Situated in the hills just a few minutes’ drive northeast of Arezzo, this charming property is surrounded by 40 hectares of tranquil landscape, offering spectacular views. It lay on the ancient Roman road linking northern Italy with its capital, and was once a mediaeval military outpost, with a castle to guard the road (hence the name “Forte”), but with the passing of time it became a large, country residence. The main building has now been divided into five attractive apartments, while there are also two independent cottages for those who prefer more privacy; the smaller one would be ideal for a honeymoon. All the units – named after the great Renaissance artists of the region – have been carefully restored by its owners to maintain the original historic charm of the property. The cottages and apartments can be rented individually, but there are communal areas – including a large living room and kitchen – where big groups renting all the properties can gather. Forte di Tregognano is a perfect base for exploring the hidden surroundings of Tuscany and Umbria as well as castles, monasteries, forests and the art cities of Arezzo, Sansepolcro, Cortona, Florence, Siena and Perugia. Activities in and around the estate include table tennis, mountain bike excursions, trekking and ecological walks All the properties have their own private gardens. The shared swimming pool and sun deck are situated in a panoramic location surrounded by terraced gardens. There is a herb garden and a small lake and, in the woods beyond, a natural spring gurgles forth, and mushrooms, truffles, berries and chestnuts may be found across the seasons. The interiors are furnished in Tuscan style for comfort, with neat built-in kitchens. All the properties have their own independent heating (some also have fireplaces). Other equipment includes microwave ovens, satellite TVs, and telephones. There is a shared laundry room, and barbecue. The independent cottage for four people, Margarito (named after the 13th-century painter Margarito of Arezzo), has a full working kitchen for a small family.