SAEDNEWS: Experience Tuscany, Italy, where lyrical landscapes, world-class art, and exceptional cuisine exist in perfect harmony with the land.
According to Saednews, Ever since the Etruscans settled here, Tuscany has captivated travelers. The Romans established their grain stores in the region, medieval Christians left their mark, and Napoleon spent his exile in a beautiful neoclassical villa surrounded by fig trees and overlooking the sea on the idyllic island of Elba. Florence’s churches and historic monuments became essential stops for British aristocrats on their nineteenth-century Grand Tours—and they remain just as enchanting today. At sunset, when the Arno River takes on a rosy glow, the city leaves a lasting impression, especially for those drawn to old-world elegance and timeless style.
The Etruscans had a deep appreciation for fine art, while the Romans, always eager to display their importance, left behind their characteristic monumental sculptures. But it was during the Middle Ages and Renaissance that Tuscany truly reached artistic greatness, as painters, sculptors, and architects created masterpieces of worldwide significance.
Today, these works are preserved in churches, museums, and galleries throughout the region. Tuscany’s artistic heritage remains exceptional, while Florence’s street art and the sculpture parks scattered across the countryside bring the region’s creative spirit into the twenty-first century.
Few places are as closely connected to the richness of their land as Tuscany. It is a destination where people take time to think, talk, and enjoy their food. Local, seasonal, and sustainable cuisine is at the heart of the region, and Tuscans take great pride in the quality of their produce.
Tuscany is instantly recognizable: the dome of Florence Cathedral, gentle rolling hills disappearing into quiet country lanes in the morning light, and sculptural cypress trees create a landscape that seems almost too beautiful to be real.
Yet central Italy offers far more than postcard scenery. Golden wheat fields, silvery olive groves, and pea-green vineyards arranged in precise rows across the hills provide a magnificent introduction to medieval hilltop villages, mountain ranges, and lush forests in the northern part of the region.
Commonly known as “Il Campo,” this sloping square has been the social heart of Siena since the city was reorganized under the Consiglio dei Nove in the mid-twelfth century. Built on the site of a Roman marketplace, its distinctive paving is divided into nine sections representing the members of the governing council.
Today, the square functions like a giant open-air carpet where local residents and visitors gather, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere. Cafés line its perimeter, making it an ideal place to sit and watch the city go by.
A lively, crowded, and wonderfully informal restaurant, Trattoria Mario has managed to retain its character despite its legendary reputation and appearance in countless guidebooks. Mondays and Thursdays are dedicated to spaghetti, while Friday is fish day. For steak lovers, it is a classic Florence destination for a traditional Florentine-style steak.
Barbialla Nuova is a large organic and woodland estate in the heart of Tuscany. Guests can stay on the farm in luxurious apartments or in a farmhouse managed by a small international community of staff.
The estate is dedicated to balancing aesthetics with purpose, preserving tradition while encouraging innovation.
Barbialla Nuova is an ideal place to disconnect from everyday life and relax according to the rhythms of nature. At the same time, it offers a variety of experiences designed to make a stay unique and memorable.
Guests who wish to take part in these activities are advised to reserve in advance. Some experiences are available only during particular seasons, while others depend on the availability of individual instructors.
Italy is about much more than pasta and pizza. Chef Serenella guides guests through the secrets and techniques of Italian cooking. Under her direction, participants prepare a three-course meal using local, organic ingredients.
At the end of the workshop, guests can enjoy a wonderful meal, with plenty of leftovers to take away for the following day—all without leaving their apartment. The activity is available exclusively to guests staying at Barbialla Nuova. Advance booking is recommended because the chef's schedule can fill quickly.
If you would like to explore local cuisine without leaving your apartment, Barbialla Nuova can arrange for a private chef. Choose your dishes from a delicious menu, and the chef will come to your kitchen and prepare a memorable meal for you.
If you are too tired to cook but still want to enjoy delicious lasagna—either traditional or vegetarian—along with a fresh mixed salad and tiramisu, the Barbialla Nuova staff can arrange food delivery with 24 hours’ notice.
The Barbialla Nuova estate is one of the few private properties in the region with a marked network of walking trails, extending for approximately 18 kilometers.
More experienced hikers can begin their journey at the estate and continue onto hiking routes beyond the property, making it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
