Podere Le Monache set on a hillside dominates one of the most picturesque and spectacular landscapes in Tuscany . Originally a convent wrapped in history Le Monache has a magical and mystical atmosphere. Whether you are lazing by the pool or strolling in the olive grove or simply relaxing in your apartment you are in another world. Great care has been taken to restore all of the original features, including vaulted ceilings and beamed ceilings . Meanwhile all the modern conveniences have been incorporated. The property has central heating, air conditioning is not necessary as the house dates back to the 11thC. and the walls are over a meter thick, keeping the house at a comfortable temperature. There is a laundry room with washing machine for the use of the guests. The kitchen is equipped with very good range of stainless steel utensils and place settings. The sitting room is furnished with large sofa, side tables, lamps and Satellite TV. The beds in each of the rooms are comfortable with sprung slat bases and good quality mattresses. Bathrooms are fully tiled with large pedestal wash basins, bidet, wc, large mirrors and enclosed power showers. We are 300m above sea level and in open countryside, in the summer heat we have the sea breeze in the afternoon and evening.The swimming pool is 6mx15m surrounded by a terracotta patio, with sun loungers, tables and large parasols. The gazebo has table and 6 chairs. There area 2 large barbecues on wheels, a wood burning oven for pizza or grilling. The gardens are surrounded by hedges of laurel, bay leaf, and oleanders; one area of the garden has rosemary hedges, shrubs or myrtle and pomogranates, fig trees, mulberry and plums. Herbs are placed around the garden for use of the guests. The middle garden is a formal rose garden with box hedges and terracotta pots. The car park is inside the gates of the property shaded by secular oak trees and young lime trees. Beyond the gardens there is 4.5 hectars of olive grove an woodland. We produce some the best Organic Extra-Virgin Olive Oil in the area. Some of our guests join us during the harvest from picking the olives to taking them to the Olive-press and bringing the oil home! Why Podere le Monache? Le Monache is the Tuscany that many dream of- perfect family vacation destination-- A journey in the past, rolling hills, peaceful, rural, friendly and simple tiny village an excellent location for visiting all the major cultural and historical centres of Tuscany. Podere Le Monache is situated in a small hamlet with all the ameneties you require for a relaxing stress free vacation. We have 2 excellent restaurants walking distance, where you can enjoy a meal and a glass of wine without having to drive. The small shop/deli offers an excellent choise of local products and fresh fruit and dairy. They have a delivery of fresh bread and croissants every morning. One of the restuarants offers cooking classes and wine Tasting. The place to be for art enthusiast, gourmet cuisine and wine enthusiasts!