I’m playing catch up with my posting and coming across lots of words that I haven’t posted.

With Italy on my mind, as I am heading there in ten days, I found this delightful reminder of a Tuscan summer two years ago. Get inspired for next year!

The Renaissance il Ciocco Resort and Spa in Northern Tuscany is within easy driving distance from both Pisa and Florence airport with the journey taking less than two hours. Whether you hire a car or get a taxi from the airport, you will be met with spellbinding scenery en route to the hotel, which is just outside the town of Barga.

Your first sight of the hotel will be its grand terracotta exterior and tiered terrace which is crowned by the most opportune outdoor pool, where the azure blue of the pool punctuated by the green of its mountain backdrop will take your breath away. In fact, everywhere the eye can see is like a fairy tale, thanks to the rolling hills, distant vineyards and olive groves which make up the vista whichever direction you look; and the hotel is the jewel in the crown for those looking for an oasis to appreciate it all.

Read my review of the luxurious Renaissance Tuscany il Ciocco Resort and Spa here