LIVING IN THE RENAISSANCE

The Italian region of Tuscany is a historical paradise, and you can see it all at your leisure with a self- catered NOVASOL holiday

WHY TUSCANY?

Apart from being the cradle of the Renaissance, Tuscany boasts an impressive seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Few other European destinations so perfectly blend rich history with great weather and legendary hospitality.

Arguably the region’s greatest treasure is the endlessly picturesque city of Florence. If you’re looking for somewhere to start, go and see the city’s most prominent landmark – the Duomo. The cathedral’s stunning dome and façade dominate the skyline, while inside you can see a breathtaking array of stained- glass windows. Other highlights include the world’s greatest collection of Renaissance art at the Uffizi gallery.

More historical gems await in Pisa. A picture in front of its iconic leaning tower is obligatory, but its surrounding religious architecture is just as striking, particularly the Battistero and Duomo. And if you still haven’t had your fill of astonishing cathedrals and open town squares, the city of Siena is another destination not to be missed.

You can sample the beautiful countryside in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Val d’Orcia, with its sweeping valley views, while the nearby town of Pienza is also UNESCO-recognised. Crown it all off with a visit to the Medici Villas and Gardens, where you can walk through the striking Renaissance palace’s art exhibitions, as well as its bucolic surrounding gardens.

WHY NOVASOL?

There’s no better way to access all the cultural and natural riches that Tuscany has to offer than with a holiday home by NOVASOL, who have more than 1,400 across the region and over 5,500 across Italy. Not only does self- catering allow you to visit all these destinations at your own pace, but you can make yourself truly at home in a way that you can’t with a hotel. Wherever in Tuscany your NOVASOL holiday home is, you’ll have complete freedom to immerse yourself in the local culture. Take a look at three exceptional- quality, reasonably priced options to make your Tuscan home from home.