For many, Tuscany encapsulates everything appealing about the Italian countryside: rolling hills carpeted with vineyards, enchanting medieval villages, cypress-lined driveways and warm hospitality.

But perhaps the greatest experience in Tuscany is discovering the many medieval hilltop towns scattered through the countryside. From the famous towers of San Gimignano and charming Pienza to ...

It was the final week of the summer artist residency program at Villa Lena, a boutique hotel and farm stay in Tuscany, and the guests were celebrating a peaceful, productive month in the countryside.