The villa
Tucked away in an idyllic Tuscan estate renowned for its DOC Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wine production sits Casa Svetoni. Part of the glorious Val di Chiana, the countryside here is littered with scenic farmhouses and this home is no exception.
With wooden beams, arched ceilings and stone floors, the house boasts stunning original features and maintains much of its character. Blue and yellow walls create a warm and typically-Tuscan feel throughout while French doors allow plenty of light to flood in from outside.
Split into a main house and an independent annexe, Casa Svetoni sleeps up to 9 guests across both buildings, and a 10th guest can be accommodated on a sofa bed. The traditional kitchen with large dining table in the main building is perfect for entertaining in the evenings while the two living rooms with comfy armchairs and open fireplaces offer plenty of space to unwind. A smaller kitchen and living area can also be found in the annexe, which was once used to dry tobacco.
Outside is just as charming, with lush greenery, colourful flowerbeds and nearby lavender fields filling the air with summer scents. Bask in the sunshine as you relax on a deckchair before taking a refreshing dip in the pool or seeking shade under a leafy tree. There’s also a covered seating area as well as a stone table under a vine-covered pergola, ideal for dining al-fresco.
The local village is just 2km away and features a restaurant, bakery and small collection of shops. A little further away is the picturesque town of Montepulciano (approx. 7km), famous for its rare beauty and Vino Noble wine. With winding streets, ancient architecture and a skyline of clock towers, it’s a fantastic place to explore and can be reached by car in 10 minutes.
Montalcino is just approx. 45km away, as is the Renaissance village of Pienza, and both places are well worth a visit. Take a day trip to Siena and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site centre, including the Palazzo Pubblico and the Duomo di Siena. Soak up the lively atmosphere in the main square and climb the many stairs to the top of the Torre del Mangia to admire the 360-degree views of the city, which is just a 45-minute drive away.
Casa Svetoni benefits from a serene location within a beautiful estate in southern Tuscany. Nestled within seventy hectares of undulating countryside, rows of olive groves and cypress trees populate the landscape. Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery by going for walks around the estate, cycling through the vineyards or horseback riding on the nearby Gracciano hills.
The estate’s winery has been in the family for two centuries and tours around its cellars are available for guests. You can purchase some of the celebrated wine, including the renowned Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and other local produce, including the family’s olive oil.
Lying in the vast Val di Chiana, Casa Svetoni is perfectly positioned to discover nearby Roman towns and medieval villages. A restaurant, bakery and shops can be found in the local village which is just a mere 2km from the house along a quiet road.
Picture-perfect Montepulciano can be reached by car in 10 minutes and is one of Tuscany’s most treasured towns. From its hilltop perch you can see for miles across the Val D’Orcia Nature Reserve and Val di Chiana. Marvel at the views as you wander its cobbled streets and marvel at its ancient churches and handsome palazzi.
Pienza is another of the region’s prettiest villages and is just a 25-minute drive away. Known as the ‘Ideal City’, it was transformed from a modest hilltop settlement into the image of the Renaissance with striking architecture in the form of Cattedrale dell’Assunta and Piccolomini Palace.
The Roman village of Bagno Vignoni features a main square submerged in thermal water, which is said to be healing and invigorating. There are several hot spring pools dotted around the centre, which can be reached by car in 45 minutes.
The charming city of Siena is only a 45-minute car journey away and is a great place to wander around, with many attractions including the Palazzo Pubblico and the Duomo di Siena. It’s rich cultural and artistic heritage as well as its beauty have earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site status.