Near the historically significant town of Cortona is Villa Ripa, an exquisite six-bedroom modern villa built in the classic Tuscan farmhouse style. Welcoming up to 14 guests, it's a delightful combination of traditional features such as exposed beams and wood panelling juxtaposed with contemporary furnishings and sophisticated embellishments to create a warm, homely and family-friendly villa.

Nearby Cortona is a mountain town filled with myths and legends and some remarkably good restaurants and boutique shopping opportunities. Its Etruscan roots are still on display in its historic town centre, with over a mile of walls dating back to the 5th century BC. You'll also find museums and galleries residing in its cobbled streets and charming piazzas.

Villa Ripa captures the real essence of Tuscan living. Its interiors are cool, calm and relaxed, while the outsides are picture-perfect with 'paint brush' trees, swathes of lavender and thyme, and golden views across the valleys, vineyards, and olive groves. Living spaces are informal yet elegant, while the dining areas give you the option of an intimate meal in the dining room or an al fresco family dinner on the terrace. The kitchen is sleek, and a special feature is a separate fitness room in a glass annexe that gives you incredible views while you work on your cardiac fitness.

The bedrooms are split between the main villa and the cottage. The main villa has five tranquil bedrooms, all with double beds and ensuites. One bedroom has a private entrance with access to a small loggia overlooking the pool. The cottage is a separate living space with a fully fitted kitchen, dining and living room, a double bedroom and a double sofa bed in the living room. The cottage has a private spa with a sauna, Turkish bath, showers and a massage cabin.

Outside, a stunning infinity pool tempts you to take an early-morning dip while wooded paths lead through the parkland surrounding the villa. With multiple terraces and secret spots in the gardens to find your private space, Villa Ripa is an exceptional villa that makes the ideal Tuscan escape for larger groups and families.