Our summer travels have brought us back to Tuscany once again. Here, in the heart of the region, our team of travel bloggers has reunited for EV Icon Italy. After spending our time between Emilia Romagna, indulging in wellness and traditional cooking experiences, and Tuscany, we find ourselves back where it all began, in the places where we proudly have our roots.
ANTICA VILLA MERELLI: A TIMELESS ADVENTURE
Our journey continues, driven by the curiosity to discover our new villa. The challenge for this location is to strike a balance between its rich history and the ability to offer modern hospitality.
Antica Villa Merelli is a grand villa dating back to the late 1500s. Lovingly restored by its current owners, the villa preserves its original architecture while incorporating luxurious materials like marble and pietra serena. Every room exudes elegance and warmth. It feels like an impressive and tranquil retreat, surrounded by grounds filled with centuries-old holm oaks.
Situated on a small hill 250 metres above sea level, Antica Villa Merelli is perfect for those seeking an experience in a historic villa with original style features. The artistic soul of the villa is reflected in its magnificent frescoes and hand-painted doors, each a unique work of art created by local artists.
The challenge has been met. The balance between history and hospitality, between signs of a distant past and the careful modern touches, is perfect! It feels as warm and welcoming as our hugs when we reunite after long weeks apart.
Arriving at the villa was a unique sensory experience. The scent of jasmine greeted us as we strolled along the tree-lined avenue and the leaves dancing in the wind created an almost dreamlike scene. The villa, with its splendid Renaissance-style furnishings and meticulous attention to detail, immediately transported us to another era. A week is simply not enough to bring us back to the present.
We decide to stay a little longer… All you have to do is ask… and it’s possible!
DAY 1: DELIGHTFUL DISCOVERY AND SWEET BELONGING
We wake up early, with the first rays of sunlight filtering through the curtains, casting delicate shadows on the frescoed walls. The birds are singing as we get ready for a day of discovery. Breakfast is a magical moment: fresh fruit from the orchard, freshly baked bread and homemade jams give us the energy we need. The aroma of coffee immediately creates a warm and familiar atmosphere.
We decide to explore the estate. We walk among the vineyards and olive groves, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the vibrant colours of the Tuscan countryside. The deep green of the leaves, the yellow of the wildflowers and the blue of the sky create a perfect picture. Each step brings us closer to the history of this place. It almost feels as though we can hear the voices of those who lived here centuries ago.
We return to the villa for lunch, prepared with fresh local ingredients delivered directly to the villa (discover the exclusive in-villa food delivery service here).
Under the jasmine-covered pergola, we enjoy a delicious meal: cured meats, local cheeses and Tuscan wine.
The afternoon is all about relaxation. We unwind by the pool, once again amazed by the stunning view of the Tuscan hills stretching out to the horizon. Some of us take the opportunity to write and take notes, inspired by the beauty of the place while others choose to swim or take a walk in the garden, discovering hidden corners and new details.
In the evening, after a convivial dinner under the stars, we gather in the frescoed living room to share our impressions and the stories we collected during the day. We feel as though we belong here too, part of something bigger, a harmony that is hard to even imagine amid the hustle and bustle of our city lives.
DAY 2: ART CITIES AND A BEATING HEART
The second day begins with a trip to the nearby medieval village of Monte San Savino. The cobblestone streets, artisan shops and little cafés make us feel like we’re in a film. Every corner tells a story and every stone has seen centuries of life pass by. We stop for lunch in a local trattoria where we enjoy traditional dishes prepared with love and passion.
The afternoon is dedicated to Arezzo, a city rich in history and art. We visit the cathedral, admire the frescoes by Piero della Francesca and wander through the historic centre. The mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture creates a unique atmosphere and we feel like explorers in a world full of wonders.
We return to the villa at sunset, greeted by a sky painted in shades of orange and pink. We sit in the garden, a glass of wine in hand and enjoy the spectacle of nature. The silence is broken only by the song of crickets and cicadas, and the scent of flowers gently envelops us.
This is the heart of Tuscany. This is where it all began and where we truly feel at home.
Our journey doesn’t end here!
Join us and stay connected to discover our next destination!
