Il Casale, Tuscany

3 km from the Etruscan town of Cortona, Il Casale is a 16th Century building made into comfortable apartments set in an English-style garden. The traditional brickwork, original sloping roof tiles, and the winding external staircase are testaments to the history of this residential complex. With a warm and welcoming staff, tours of the nearby villages, cooking classes, or wine tasting can be easily arranged, all of which helps to immerse you in the true Tuscan culture.

As well as the residences through Il Casale, you can stay in an upscale hotel at Villa Baldelli, rent an apartment in the city of Cortona at Belvedere Apartments , or rent your own private villa.

Serre di Parrano is a small hamlet located at an ancient crossroad dating back to the early 13th century. The villas and apartments were created from the original watchtower built in 1850, the school and the village chapel, which have all been beautifully restored in keeping with the traditional rural architecture of Umbria. With views overlooking the peaceful Umbrian countryside, Serre Di Parrano is a wonderful place to spend a quiet weekend or an entire vacation, relaxing by the heated pool or exploring nearby medieval villages.