Podere Anteata

We felt very comfortable during our two weeks in the holiday home. It was impeccably maintained and superbly equipped, with friendly owners, complete privacy, and a beautiful view of Tuscany. I highly recommend it. There were three problems, though. The pool wasn't cleaned every two days as promised, so we had to keep checking on it. The road to the house was quite an adventure, and we got stuck several times in the car. Then a severe storm knocked out the Wi-Fi, and we were without internet for the entire two weeks.

This peaceful oasis is a finely restored old farmhouse dating back to 1215. It once served as a border post, with the Republic of Siena to the north and the Vatican's allies to the south. The pool measures 12 x 8 and reaches a depth of 220 cm.

Anteata's main purpose is making extra virgin olive oil at its modern mill, a large facility dedicated to producing a vivid, intense oil using only cold mechanical processes. It's the product of years of experience and careful ecological, artisanal work with the olives, which are hand-picked from century-old trees, some more than 500 years old and a source of pride for Anteata. The farmhouse also offers two apartments, each with a kitchenette, bathroom, veranda, and two bedrooms, with beds for up to eight people. In summer, guests can enjoy the pool and sweeping views of the Val d'Orcia. The wooded area is lovely for walks, with unspoiled nature far from city life. You hear birdsong from countless species, trickling water, tall trees moving in the wind, and little rustles from woodland animals. Deer often appear, seemingly amazed. Reservations are required. Siena is 70 km away, Florence 130 km, and Grosseto and the sea are no more than 60 km away. Art and history lovers can reach the Abbey of Sant'Antimo, the roofless Cathedral of San Galgano, and the nearby Hermitage of Monte Siepi, home to the real Sword in the Stone, in under an hour. Nearby places also include Monteriggioni fortress, the ancient Juris Davidic settlement of Monte Labro, and Montalcino, known around the world for Brunello wine. There are also Banfi castle and estate, the castles of Potentino and Velona, and countless other wonders the world envies us.

A magnificent Tuscan farmhouse with lovely views over the Val d'Orcia and all around, including Mount Amiata. It's surrounded by ancient olive trees, enjoys a healthy climate, and is not far from the town center of Castel del Piano.