Villa Monticchia is a carefully restored country house that is part of a 1700-acre estate in the Val d'Orcia region of Tuscany. This extraordinarily beautiful stretch of Italy sits between Rome and Florence with open, breathtaking views of Mount Amiata, evoking the unchanged profiles of the hills of old master Tuscan paintings. Monticchia provides maximum comfort in a peaceful, refined and private atmosphere. Larger groups can also rent Villa Aiola, which is part of the same estate.

MAIN VILLA
Enter the villa and you will find a spacious living room and separate dining room, both well-decorated with elegant, eclectic furniture. The rustic, original stone walls were intentionally maintained and are featured throughout the home, evoking an ancient, timeless quality. Rounding out the first level is the fully-equipped eat-in kitchen, with all the modern conveniences. The upper floor's master queen bedroom features hardwood floors, exposed wood-beam ceilings and a beautiful traditional Tuscan fireplace; it also has an en suite bathroom. The two additional bedrooms have been tastefully furnished and share a bathroom. The comfortable and pleasant TV/reading room with a single day bed offers extra space for additional guests.

TOWER
Monticchia offers additional accomodations in a recently restored tower, adjacent to the main villa, for up to four more guests. This 3-level stone tower provides the same level of standard as the main villa. On the ground floor, there is a spacious, eat-in kitchen and living room with a cozy fireplace. The first and second floors are comprised each of one queen bedroom with either a walk-in closet or study area, all with a spacious bathroom with shower or tub.

Villa Monticchia is perfect for enjoying the quiet of the Tuscan countryside, with a private pergola for dining al fresco, an extensive lawn for lounging, well-tended gardens and private woods for tranquil walks or biking. Horseback riding is located nearby. The beautiful private swimming pool with outdoor furniture is a lovely, relaxing place to while away the afternoon and enjoy the view. Enjoy typical local cuisine at Monticchia, prepared by a Tuscan cook.

What to do in the Val d'Orcia area of Tuscany
The Orcia valley lies in the southern part of the province of Siena, between the slopes of Mount Amiata and the hills that descend toward the Chiana valley, between the fortress of Radicofani and that of Montalcino. This area features well-known architectural and artistic sites such as Pienza, Montalcino (famous for its Brunello wine), and the medieval thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni. Perfect for scenic drives, the area is brimming with lovely vista views ranging from the picture-perfect hills and valleys to the clay slopes dotted with cypress trees and white roads that wind away to poderi (farming estates), grain towers and ancient monasteries.

Recommendations:
Don't miss San Casciano Dei Bagni, where you can indulge in a day spa at the new well-being center. Special programs including treatments at the spa can be arranged upon request. The special features of this area were well described by Travel & Leisure: "It was the Etruscans who first discovered the healing properties of the thermal waters in Tuscany's Val d'Orcia. Now the baths built there by the Medici family in the 17th century have been reborn as a luxurious new spa..." (October 2002).

The enchanting town of Cetona will charm you with its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. This enchanting village has grown in popularity as a home for international artists and socialites. Stop for an exquisite lunch or dinner at Osteria Vecchia (so good!)—you won't be disappointed.

Definitely worth a visit are Orvieto, Assisi and Todi. Head to Deruta (80 minutes) to shop for the renowned local ceramics. Last but not least, make sure to check out the chocolate museum in Perugia!