Le Ginestre

This elegant dusty pink villa sleeping 10, can be found, tucked away in abundant private olive and lemon groves, just set back and above the vibrant Porto Ercole harbour.  Villa Le Ginestre, once the privately owned Farmhouse of Princess Sofia Lanza di Borghese (of the noble Borghese dynasty – responsible for the wonders of St Paul’s Cathedral and Villa Borghese) has been lovingly restored by its current owner, who has retained its heritage whilst breathing new life and Latin American flair into the tasteful and eclectic interiors of the property. There's a homely feel to this tranquil, rambling farmhouse. Each bedroom, of which there are 5 (four with ensuite) are decorated cottage-style, with iron bedsteads and bright, patterned bedspreads and cushions. One is pink; others are in calming shades of green and brown. The bright and airy living room with a antique marble fireplace as a centrepiece, illustrates that this property can be enjoyed throughout the seasons with Argentario enjoying some of its best weather in early May and as late as the beginning of October. If the villa weren’t enticing enough the grounds and enveloping garden, home to trees of olives and cypress as well as an abundance of fragrant rosemary, lavender and bougainvillea will certainly inspire one to book. As well as a wonderful large pool and splendid views out to sea and to the historic Spanish fortresses of Forte Filippo and Forte Stella beyond, is the most charming and handsome wisteria covered pergola, with an outdoor seating area of beautifully upholstered sofas and chairs as well as a large dining table that can seat up to 12. Thus making this property the most idyllic home in which to entertain family and friends for long lunches and even longer dinners, as well as a moonlit aperitivo. In terms of exploring, as well as the aforementioned Porto Ercole, there is also the buzz of Orbetello nearby, or the “scene” of Capalbio a short distance away. The sandy long stretch of beach La Feniglia is a stonethrow away, as is Cala Galera marina where you can charter beautiful boats of all sizes for a day exploring the coastline. Or if you are looking to spend the day soaking up the culture of nearby cities Siena and Arezzo are less than an hour away or Florence and Rome are just under two hours away.