Description Paolo's View: Palaia

Take a step back in time at this 18th-century Tuscan home. A slew of character features await inside, such as vaulted brick ceilings, terracotta floors, antique furniture and traditional paintings harking back to Italy's artsy heyday. The decor won't suit everyone, but what everyone will appreciate, however, is the sprawling garden and the private swimming pools (one for adults, one for kids). You won't be short of spots to sit back with a glass of wine and bask in the scenery. But, when you're ready to venture further afield, why not explore Pontedera (a twenty-minute drive), Pisa (45 kilometres away) and all the postcard-worthy villages Tuscany is known for?

Home truths:
*All the bedrooms are on the upper floors, so this villa may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility. The twin bedroom can become a double by pushing the two beds together. Only the five bedrooms on the third floor have air conditioning.
*If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide three baby cots and four high chairs on request.
*The swimming pool is only available to use between 1st April and 1st November. It's unfenced, so children will need to be supervised outside at all times.
*We strongly suggest hiring a car to make the most of the location. There's private, uncovered parking available here.
*The traditional, dated decor here might not be to everyone's taste.