Villa Macario

Villa Macario has occupied its beguiling site in the undulating Tuscan countryside for almost a thousand years. Hewn from local stone and surrounded by ancient churches, pathways and vineyards it is serene in its magnificence. The surrounding countryside readily yields up riches to amateur foragers, with wild herbs as well as fig and olive groves. Some of Tuscany's most treasured historic sites are within a half hour's drive for a day or half day's exploration, notably Lucca and Pisa.

There are many fine dining opportunities just a short, scenic journey away, in this Italian gourmet's paradise. Pisa's array of restaurants can be overwhelming, but Osteria Bernardo is a consistently excellent establishment for inspiring culinary combinations from land and sea.

Forte Dei Marmi has more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than virtually anywhere else, in tune with its jetset reputation. Lux Lucis stands out for combining exceptional cooking with a heartstopping view from its vast windows, the sea and mountains combining majestically. Lucca has many wonderful places to eat but also offers the simpler pleasure of great focaccia to be bought and consumed on almost every square.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is probably the most famous local attraction, but there are so many more with easy reach of Villa Segale which would feature in any dream Tuscany travel itinerary. Perfectly preserved medieval Lucca is a true marvel, extraordinarily atmospheric to walk around and discover. Pietrasanta is probably the most famous sculpture hub on earth, and a fascinating place to spend time.

Coast as well as countryside are part of the regional charm: particularly bustling Viareggio with its wonderful fresh catch dining and of course ritzy Forte dei Marmi, which offers fabulous sunbathing, world class boutique shopping and limitless glitterati spotting in its tree-lined boulevards and beach promenades.