# 5 Offerings
The services & amenities a property offers will add to your overall experience so you'll want to get this point out of the way early on. Do you require only simple and modest services, just the basics? Is a pool a must have? Were you craving a little spa pampering? Or how about something a little more high tech that offers flat screen TVs, high speed Internet and satellite TV? You would be the best judge as to what would make your experience the most enjoyable; we'll help you decide which property can offer you all you desire.

#4 What to do, what to do...
Of course you are going to want to decide what activities you'd like to participate in while holidaying. Do you enjoy taking in the scenery while hiking or biking? Would you like to view private wine cellars and indulge in some wine tastings? Perhaps you'd like to help around the farm by harvesting olives and later sampling some piquant olive oil with home baked bread? Maybe even pick up a few secrets in a cooking class with your own personal chef? This is just a sampling of activities you can enjoy at many of our properties.

# 3 Size Matters
Or does it? One of the decisions you'll have to figure out is what will be the size and capacity of your rental. Bigger isn't always better if you are looking for a quiet and intimate respite, but it would be important if you were bringing along 10 of your closest friends and family. Also, the more bathrooms included, the more expensive it will be. You'll need to decide if your best option is a modest 1 bedroom apartment, or a comfortable 6 bedroom home. Establishing this point will help you move along to the other important factors in choosing your rental property.

# 2 Location Location Location
Our most popular destinations for long stay rentals are Italy and France, but countries such as Portugal and Spain are on the rise. Choosing a destination is integral in influencing the experience you seek. For example, do you want to enjoy the laid back Italian life, or the chic Provencal style, or the sunny Portugal beaches. There is something for everyone in each destination so we can ensure great memories and excellent stories wherever your heart leads.

#1 Welcome Home
Now that you've decided what services you need, what you want to do, how much space you'll need, and where you want to be, all you have to decide is where you want to enjoy your stay. Some prefer to be in town or close to one so they can take advantage of all the off site perks such as quaint local shops, a selection of eateries, and short drives, whereas others will long for a hidden gem tucked away into the backroads of the countryside to really enjoy some serenity and privacy. Our collection of properties include village apartments and homes, working country farms, elegant villas and charming B & Bs so you are sure to find the perfect spot for your dream holiday.

Hunter's Lamb

This recipe comes to us thanks to the lovely Tuscan Mammas from Le Case Del Borgo and is just one of the many recipes they are happy to teach students during their cooking classes.

Shoulder of baby lamb: 1 Kg / 2 lb
Ripe or canned tomatoes: 400 gm / 14 oz
Dry salted black olives: 100 gm/ 31/2 oz
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
Fresh Rosemary Sprigs
1 cup White wine
Olive oil
Salt and Pepper

Bone the shoulder carefully, removing any tendons or tough parts, then cut the meat into pieces. Sauté the finely chopped onion, garlic and rosemary, in 6 tablespoons of oil in a sauté pan. When these begin to soften, add the lamb. Cook over a high heat and after ten minutes add a cup of wine. Allow this to evaporate, then add the tomatoes, salt and pepper. Continue to cook over a low heat for about one hour. Towards the end, add the olives. This dish is usually served on sliced of toasted bread.
Buon Appetito from the Tuscan Mammas!

# 5 Country Estate - Alentejo, Portugal
This beautiful 18th Century rustic country estate possesses a beautiful cobblestone courtyard with a charming fountain, and its own stables with carriage house. The hardwood floors, wood beamed ceilings and antique furnishings create an air of comfort and warmth. Relax on the terrace to admire the stunning views of the countryside. An excellent hideaway in one of Portugal's most beautiful and scenic areas.

# 4 Carmelite Home - Andalucia, Spain
A legendary Carmelite building with 17th Century gardens and fruit trees lies in Granada in the bohemian district of Albacin. It sits just opposite the majestic Alhambra and has a terrace offering lovely views of the surrounding areas. Renaissance style furnishings, and beautiful tilework encompass the flair and tradition of the Spanish countryside. A perfect setting to absorb the delightful culture.

# 3 Poggio Cennina- Tuscany, Italy
Poggio Cennina is a magical place overlooking the stunning panoramas and rolling hills of Val D'Ambra in the Chianti region. The 64 hectare farm of vineyards, olive groves, and fruit orchards, was created on organic principles where nature takes precedence over everything else and the rhythms of nature are respected. The complex comes equipped with a swimming pool, a Turkish bath, tennis court, hiking and biking trails with mountain bike rentals, and even a soccer pitch making it an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The location also makes it ideal for visiting neighbouring towns and cities to take in Tuscany's history and culture.

# 2 L'Oliveraie - Provence, France
A sophisticated typical Provencal farmhouse in a quiet and serene area just 5 minutes from the village of Maillane. Surrounded by 20 acres of olive groves, a beautiful pool and poolhouse, manicured gardens, and exquisite decor and furnishings, this spectacular country estate is sure to please anyone looking for a bit of French country chic and luxury. Indulge in the finery and details and absorb the picturesque surroundings.

# 1 Le Case Del Borgo - Tuscany, Italy
My favourite rental property comes with all the comforts one could ever hope for: breathtaking grounds, sophisticated and elegant styling, traditional Tuscan cottages equipped with flat screen TVs in both living and sleeping areas, gorgeous and comfortable furnishings, private gardens, a superb restaurant and vinarium, an art gallery and a luxurious spa suite! What more could you want? The extremely friendly hosts and staff are very accommodating, ensuring your stay will be as enjoyable and memorable as can be. This is the ultimate getaway for any individual, couple, family or group.