INSIDE & OUT

La Pieve's subtly-lit contemporary interior sits perfectly within this ancient hospice's framework of exposed stone walls, brick arches and dark wooden beams. In the open-space living area, guests can lounge in inviting leather sofas around the central fireplace, which is dominated by a scenographic conical chimney in naturally rusted iron. The nearby dining table, its top made from a single slab of polished mahogany, seats up to 20. Sleek and streamlined, the fully-equipped kitchen makes exploring local produce a delight. Upstairs, 3 double bedrooms, each individually decorated and with its own stylish bathroom, enjoy views over the garden and surrounding countryside. Just off the courtyard is the Pieve's very own spa, with a plunge pool and steam bath fed by the hot springs beneath the property. With its pizza oven and grill, shady flagged outside eating areas, gorgeous swimming pool and landscaped 30 hectares gardens, Pieve di San Giovanni is the perfect home-from-home in which to enjoy Tuscany's balmy summer days and mild spring and autumn weather.