Stylish Villa for 4 on historic Tuscan estate

Accommodation

Though not far from the estate's main square, Emilio sits independently on the edge of a hill overlooking neighboring woodlands. Entry to the house is from its private west-facing side, either through the wide sliding glass doors directly into the open plan main room that cleverly marries a living area with a kitchen/dining space or via a door to the downstairs bedroom with ensuite shower room. A short flight of stairs leads up to a second twin/double bedroom with an ensuite shower room. Furnishing throughout the house feature both charming Tuscan country antiques and elements of modern Italian design, and both shower rooms are dressed with travertine. Also in the house is a laundry room and an extra WC.

Living and dining opportunities continue on the flagstone patio outside, with a table for 6 under a vine-covered pergola and a nearby sitting area with a sofa and armchairs drawn up to the outdoor fireplace backed onto original stonework. From the patio the view is unbroken greenery and a wonderful mix of holm oak, cypress, umbrella pine and the ubiquitous olive.

Local area

Some of the farmhouses and agricultural buildings on the vast Montestigliano estate have been very carefully converted into pleasing, comfortable houses and apartments. Guests on the estate share two swimming pools, one reserved for those who want peace and quiet, the other, further from the houses, for allowing free rein to summer holiday fun. Guests at all the properties may wander at will all over the estate. Part of the lands front the River Merse, which has excellent swimming and is protected for bathers by the Sienese authorities. The tiny village of Torri, with its famous monastery and striped cloisters is two minutes away by car, while there are pizzerie and restaurants within a few minutes' drive. A very important extra here is provided by the charming owners who will unobtrusively keep out of your way or happily go out of their way to help you, providing endless extra services if you require them, from sending faxes, arranging balloon trips, providing touring information, to translating at the doctor's.

During the summer concerts and exhibitions are often organised in the ancient granary, an extraordinary lofty space (14 X 28 m.) spanned by great arches laced with tie bars. This barn is also very suitable as studio space for art courses or conferences, and the rooms below, next to the estate offices, include a games room with billiards, TV, ping pong, a dining room, a catering kitchen and a small gift shop. The little restaurant provides delightful suppers twice a week.

Features