The house is set in a large fenced private garden beyond which rambles a further 10 hectares of forest. Head back down the winding cypress lined track to the road and choose any direction to stroll, hike or picnic and experience the seasonal offerings of the land. Keen eyed locals inhabit these woods on weekends and can often be seen triumphant, clutching their treasures. Chestnuts, wild asparagus as fine as wheat, which make delicious frittate, and funghi porcini are all plentiful in these hills at different times of year, although the Tuscans usually prevail over less experienced foragers.

From the marble garden setting enjoy sweeping views of the Arno valley and across to the famous Vallombrosa Monastery nestled in the magnificent oak and pine woodlands of the central Apennines. Or take a gin and tonic and watch the sun set over our own little olive grove. The apricot tree here bears a surprising amount of fruit. As well as comfortable outdoor furniture, umbrellas and shady trees, depending on the season the garden may provide grapes, raspberries, apricots or figs.  The squirrels usually get the hazelnuts and almonds. The gardener keeps the grass down and fills the window boxes with summer flowers.