The magnificently resorted 19th century Villa Lena has just flung open its shutters for the summer season. It is set among rolling hills, olive groves and vineyards in the picturesque Tuscan countryside with much more to offer its guests than a traditional Italian summer villa.
Set up as a hotel and an artist residency, the creative arts are at the very centre of this most inspiring environment. Artists who are currently working at the estate include: British photographer and contributor to Vogue, Purple and i-D, Mark Borthwick; Brooklyn-based collaborative design duo, Adam Frezza and Terri Chiao; Canadian artist and illustrator, Sarah Burwash; Russian artist and performer who represented Russia during the 63rd Venice Biennale in 2009, Georgy Ostretsov; and South-African jewellery designer, Katherine-Mary Pichulik.
Guests are invited to rent apartments or houses which are spread over the sprawling 500 hectare estate, including the original stables, which have been converted into guest rooms. The restoration of Villa Lena began in 2013, with interior designer Clarisse Demory reviving the living spaces by recycling and restoring the existing Tuscan furniture and combining it with vintage mid-century pieces. Rooms have been designed with an emphasis on a relaxed, shabby chic feel, with many of the furnishings and artworks being created at the residency.
Facilities at this expansive estate include a screening room, games room, three pools, a restaurant and bar; and the beautiful vegetable garden supplies most of the organic produce served in the restaurant.
With lots activities on offer and the area being perfect for hiking, Villa Lena is an exciting adventure destination with an artistic twist, which makes it the perfect family get-away-from-it-all vacation.
by Amanda Bernstein