Magical estate amongst castles and vineyards just south of Florence

Overview: This stunning, private estate is nestled on a natural terrace with spacious main house that unfolds behind a 11th century watchtower. Only steps away is the independent guesthouse, a new saltwater pool, olive grove and gardens. The property sits below the historic Castello di Vicchiomaggio and is surrounded by its famed vineyards. From the time of your booking, you will be assisted by Federica, the house manager and concierge, who will help with itineraries and in-house extra services including private chef, extra cleaning, cooking lessons, masseur and tours. She is easily reached to support you during your stay. Conveniently reachable by car, you drive through the Castle's vineyards, arriving at a gated drive lined with cypress trees. On the right is the magical guesthouse with soaring spaces, 15' arched, thermal window and breathtaking views. Both houses have indoor/outdoor living with three shaded terraces. Stone paths lead to the swimming pool area. All bedrooms have individual AC units and screened windows. The first floor is kept temperate due to the thick stone walls. Main house On the first floor, the living areas open onto two beautifully furnished terraces. The furnishings are 17c to 18c Italian walnut, with original museum-quality paintings throughout. The kitchen is the focal point with its large, working hearth, dining table that seats 12, original Italian walnut 17th century cupboard and modern work area. Behind the kitchen is a fully stocked pantry with every convenience and a full bath/laundry room. Stairs lead to the second floor smaller living area, with a sofabed, desk equipped with printer and smart TV. This area opens onto the pool, the tower bedroom suite and the main bedroom wing where four bedrooms are served by two full bathrooms plus the nearby tower bathroom. This is a lovely quiet place to read, do yoga or work at the computer. Each bedroom is appointed with good hanging space, custom linen duvets, screened windows, AC units and new mattresses. Guest house The fully independent and newly renovated guesthouse is beautifully landscaped with lavender and other aromatic plants. The first floor includes a dining area, living room with double sofa bed, working fireplace, fully equipped kitchen and pantry. The air-conditioned bedroom is located on the upper floor with en suite bathroom and walk-in closet. The 15' window frames the cypresses. The bedroom looks onto the olive grove. Its an architectural jewel. Pool: The 33' x 13' saltwater pool sits under the olive grove with postcard views of Castello di Vicchiomaggio and amongst scented gardens of jasmine, lavender, roses, rosemary, bay and fruit tress. A veranda and three large umbrellas provide shade as do the chaise longues with individual sun umbrellas to shade the face. The property is private, comprising 9 acres that includes the gardens, large olive grove and surrounding oak forest. It sits amongst historic wine estates including the Rennaisance Castello di Vicchiomaggio, Castello di Verazzano and Villa Calcinaia. It is conveniently located to the charming town of Greve, with its lively piazza, Saturday market, world famous butchers and every convenience (restaurants, salons, pharmacy, bike rentals). Also nearby are the hilltop towns of Panzano -with its Sunday market- Impruneta -world-famous for its terracotta and the Ugolino golf course- San Gimignano, Castellina in Chianti, Radda and the beautiful Abbey of Passignano. Siena, with her art treasures and celebrated "Palio" horse race, is a short drive away. Florence is a scenic 30" drive with easily accessible parking along the ancient historic wall at Porta Romana. From there, it is a 5-10" walk to Florence "centro" and the "oltr'arno" (beyond the Arno neighborhood) and, also, a convenient taxi stand is located adjacent to the parking area.