Essential Italy

An atmosphere of relaxation and nature presides over this rustic cottage. The owners have taken nearly 10 years to turn this old farmer’s dwelling into a truly wonderful haven. It is rare to find one bedroomed villas in Tuscany and when one is of this quality and in this position, it becomes very precious.

At the end of a short unmade track and looking down on the valley, Casetta al Castello is 3 kms from Roccastrada – a hill village with all modern conveniences and yet a pace of life long gone in most areas of Europe. From Roccastrada the road winds down to the best of the Tuscan coast (Castiglion della Pescaia and Punt Ala approx 30 mins) and across to Siena (30 mins). Within easy striking distance are other attractions such as the much underrated Massa Marritima, Montalcino, the breathtaking Monti Dell'Ucellina Nature Reserve and San Galgano. Approximately 12kms away is the opportunity for wonderful river swimming in the River Farma, reputedly the cleanest river in Italy. This region is also great walking country.

‘This was our first holiday in Italy, and our first experience of Essential Italy – we’re sure neither will be our last!’

Steve and Diane Ewing, Shrewsbury, UK

Having arrived at Casetta al Castello, it will be difficult to drag oneself away. On the ground floor a sitting area with log fire leads to the kitchen complete with original stone sink. A narrow stone staircase leads up to the bedroom and shower room. From the bedroom a spacious terrace opens out onto the view (Monte Amiata in the distance). Surrounding the house is a beautiful garden, complete with a small wood of cork trees, the ruins of a castle, an olive grove and an allotment from where you can help yourselves to whatever is in season (the friendly owner pops in to water the plants and keep the garden tidy – contact can be as much or as little as you wish). The ground floor terrace holds a huge BBQ and dining table – the ideal place to watch the flickering evening lights across the valley and to sample the local wine (DOC Montereggio and DOC Montecucco).