We are renting a large villa (sleeps 22) in Suvignano, Monteroni D'Arbia for 3 weeks in July, Villa il Tinaio (Villa D'Arbia). Does anyone have information on the small towns nearby or the villa itself? We have travelled to Italy a few times before but stayed in the major cities. We hope to experience the true Tuscan life.

jeannez,
You are only about 5 minutes from Murlo but if there are 22 of you do not all go at once, you will overload the small fortress. Within 30 to 45 minute you can be in Siena, Pienza, Montepulciano, Bagno Vignoni, Sant Antimo, Monte Oliveto Maggiore, Buonconvento. The area is picture perfect and the food and wine is superb. Feel free to e-mail for more information.

perfect location--you will love the area. Do not miss the Abbey at Oliveto Maggiore. Do you have room for me?

There are clay and hard surface tennis courts in Monteroni D'Arbia, in case any of your group enjoys tennis. Two summers back, a women's tennis tournament was held at those courts.
A small town, Ville di Corsano, boasts two very good restaurants. I don't recall their names. One is located at the center of the main street; the other is on the grounds of a large villa, a short drive out of town on that same main street. Murlo also has at least two very fine restaurants.
Carol L

Thank you for the suggestions and any additional information will be much appreciated.
Anyone traveling that region July 9-30?

GOOD EATS IN TOSCANA !


I have never been labeled as “ BOB THE GOURMET”. However, here are some of the best places to eat in Tuscany based on feedback from my clients and others. Reservations are suggested for most:
* inexpensive ** moderate *** expensive


FLORENCE: Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco ** Borgo S. Jacopo 43

SIENA: Osteria le Logge ** Just off the Campo—great for lunch
Cane e Gato *** A fixed menu feast—must reserve !

LUCCA: Buca di San Antonio ** Near San Michele—very pleasant
Il Giglio ** Piazza del Giglio—a favorite with locals

COLLE VAL D’ ELSA: Arnolfo *** Excellent gourmet cuisine

SAN GIMIGNANO: Le Vecchie Mura * Good Tuscan fare—not fancy

MONTERIGGIONI: Il Pozzo ** Rustic taverna in ancient fortress

CASTELLINA : Al Gallopapa** Varied menu in heart of Chianti

MONTEFOLLINICO: La Chiusa *** Creative Tuscan cuisine

MONTEPULCIANO: La Grotta ** Excellent—near San Biagio Church
Osteria Acquacheta* In the village—for lunch

PIENZA: Latte du Luna ** Best choice in this lovely village

SAN QUIRICO: Trattoria al Vecchio Forno * Authentic Tuscan fare

MONTALCINO: Boccon di Vino** Excellent—fixed menu at lunch
Grappolo Blu * You will find the locals here

PITIGLIANO: Osteria Il Tufo Allegro * A treat in this ancient village