LA REGINA

Originally built in the 14th century, this beautifully restored, sprawling Tuscan villa once lived a former life as a convent. Nestled among the vineyards and rolling green hills of the Chianti wine region, Villa La Regina’s owners have worked tirelessly to breathe new life into the estate, creating a sleek, contemporary villa and a true slice of Tuscan countryside bliss. Free-range chickens lay fresh eggs for breakfast, vegetables grown in the garden feature throughout the kitchen, and olive oil produced on the estate remains a mainstay in meals prepared by the in-house chef. The nearby village of Panzano — with its handful of local restaurants and lively Sunday market — is less than a 30-minute stroll from the villa, while some of the region’s most renowned wineries and Michelin-starred restaurants all sit within easy day-tripping distance.

The main house is anchored around a lemon- and jasmine-scented courtyard, providing a wonderful focal point for dining, socialising, and relaxing. Inside, a thoughtful blend of old and new reflects the renovation itself, with contemporary furniture sitting comfortably alongside beautiful antiques. Ancient stone walls and original wooden beams frame rooms filled with modern art and genuine designer flair. Each of the six light-filled, air-conditioned bedrooms includes its own seating area, perfect for curling up with a good book while soaking in the pastoral views, while the showpiece chef’s kitchen — complete with marble countertops and an Aga — spills out onto an alfresco dining area furnished with outdoor sofas.

Wellness and relaxation sit at the heart of Villa La Regina, with gardens designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Lavender-edged paths lead to a mineral-enriched saltwater infinity pool and a cedar hot tub overlooking the olive groves, alongside an infrared sauna and high-spec gym. Guests can enjoy a number of scenic countryside walks starting right from the villa, along with a handful of electric bikes available for exploring the surrounding olive groves and charming medieval villages nearby.