No other country embraces art, history, architecture, music, scenic splendour and gastronomy in such a complete package as Italy. So it does not come as a surprise that many global real estate investors, seduced by the Italian lifestyle, are attracted to buying property in Italy.
The glorious region of Tuscany is arguably both the most famous and the most desirable of all the Italian regions. From its capital city of Florence, synonymous with the art and high drama of the Renaissance, to the beautiful Siena – a UNESCO World Heritage Site thought by many to be the best-preserved medieval city in Europe – Tuscany real estate is situated in a land of iconic beauty and artistic heritage.
Although it might have been the undulating green hills, regal lines of cypress trees and strade bianche (white roads) lined with paper-thin poppies that first brought property buyers to Tuscany, it is the exceptional culture on offer that keeps it a perennial favourite. UNESCO estimates that 60% of the world’s most important works of art reside in Italy and amongst those, half can be found in one Tuscan city: Florence.
Considered a safe haven for international lifestyle buyers, Tuscany real estate is a core market where the demand is healthy for a second home or a holiday home.
Buyers are looking for the advantages of the countryside, and, increasingly, for good links to Tuscany's main cities and airports. For many, the most alluring property is one that is situated in the Tuscan countryside but sits close to a charming town with all the amenities.
Strategically positioned halfway between Florence and the sea, and just a few miles from Pisa and its famed tower, Lucca enjoys that perfect location.
Renowned for its refinement and beauty, Lucca is an immensely picturesque town with a rich history that is magically preserved. In the old centre of the town, laneways that remain unchanged from medieval times are lined with church spires and occasionally interrupted by a charming sun-dappled plaza.
Outside the city, it is clear to see why so many noble families came here from the 15th to the 19th century and put down roots, constructing magnificent country residences that it is said number more than 300.
Dating back to the 17th century, this immensely impressive property in Tuscany with its surrounding buildings is the epitome of the elegant country house era. The spectacular estate consists of a stylishly presented main residence, alluring parkland, gorgeous casa colonica with two guest apartments, a 2-floor building with development potential, and a pretty private chapel that is still consecrated today.
Located in a fairy tale setting amongst the gentle hillsides just 15 minutes from Lucca, the extraordinary property beckons to discerning property buyers. Combining exquisite taste with relaxing informality, the sophisticated 3,000m2 country estate epitomises elegance in a privileged environment. The refined property is set on a massive plot of 12 hectares, a private estate that speaks of beauty and peace, with splendid views, harmonious atmosphere and absolute privacy. It is the quintessence of gracious living, a relaxing, heavenly place to savour and enjoy.
Distinguished by its architectural integrity, the strikingly elegant exterior is complemented by dazzling interior design and finesse. The splendid main residence is generously scaled, yet beautifully composed, boasting well-proportioned accommodation with five bedrooms.
The classically styled villa showcases an immaculate blend of aristocratic flair and easy intimacy, discreet sophistication and understated luxury. Painstakingly restored, fusing Old World grace and modern comfort to perfection, the stunning property is full of authentic character and craftsmanship. Adding to the elegant sense of space and refinement are many wonderful original features that have been meticulously preserved, including frescoes, impressive fireplaces, a grand central stairway and stone and terracotta detailing.
The exclusive villa has maintained its traditional layout, with the service rooms and storage placed on the ground floor and the piano nobile (noble level) on the first floor, with its imposing reception rooms, large open plan kitchen, library and dining room. Many of these rooms retain their original paint and fresco work, and enjoy wonderful views across the valley. Off the kitchen are the villa’s terraces and the shaded summer dining pergola.
Adjoining the fine main villa are two guest apartments, each with two bedrooms. These spacious residences provide open plan living-dining areas and contemporary designed interiors.
The blissfully private home is surrounded by impressive, serene grounds, graced with olive groves, vegetable and flower gardens, mature fruit orchards, parkland and south-facing vineyards, which are currently not in use. Embraced by far-reaching scenic vistas, the luxurious estate captures the heart and the imagination, with its charm, idyllic lifestyle and unspoilt beauty.
The exceptional property in Tuscany is gently nestled within an enchanting Lucchese village. As is typical in many such hilltop villages, the villa was the principal noble residence in the area, with its commanding views of the villages and surrounding landscape. In addition to its superior natural splendour, the noble estate is conveniently located to Pisa International Airport and the Tuscan coast (Forte dei Marmi), each 40 minutes away. Florence can be reached within an hour.
This private haven of sophisticated luxury boasts an elite pedigree of timeless distinction.
Price upon request.