Domus Eleiva Relais

An 18th-Century Tuscan Farmhouse with a Pool and Tennis Court

Tucked into the rolling hills of Tuscany’s upper Maremma region, this vast estate is surrounded by stately Italian cypresses and lapped by the Etruscan Riviera. Its meticulous, five-year restoration completed in 2023, the estate is boldly authentic. Facades are crafted of local stone, ceilings reveal original crossbeams, vast 18th-century hearths add rustic antique flair, and ancient terracotta tiles spread across the floors. Furnishings were curated to match the property’s rural estate spirit and styling, and outdoor areas were updated for modern entertaining. There’s a wood-fired oven outside, a dark-bottomed stone swimming pool, a jacuzzi with views, an outdoor lounge/bar, a manicured garden and a clay tennis court.

Created to accommodate 12 guests, the farmhouse has been divided into private apartments, each suite with a living area, kitchen and terrace, in addition to the bedrooms and baths. Breakfast is included, and there is an on-site bar as well as the possibility to book cooking classes, pizza- or pasta-making instruction, and wine-tasting tours. Bicycle rentals are also available.

Around

Set within easy reach of the Etruscan coast and the Tuscan archipelago, this property is set about 20 miles from Piombino Port in Suvereto. Built over the sea, Piombino has always been an active naval port that today is better known for its marina and ferries to the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago, such as Elba Island, some 10 kilometers out to sea, as well as Sardinia and Corsica. Napoleon assigned Piombino to his sister, Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi, who referred to the city as her “little Paris,” and brought the area increased prosperity. The town’s historical center dates from the 13th century, and there are numerous monumental buildings from the 15th century, such as the Rivellino, a semicircular fort.

Restaurants and taverns line the town’s principal Corso Vittorio Emanuele, and the area is known for its seafood, of course. Piombino’s Clock Tower is worth a visit, and there’s an impressive view from the terrace of the Piazza Bovio, a picturesque square built into the sea cliff, with vistas out to Elba Island. The town’s ancient harbor is still a working fishing port, home to colorful boats and glinting waters flanked by fountains. A 13th-century castle overlooks the sea, and there’s a neighborhing fortress dating from the 1500s.

The Natural Park of Montioni is located in the area, and the landscape is blanketed with vineyards broken up by cobbled medieval villages, olive groves, and wine estates. Favorite beaches in the region include Calamoresca Beach (accessible only on foot or bike) that’s a favorite of snorkelers, Rimigliano Nature Park’s public beach with some five kilometers of golden sand, and Baratti Beach, famous for its unique red sands shaded by umbrella pines. There’s an Olive Route less than two miles from the relais, and the Parco Archeominerario San Silvestro is less than five miles away.

Location

Nearest airports: Pisa (41 miles), Florence (55 miles)

Best time to visit

April to October