just 3-4 kms away from the center of Follonica. In front of the crystalline sea, there are the remains of a coastal watchtower from the 16th century. 9. Il Bagno delle donne (Women's Baths) in Talamone The name of this beach has fascist origins, because during this period, the entrance was allowed only to women. Now, it is a suggestive place frequented by snorkelers and trekking lovers, as you have to walk for a couple of kilometers between stones and rocks to reach the bay. However, the colors of the sea will reward all the effort! Bagno delle Donne stands on a fine gravel beach and the colors of its waters are truly spectacular. 8. Beach of Ansedonia If you love sand, but also history, you can't miss the beach of Ansedonia! As well as being a beautiful bay, Ansedonia houses a medieval defensive tower (where the composer Giacomo Puccini has also lived) and the "Tagliata Etrusca", an engineering work made by Ancient Romans. Another impressive site is "Spacco della Regina", a natural fissure in the rock where, according to a legend, Queen Ansedonia hid an enormous treasure. 7. Beach of Marze "Spiaggia delle Marze" is a perfect bay for those looking for comfort and a wonderful place to swim with friends and family! The coast is located between Castiglione della Pescaia and Marina di Grosseto, it is 100 meters wide and 6 km long. So, it is suitable for everyone, both for those who practice extreme sports, both for those who want to relax under the sun on the large free beach. What makes this beach enchanting is the contrast between the bright blue of the sea, the golden color of the sand dunes and the green of the Mediterranean scrub: you really cannot miss it! 6. Cala di Forno Cala di Forno is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Maremma Natural Park, a green area near Marina di Grosseto. Unfortunately, it is not easy to reach it: you must be accompanied by a park guide to walk the natural path, which is 12.4 km long. However, the walk will be rewarded with a beautiful place at the end! This paradise on earth is a long strip of white sand surrounded by the green and it is often possible to meet deer, fawns, seagulls and other wild animals walking on it. 5. Beaches of Giannella and Feniglia Giannella and Feniglia are two twin beaches located in the Orbetello lagoon and they connect the mainland to the Argentario promontory. Both are sandy, 8 km long and recognized as two of the most beautiful traits of coast in Tuscany. However, they also present some differences between them: Giannella beach faces north and it offers numerous services, while La Feniglia is mainly a free beach surrounded by a splendid natural reserve. Based on the wind and on your particular needs, you can choose the beach that suits you best! 4. Beaches of Argentario The Argentario needs no introduction! This famous tourist destination is loved by many VIPs and tourists looking for the beauty of wild nature. The promontory offers many beaches and coves, such as Cala di Gesso, La Soda, Bagni di Domiziano or Cala Grande. Some can be reached on foot via paths, but others can only be visited by arriving from the sea with a boat. The view from the top of the Argentario is always breathtaking: immersed in the vegetation, the rocky coves are bathed by a turquoise sea that create a splendid landscape! 3. Beach of Capalbio Are you looking for a fascinating, tropical beach that is frequented by VIPs and celebrities? Then you can't miss the beach of Capalbio, one of the southernmost bays in Tuscany! This sandy stretch of coast is famous for its beautiful dunes, which follow each other for all its 10 km in length. Capalbio offers a free beach, but also a series of bathing establishments and bars where you can have an aperitif at sunset. The crystal clear water is the setting for an enchanting place, ideal for groups of young friends or couples. 2. Beach of Rocchette This magnificent beach is located near Castiglione della Pescaia and has been elected as one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy for two consecutive times! This bay presents some light and fine sand, but also a trait of coast with pebbles and reddish stones. It is perfect for families because it offers all kinds of services, for couples looking for an intimate place , but also for snorkelers, who can look for wild animals in the pebble bottom. Well, this tropical island is worth visiting at all costs! 1. Cala Violina For the top of the ranking we have chosen Cala Violina, a small paradise beach located in a natural reserve. The water is crystal clear, the view is gorgeous and the bay is surrounded by lush vegetation. The name of the beach can be traced back to the sound that the sand makes when it is stepped on, which looks just like that of a violin. This is due to the quartz grains that mix with the white sand! Cala Violina can be reached via some paths traced in the park and about 1 km long: a short walk is enough to discover the unique charm of this beach! Book your holiday in Maremma to see these magnificent beaches! If you are looking for a villa for rent in Maremma, then check out our some splendid properties in this area! © Alice Pilastri

Tuscany's beauties are endless! Considering its enchanted villages, dreamy landscapes and cities of art, this region is really the perfect destination for a memorable holiday. As well as Chianti, Val d'Orcia, Versilia and Maremma regions, there is a beautiful area in northern Tuscany that most tourists do not know, but it presents many natural wonders and splendid architectures. We are talking about Lunigiana, a borderland located between Tuscany, Liguria and Emilia Romagna that has always been a land of connection between north and south. Here, a stretch of the Via Francigena passes and dozens of clashes between Byzantines and Lombards have taken place in the medieval period Precisely for this reason, the hills of Lunigiana feature some ancient castles built in the Middle Ages which were used to control the valleys. Many of them have been destroyed over time, but there are still some magnificent buildings that can be visited and admired. Want to find out where the castles of Lunigiana are? Start planning your tour checking the list of the 7 most beautiful medieval castles you should visit and live an exciting experience in Tuscany! The first town where you can find a castle is Pontremoli , also called "land of booksellers" as it houses a famous book festival. In the Middle Ages, merchants and pilgrims passing through this region were housed in Piagnaro Castle. Today, this beautiful building contains the Museum of Stele Statues of Lunigiana, which is dedicated to sandstone artifacts dating back to the pre-Roman period. The caslte dates back to the 11th century and it was part of a large defensive system built up to protect the village from enemy attacks. Although it has been recently renovated, the castle still retains a majestic appearance and it dominates the surrounding valleys from above, instilling fear in those who wish to approach. Even Aulla was a famous stop of the Via Francigena in the Middle Ages! The road to the town passes next to two magnificent castles, namely those of Bagnone and Filattiera, as well as to Fortezza della Brunella, an imposing quadrangular building on a dark rock dating back to the Renaissance. This is a typical fortification designed for firearms and today it houses the interesting Museum of Natural History of Lunigiana. Continuing towards "Passo del Cerreto", you will arrive in Fivizzano, a town located between the National Park of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines and the Regional Natural Park of the Apuan Alps. It's an area of ​​great naturalistic interest, where you can make beautiful walks or follow a trekking itineraries to explore every corner of this paradise. Not far from Fivizzano there is a charming castle called Castello della Verrucola , a perfectly preserved XII century building surrounded by high walls. A tour inside the castle is a fantastic journey through time that will take you between the legends and the terrifying ghosts that still inhabit this place! Another castle you must visit at all costs is located in the village of Licciana Nardi : Malaspina di Monti Castle is one of the best preserved fortifications in all of Italy and it still preserves an authentic charm. And finally, all you have to do is take a trip to Fosdinovo to admire its magnificent castle! The fort stands imposingly in the center of the village and is still in perfect condition. What makes this castle so special is the possibility to visit it at night, taking part in some suggestive night visits. In summer, small groups of visitors can go in search of ghosts with the guides of the castle, listening to the story of Bianca Maria Aloisa Malaspina. The legend tells that girl was walled alive in the castle and that her ghost still moves between its rooms and corridors... Are you ready to organize a vacation in Lunigiana? Book Casa al Bosco, a stunning property for rent in this area! © Alice Pilastri

A holiday in Umbria is always a good idea! Each visitor gets amazed by the beautiful cities of art and medieval villages,as well as by the wonderful landscapes that distinguish the so-called "green heart of Italy". Gentle hills, forests, lakes and waterfalls mix themselves in a beautiful natural context that remains stuck in the memory of people of all ages, both adults and children. In fact, there is no better way to visit this region than with your children! If you are traveling with kids and you are looking for great places suitable for your family, you have chosen the perfect destination: this region offers dozens of fantastic options to make everyone enjoy their holiday! Discover the top 9 places to visit with your family and start planning your trip to Umbria! 1- Lake Trasimeno This lake is so big that it is almost like a sea! Its shores host some precious villages to visit with kids, such as Passignano sul Trasimeno, San Feliciano, Panicale and Piegaro. Don't miss a visit of the beautiful castle of Castiglione del Lago, where the medieval atmosphere will take your children on a fantastic journey back in time! After the tour, you should go to the beautiful playground next to the lake, where children can have some fun, or decide to take the ferry to Polvese and Maggiore Islands, where you can explore the wild nature. If you like to sports, then don't miss the opportunity to ride on the wonderful 60 km cycle path, where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful nature of the Lake's area. 2- Perugia Perugia means... chocolate! The historical chocolate company called "Perugina" is based in this city and offers the possibility to visit both "the house of chocolate" and the Perugina Museum, which is dedicated to the history of the enterprise. The tour ends with an amazing tasting of countless typesof chocolates and sweets! If you have have planned your visit to Perugia at the end of October, you will also be able to take part to "Eurochocolate" festival! From October 18th to 27th, Perugia hosts a fantastic chocolate fair that sees the participation of master chocolatiers from all over the world. Children (and adults as well) will surely appreciate it! 3- The Città della Domenica The "City of Sunday" is located a few kilometers from Perugia and is the oldest amusement park in Italy. A fun "safari" will make you meet many wild animals, which also come from some distant places such as the American prairies. Also, the "Città della Domenica" includes the village of Pinocchio and the castle of Sleeping Beauty that children can visit on foot or by a colourful train! 4- Gubbio Gubbio is also called "the City of the Fools", and the reason is simple. It is possible to get "the license of crazy" turning around the Bergello fountain for three times in front of an authentic Gubbio's inhabitant. Children will be thrilled to get the fainal parchment from the Congregation of the Mad! Moreover, this lovely city offers many interesting exhibitions for children in every period of the year. 5- The Marmore Falls La Cascata delle Marmore is an unmissable destination! It has three jumps of water and it reaches a total height of 165 meters. The Marmore park offers four trekking paths passing thorugh the main hidden beauties of the area, as well as the possibility to practice rafting and climbing activities. Children can also take part to the "Fantapasseggiata dello Gnefro", a magic guided tour with the elf who lives in the Caves! 6- Narni That's right: Narni is the city that inspired the book "The Chronicles of Narnia"! Visiting this town is like taking a dip in the fabulous world of the book, which starts from Palazzo Eroli, where there is a big lion in stone looking like King Aslan. Also, Narni's Castle hosts a medieval theme park with witches, jesters and princes, where children can be named "ladies" or "knights" after passing some courage tests! 7- Papigno Papigno is located near Terni and it presents an open-air museum called "Il paese dei balocchi", which is totally dedicated to Roberto Benigni's movies "La vita è bella" and "Pinocchio". Visiting this magical village always gives some fabulous emotions! 8- Dunarobba The fossil forest of Dunarobba is found near Avigliano Umbro and it preserves the trunks of redwood dating back to the Jurassic period. A walk in the world of dinosaurs will surely make children enthusiasts! 9- Church of Santo Stefano di Ferentillo If you like horror movies and you are seeking some thrill, a stop at the Romanesque crypt of the church of Santo Stefano di Ferentillo is a must. There are twenty authentic mummies, which are perfectly preserved thanks to the dry atmosphere of the undergrounds. It will be a terrifying visit! Would you like to book a villa in Umbria for your next trip? Choose one of our holiday rentals in the region, like Villa Contessa or Villa Assisi! © Alice Pilastri