Tuscany is, as yet, a largely undeveloped centre for golf holiday enthusiasts, but offers a number of visually stunning and challenging courses. Most of these are within an hour’s drive of the properties, while the nearest, Castelfalfi Golf and Country Club, is just 15 minutes drive away and presents a tough, but fascinating test. In contrast to many better-known venues, most golf courses in Tuscany are not overplayed and are readily accessible to both the casual visitor and organised tour parties.

The location of San Martino means that you are in the ideal location to experience seven of the best courses in Tuscany.

Castelfalfi (Montaione, www.castelfalfi.it, 18 holes, 5869m, par 73)

Just 15 minutes from San Martino, stunningly set against the back drop of the imposing village jutting out from the hillside above. This is a tough test of golf. We defy you to play to your handicap even after several rounds. This is a visually spectacular course, featuring woodland, olive groves, streams and subtly located water hazards and abundant wildlife, with immaculate, but very tricky domed greens and undulating fairways. A challenge to even the most consistent low-handicapper, Castelfalfi is a delight, with holes that will leave you grateful to make the occasional par.

Poggio dei Medici (nr. Scarperia, Florence, www.poggiodeimedici.it, 18 holes, 6220m, par 72)

North of Florence about an hour and a quarter distant, but infinitely well worth the drive just to play on an immaculately groomed course, which currently hosts the Italian Ladies open. Rolling, manicured fairways and exceptional greens provide a difficult but exceptionally fair test. Play well and you will score well on a course that is guaranteed to remain a memorable golfing experience. Set a day aside, finish the round and dine in the fabulous villa restaurant.

La Pavoniere (Prato, 20km from Florence, www.golfclublepavoniere.com, 18 holes, 6137m, par 72)

Stylish, immaculate Arnold Palmer designed course with well-positioned water hazards a consistent feature and easy walking for golfers who prefer not to resort to buggies. A long and challenging test off the back tees, but a fair one to low and high handicappers alike. Superb clubhouse and professional shop with renowned catering facilities.

Ugolino (Grassina, 25km from Florence, 18 holes, 5676m, par 72)

The oldest course in Italy, where it all started and where Bernhard Langer won the Italian Open in the 1980’s. Ugolino is beautifully kept and manicured with excellent clubhouse facilities. Book your tee times and play during the week as it’s busy with members at weekends. Fabulously Italian.

Punta Ala (Near Piombino, www.puntaala.net/golf, 18 holes, 6168 meters, Par 72 )

By the sea and set amongst pine tree-lined fairways, with spectacular views of the Mediterranean and the distant island of Elba from several elevated tees. The course is tight and accurate play is needed but it is a visual delight, especially in Spring and the view from the terrace of a comfortable well-appointed clubhouse is unrivalled. The furthest drive, but well worth the trip. Non-golfers and golfers alike will enjoy the lovely coast and beaches along with sampling one of the many fish restaurants along the Maremma coastline. Can’t think of a more perfect day.

Montecatini (Monsummano Terme, between. Florence & Pisa, www.montecatinigolf.com, 18 holes, 5857, par 72)

Montecatini Terme, once a regular haunt of film stars and high society is famous for its healthy spa waters. But combine this with a visit to the tough, tight golf course hidden away just south of the town and some amazing views as you look out over the valley and you have the ultimate day’s entertainment. Excellent club facilities include a lovely restaurant and terraces overlooking the course.

Versilia (Pietrasanta, 25 mins from Pisa airport, www.versiliagolf.com, 18 holes)

Just a short drive north-west of Pisa and Lucca towards the Ligurian coast, Versilia is a very pleasant, easy walking course with plenty of water hazards and not as demanding to the average golfer as some of the above courses, but it is still an engrossing challenge and visitors can enjoy a relaxing day’s sport and a warm friendly welcome.

If you would like a fuller description of the courses including the holes to watch, please contact us and we will email you details. We can also arrange for transport to and from the courses. This must be arranged direct with our villa managers on libbytugwell@hotmail.com. Transport is subject to availability so must be booked in advance, and costs must be settled on site