The Hilltop Eyrie

This ancient Tuscan hamlet (or ‘borgo’) sits atop a hill, with views over the countryside as far as the eye can see. On a clear day, you can catch a glimpse of Corsica on the horizon. Surrounded by olive groves, organic vegetable gardens, ancient trees and donkey paddocks, this is the place to immerse yourself in provincial Italian life. Plus, the cities of Pisa and Lucca are within day-tripping distance.

Designed by architect Stefano Viviani, this villa blends into the landscape seamlessly. The wooden terrace juts out of the hillside, allowing for panoramic views of the countryside sprawling before you, from the cool of the plunge pool or the soothing heat of the hot tub. Loungers and reclining chairs are set up the face the view and there’s shaded dining and a lounge area on the lower terrace.

Inside, you can see the work of an architect on display in every handmade step, wall of windows and traditional-style fireplace. It’s a vision of soft greys and white, with picture-frame windows at every turn to display the view as proudly as any of the donkey-themed modern artworks on the walls. Sculptures are displayed with museum-level curation, in glass boxes, and the coffee table is littered with thick art books. The kitchen, beneath a wooden ceiling, is an ode to rusticana with a huge island in the centre, yet feels modern in dove grey and light wood. Then there are the bedrooms, both boasting panoramic views from walls of windows the instant you wake up.

Home truths:
*The borgo is connected by ancient stone staircases and pathways, so this place may not be suitable for those with limited mobility
*In a remote location, having a car is essential as there is no public transport, and you need to be comfortable driving up a steep hill
*There is free, private parking on premises
*You'll have your own private entrance here
*Your host can provide a cot, just ask
*There's a dedicated office nook here if you need to catch up on some work during your stay
*The gardens are not fenced so those with dogs should keep them supervised