Val d'Elsa - Siena Villa for Rent: Charming hillside villa set in olive grove with spectacular views - Property 10039

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About the area: In the holm oak and chestnut woods of the Montagnola with its abundance of wild flowers, birds and animals, including wild boar and deer, the expression 'away from it all' says it all. Here, along the kilometres of the unspoilt mountain range that stretches west of Siena to the coast, walking, riding and cycling excursions become adventures to discover the ancient pathways to hamlets, chapels, castles and villas. From here, in every direction places of historic interest such as Siena, San Gimignano and the Abbey of San Galgano are easily reached.

How to get here, getting about and shopping: From the villa, Il Tramonto (The Sunset), the nearest airports are Pisa(1hr 45 mins), Florence(1hr) and Bologna(2hrs). Colle Val D'Elsa (20 mins) is the nearest town for shopping, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and bus services. Poggibonsi (25 mins) and Siena (30 mins) both offer excellent shopping, bus and train services. The nearest villages with bars, restaurants and shops are just 10 minutes away.

What to do: A great way to discover the Montagnola is on horseback, local stables 20 minutes. The hot springs (50 mins) are a must for their healing qualities. There is lovely river swimming just 25 minutes away and a day trip to the coast is definitely worthwhile. Restaurants and local producers of wine, cheese and olive oil are dotted all over the area. The owner, Jackie, designs and makes objects in metal and has a studio/showroom just 5 mins away. She can also arrange visits to the studios of other local artists and craftspeople. Living locally, she is usually available in the event of queries and will be happy to suggest places of interest to visit, depending on guests' preferences.

Guest Book: Unsolicited quotes from guests. “Everything we’d dreamed it would be – peace and quiet, idyllic surroundings and breathtaking views. Watching the sunset from the balcony with a glass of wine; stargazing; awakening to the ‘tinkle’ of the nearby goats bells. The beautiful home ‘held’ us from travelling too far. Who could want for more…..other than a few more days!” “Thank you very much for a fantastic week at Il Tramonto. It’s a wonderful building in a great setting. You are very lucky people to have it, and we count ourselves fortunate to have been able to make use of it. The internal layout of the rooms is excellent – such a sense of space. And dining every evening on the balcony to watch the sun go down was a real treat. With fire-flies in the hedge at no extra cost.” “Villa is stunning and big enough for 7 of us.' '---opening up the bedroom shutters each morning and enjoying the view---'' ' I don't want to go home. This place is stunning. Every room is beautiful.'

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