Montauto Chianciano Terme

Montauto is one of the old farmhouses situated on the 450 hectare La Foce estate in Tuscany's Orcia Valley. Set amidst a patchwork of fields and centuries-old woodland, the farmhouse offers stunning views of the countryside and Castelluccio, a medieval castle also located within the estate boundaries.

The farmhouse was built according to the age-old Tuscan architectural traditions: around a central courtyard, with stables and storage rooms on the ground floor and living quarters above. The stables and storage rooms have now been converted in to a large, open-plan kitchen and dining room, and two bedrooms, leading directly on to the courtyard which, adorned with urns filled with sweet scented rosemary and lavender bushes, provides a delightful open air dining venue.

Originally the country residence of Benedetta Origo, the lady responsible for the extensive restoration work carried out on the farmhouse, Montauto still has the feel of a family home. In rooms characterized by ancient stone fireplaces and terracotta floors, one finds a number of family portraits, a host of well-thumbed books, and a fascinating collection of local pottery.

A large swimming pool is located on a terrace just below the house, from where to admire a wonderful view over the countryside of Val d'Orcia. From Montauto, there are numerous walking routes through the La Foce estate.