VILLA www.chicktrips.net/villa.htm

A ogni uccello il suo nido e bello. (To every bird, his nest is beautiful.) ---Italian Proverb



		The Villa Magic happens here. Located near the ancient village of Montisi in Southern Tuscany, ivy and roses scramble up the massive brick walls to the terracotta roof-tiles of this country farmhouse. Old wooden doors and shuttered windows draw you in with the cool Tuscan breeze. Years ago farm animals found their shelter through these doors and gathered together for warmth in the same room we now gather for friendship and food. The worn steps of the stone staircase lead you up to the rooms where the peasant family lived, kept warm from the heat of the animals below. This restored house has been the vacation home of a family from England for 30 years. It is only available to others privately through friends. The rooms are very spacious and rambling with lots of nooks and crannies. The furnishings today are simple and comfortable, the shelves are filled with beautiful books, and the kitchen is stocked with good food and great local wine. There are five bedrooms and three large baths, ample room for 11 people. Outside there's a covered loggia dining area with murals painted on the walls, as well as other tables and chairs by the swimming pool and under the pergola. An herb garden grows lavender for your pillow, rosemary and basil for your favorite Italian meal. The grounds are full of olive trees, roses, geraniums, yellow broom, poppies - an Italian villa with an English garden! Down a little path is the guesthouse where John and I stay. The views overlook the rolling quilt of vineyards, olive trees, distant hilltowns and mountains. Montisi, a very untouristy village, is a short walk away - about 3/4 mile. This area called the Crete Senesi (clay hills) looks totally landscaped, and to me is the most beautiful region of Tuscany. Montepulciano, Montalcino, Pienza, Siena and other fascinating towns are a short drive away. Everywhere you look there is inspiration for creativity and relaxation - whether it's painting, writing, photography, reading, hiking, cycling, or just hanging out by the pool. No stress. No schedule but the one you make for yourself. This is the setting for your week.

The Villa