Wisteria-covered pergola and courtyard for breakfast in the shade. The house is surrounded by garden, with endless corners to sit, snooze or read. Yet another “outside room” a converted barn complete with chandelier, has steps leading down to a formal area surrounded by lawns and a particularly large (fenced) pool, from which there are views to die for.
A hugely elegant sitting room running the full width of the house provides a fabulous entertaining area, the centrepiece being a huge working fireplace surrounded by deeply comfortable white sofas, an ecclectic mix of artefacts and paintings, and a massive tapestry on the wall. From here, one enters a very large kitchen and dining area.
A Housemanager will greet you and help you to settle in. A Housekeeper works from 8.30am to 2.30pm 6 days a week. A chef is included for dinner 6 evenings a week she comes for 4 hours and will lay the table beforehand, cook and clear up the kitchen. The housekeeper will lay and prepare a continental breakfast everyday. She will make the beds and clean the house. Sheets are changed on Saturdays. A gardener/pool man will take care of the outside spaces.
The divine bedrooms are decorated and furnished in the owners distinctive style, understatedly grand, with the master bedroom suite being particularly comfortable. The ground floor is home to 1 Twin Bedroom, whilst the first floor accommodates the Master Double Bedroom, 2 Doubles, and 2 Twins (one of which is more suited to children).
There are 5 bathrooms in total, 3 of which are ensuite.
Annabel is a great fan of the interior designer owner Camilla Guinness and loves her relaxed but chic style.
The Siena market, held on Wednesday mornings at the Fortezza, is a bustling affair. Offering a vast array of items including clothes, shoes, plants, ceramics, and more, it's a vibrant experience for visitors.
The Palio di Siena is a horse race that is held twice each year, on 2 July and 16 August, in Siena, Italy. Ten horses and riders, bareback and dressed in the appropriate colours, represent ten of the seventeen contrade.
Montalcino, the heart of Brunello wine, beckons with its enchanting charm. Within the fortified walls of the Fortezza, visitors can stroll along the battlements and indulge in wine tastings at the excellent enoteca. Beyond the Fortezza, the town offers delightful avenues for leisurely exploration, with numerous wine shops showcasing baskets and Tuscan products. As a dazzling hilltop town, Montalcino affords panoramic views that captivate the senses. While restaurant recommendations within the town are scarce, Boccon di Vino, just outside Montalcino, stands out as an upscale dining option with its remarkable view.
Pienza, an Early Renaissance gem, exudes unparalleled beauty, with its highlights including the magnificent cathedral and the Palazzo Piccolomini. Additionally, Bandita Townhouse stands out as an excellent dining establishment, offering superb culinary experiences amidst this charming town's historic ambiance.
Murlo, located very close to the house, boasts an excellent Etruscan Museum. Operating hours are from 10 AM to 1 PM and 3 PM to 7 PM, with extended hours from 9 PM to 11 PM in July and August. Closed on Mondays, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Etruscan civilization. Additionally, nearby, there's a charming tiny restaurant that offers delightful meals with picturesque views.
San Quirico is a quiet and quaint town adorned with a Romanesque church, formal gardens, and the elegant Palazzo Chigi.
Venturing further afield, visitors can explore the Prada outlet shop known as Space, situated in Montevarchi, Province of Arezzo. Open from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM every day, this outlet offers an extensive range of Prada products. Additionally, there is a good café on-site.
There are hot springs and a spa at Bagno Vignoni (20 mins). Alternatively, we can bring the spa to you: We recommend Elena, a brilliant Ayuvedic Masseuse. A 1hr massage is E50 and should be booked in advance if possible.
