If you want to experience the Italian countryside without crowds of tourists, unspoiled western Tuscany may be the perfect place for you. Stay in one of our country houses or villas near the small village of Chianni, in a quiet agricultural area of the Era River Valley about 30 miles southeast of Pisa. The gently rolling hills are covered with wheat fields, olive groves, and vineyards. Historic hill towns such as Volterra and San Gimignano are a short drive away, and train service from nearby Pontedera takes you into Florence in about an hour.

Dozens of local restaurants offer authentic Tuscan cuisine at very affordable prices. If you like to cook, the numerous small farms produce excellent extra virgin olive oil and locally grown fruits and vegetables. Fresh bread, prosciutto and distinct cheeses can be purchased in the local market, as can the very drinkable local table wine.

The rental prices vary by time of year; July and August are generally the most expensive times. Prices include clean linens and furnishings, but not energy costs, which are paid for at the time of departure.

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