Good idea or bad? I'd love to rent a farmhouse or villa - any suggestions for a small one in a great area? Will there be people around and what to do that time of year?

I have only been to Tuscany in August once, I am afraid not as enjoyable as the visits in other seasons: it was too hot for walking around, some hills were parched brown, many towns were jammed with tour buses, long queue at museums and many locals off to beaches.

Perhaps it would be enjoyable if you could find a villa with swimming pool.