The ample living space on the ground floor contains cooking area, dining area seating up to 10, double sofa bed. The bathroom is also on the ground floor. The upstairs bedroom has air-conditioning and a view over the hilltop town of Montefollonico. The living area opens onto the patio with pergola which overlooks the garden area, ancient oak tree and surrounding vineyards.
NB: this apartment is separated from the studio flat by a sound-proof communicating door which can be unlocked in the case of both apartments being rented together.
This beautifully renovated farm annexe is opposite the owner's family home and surrounded by hills and vineyards. Enjoy being immersed in the Tuscan countryside while only a five minutes' drive from the hilltop town of Montepulciano and the village of Montefollonico. You can relax in the garden, discover the specialities of the region, visit local wineries where tastings are possible, and absorb ancient culture. There are several thermal resorts with hot springs and lovely Lake Trasimeno is a 30 minute drive away. When it is not so hot you can enjoy the marvellous countryside on foot or by bicycle. You can experience everything the area offers - from local markets to artistic treasures, prehistoric sites and last but not least the best places to sample typical local cooking, with the wonderful wines which make this region famous.
the property and what is offered: The apartments have been beautifully restored while retaining original Tuscan features, with care taken over detail. They have been furnished with the maximum attention to comfort and each has its own independent entrance. The two-room apartment has a private garden area with a pergola and the studio flat a small patio. Thermal insulation is so efficient that you will find heating/air-conditioning costs very reasonable.
There is an above ground swimming pool, 5.5 metres diameter and about 1.2 meters deep,suitable for children but adults can enjoy it as well! NB: the pool is in use from June 15 - September 15 weather permitting.
. Transport: A car is advisable especially with children but it is possible to do without, and car hire by the day is available locally. Train travel is cheap and easy from Rome and Pisa international airports and lifts to and from the train station, as well as into town, can be arranged.
Further activities:
Apart from the artistic and historical treasures to be discovered, there are local festivities and events in every little town. To mention just a few, the donkey race in Torrita di Siena is accompanied by processions in medieval dress and an impressive flag waving performance, and the yearly barrel pushing contest up the streets of Montepulciano in August is immensely popular. At the internationally acclaimed Teatro Povero di Monticchiello where residents take part in an open-air theatre in the summer , local cooking can be sampled in the evenings in the crypt of the church. Last but not least the wonderful countryside and picturesque streets of the little towns make this a walker's paradise.
The English-born owner has lived in the area for 26 years and in Italy for most of her life and will help you with anything you need to make your stay enjoyable and memorable. There are also cooking schools in the area, please contact the owner to book lessons in advance. Other activities include truffle hunting with a local expert , wine-tasting, hot springs either in the woods or go to a fully equipped swimming pool, rental of electric bikes.
Pets are considered - please ask!