Casa Azelia is set in a small hamlet amidst the olive groves and fields of golden sunflowers on the slopes of Cortona - the beautiful Etruscan town, featured in Frances Mayes' book 'Under The Tuscan Sun', and the film of the same name.

An ideal base for getting to know this beautiful and historic region, you will find it difficult to leave the charms of Cortona itself. Set on a hilltop, surrounded by its ancient walls, and topped off by the ruined fortress, it is famous for its glorious views over the Val di Chiana and Lago di Trasimeno. The small town is a treasure trove of cobbled streets and alleys, overflowing with Tuscan colour and life, but are also steeped in history with beautiful churches and twelfth century architecture combining with bustling piazza bars and cafes, as well as some excellent restaurants. It has frequent outdoor concerts and festas, and its lively local market will introduce you to the gastronomic specialities of the region.

Cortona is a perfect starting point for exploring the delights of Tuscany and Umbria, with Florence, Siena, Montepulciano, Assisi and Perugia all within an hour's drive; and just twenty minutes away the refreshing charms of Lake Trasimeno beckon. The closest beaches are overlooked by the picturesque old town of Castiglione del Lago. From here you can take ferries to the islands (good for lunch) or to other stunning villages around the lake; or perhaps just stay put, and sip an aperitivo watching the sun set across the water. Another lake well worth a visit for its sparkling clear waters is Lago di Bolseno - but it is at least an hour and a half away.

For those who don't want to drive the station at Camucia is about half a mile away, and there are good rail connections on all routes; Rome for instance is approximately a three hour journey. To get the best out of your stay however a car is recommended.

For more on Cortona see this excellent site http://www.tuscantreasures.net

"An absolutely charming apartment - a warm welcome, gorgeous garden and pool, and so much to see and do in Cortona, just up the hill. What more could you want?" Lahra, Adrian and Georgie