A dirt road leads through vineyards and olive groves to this ancient monastery. Already built in the Medieval period, it evolved into a country house some centuries later. In the year 2006, the estate has been totally restored. Casa Mercatale is located not far from florence in the heart of the Chianti region. Here one can find privacy and tranquility. Because of its position on the hillside, the house offers a fascinating view over olive groves and vineyards. The main house is flagged with terracotta tiles and is suitable for 10 persons. At the ground floor there is a double bedroom with air fans and a shower/WC ensuite. The whole first floor is airconditioned. Here one can find the masterbedroom, two double bedrooms and one twin bedroom. Every bedroom has a bathroom ensuite. The masterbedroom has a large bathroom with jacuzzitub.

The fenced property is about 10.000 qm and contains a pool and a jacuzzi. At the pool terrace there are wooden deck chairs and sunshades. Next to the pool terrace there is a changing room with a shower/WC. A stone patio with a BBQ provides shadow for outdoor dining at a table for 12 persons. The air conditioned dependance is only a few meters from the main house. It can accomodate 2 persons. It is only rented on request. The lawn is bordered with rose bushes and olive trees. Casa Mercatale is perfect for large families or groups. By car Siena is reachable in about 50 minutes, Lucca ist approximately one hour away. In Mercatale Val di Pesa, which is 5 minutes away, there are shopping facilities and restaurants. Parking space is available at the property. The house is not suitable for people with walking difficulties.

At a glance:
baby bed/cot: € 100/stay - Babysitter: on request - CD-Player - DVD-Player - bicycles: 4 - hair dryer - dishwasher - BBQ - pets: NOT allowed - Hochstuhl: 2 - internet - fireplace: 4 - highchair: 2 - air condition: in 4 bedrooms - microwave - private pool: 15 x 7,5 m, opening from May 8 to Sept. - SAT/cable-TV - washing machine - tumble dryer

Tuscany is probably the most famous region in Italy. The characteristic hills and cypress alleys have already been layed out and cultivated by the Etruscans and Romans. The special zest of Tuscan landscape, however, is it's versatility. The Apennine Mountains, overgrown with chestnut trees, make up an interesting contrast to the gentle rolling hills between Florence and Sienna that are typical for Tuscany. The numerous small, partly Etruscan villages that are enthroned on the hilltops, are quite impressive. The travel season lasts the whole year, and each season has it's own special colours and atmosphere. Visitors interested in culture will find many art treasures in cities like Florence, Pisa or Sienna, which have made Tuscany one of the most famous cultural centres in the world. And finally, thinking of the delicious Tuscan cuisine and the world-known wines, the only question is when to go on the next journey to Tuscany.

Getting there: Flight to Florence or Pisa, rental car