Despite our love for Rome (the first leg of our trip), I was looking forward to getting some fresh air and seeing what Tuscany was all about. We had rented an apartment within a Tuscan farmhouse – Agriturismo Incrociata – complete with pool, outdoor dining, and views of rolling hills.

Tuscany

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After a lazy morning sleep-in, we ventured to nearby Siena to explore the town. It is backdrop to many a movie, and its hilly winding streets finally lead to a flat open square. Back on the road again in search for lunch, and we stumbled along a small place called Casanova di Ama. Shame, I’m pretty sure we interrupted their siesta with our grumbling bellies, but they were kind enough to feed us the usual Italian affair of breads, meats, and cheese, accompanied by local wine and grappa.

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One of the best days we had in Tuscany was simply taking time to relax and read by the pool. We had an early BBQ dinner with fresh meat from the only place in town that seemed to sell any, and simply enjoyed each others company.

Tuscany

Tuscany

Our last full-day in Tuscany saw us taking a 2 hour journey to Castello di Banfi in Montelcino – a castle with beautiful manicured grounds, lunch with an amazing pinot grigio, and some pretty good views as far as the eye could see. Considering ourselves explorers by now, we left in pursuit of natural hot springs in a town named Saturnia. We had no address so were excited when the first signs appeared leading us in the right direction. The springs were as always, a little on the nose, but after you got used to it then you enjoyed the warm streaming waters.

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Springs

That evening saw us returning to a recommended nearby restaurant with a friendly waiter who we encouraged to try the wine we had bought. In Italy they pop the cork and smell it, and ensure it is good wine before pouring. Luckily he gave his approval through broken English and we thanked him for his hospitality in piecemeal Italian. Communicating in a foreign language isn’t always easy, but with time comes experience and the use of certain words or phrases shows you are trying, which they appreciate.

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For me, a Tuscany honeymoon is the perfect destination to slow down, unwind, and give yourselves the break that isn’t often found in the months prior to your wedding. It has fine wine, fresh produce, vineyards for days, and surprising places such as the hot springs we found. Better yet, why not consider Tuscany for a destination wedding too!

Images by Mr + Ms Chevron

Swirl divider The Eternal City: Rome