Located near Siena.   Sleeps 4 guests.   2 bedrooms and 2 baths

This romantic house has a spacious living room with traditional Tuscan fireplace, large eat-in kitchen and a large study with entertainment center.

Private (unfenced) garden and terrace for dining al fresco; portable barbecue available on request; and private, heated swimming pool surrounded by olive groves.

Satellite TV, DSL Internet, private heated swimming pool, DVD, telephone, stereo, hair dryer, dishwasher, washing machine, fax, CD player, window screens, covered private parking.

Ideal for couples or a small family. Unique interior decoration; its style is serene and warm, with white tones and well coordinated high quality fabrics. Terracotta and wood floors. Beamed ceilings.

Villa La Bianca rents from $3,234 - $4,609 per week. Contact us directly for a quote and for information about special offers.

The medieval town of Siena is built across several hills and valleys; that's why you will find yourself walking up and down through the historical center. The lack of car traffic makes it a wonderful place to stroll, especially with kids! Despite sometimes being packed with tourists, the city always has a quiet and easygoing feel. A must-see is the shell-shaped square called Il Campo. This is the focal point of the city and the venue for the internationally renowned horse race, The Palio, which takes place on July 2nd and again on August 16th each year. Don't forget to enjoy a gelato while on the Campo!

Chianti's must see sights are the wine villages of Castellina, Radda and Gaiole. Along the road visit the Badia di Coltibuono and/or Castello di Brolio and do not forget to pick up some wine to enjoy at the villa! Drive through the landscape of the Crete to Buonconvento and to the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore. Many visitors go to the Abbey to visit the great monastic cloisters and to hear the Gregorian chants sung by the monks (Weekdays: 6:15 pm Vespers and conventional Holy Mass. Sundays and Holidays: 11:00 am Solemn Holy Mass and 6:30 pm Vespers and Benedictine Holy Sacraments).

Visit San Gimignano, famous for its skyline, and Volterra, renown for alabaster artifacts. The small fortress cities within easy driving distance of one another, each offer their own special appeal. Colle Val d'Elsa is famous for crystal manufacturing. However, the old town/historical center, Colle Alta, deserves to be seen. Particularly interesting is Palazzo Campana, which looks like a city gate, or a triumphal arch, and dominates the main street of Colle. The Cathedral shows a rich collection of paintings from the XVII century. Spend a full day shopping at the Mall in Montevarchi where many designers have located their outlets – there you'll find Prada, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana and many others.

Restaurants

Siena
Osteria Le Logge Excellent Tuscan cuisine at elegant old-world restaurant. The best tables are on the ground floor, but there is also outdoor seating. Delicious handmade fresh pastas (small portions). Don't miss the desserts! And watch out for the small step down just inside the front door! Closed Sundays. Located just off the Campo on Via del Porrione 33. Reserve a table ( Tel 0577-48013).

Il Mugolone Fine restaurant with contemporary Tuscan cuisine. Gourmet "tasting menu." Open for dinner. Closed Thursdays - Via Pagliaresi 6 (Tel 0577-287-545)

Monte Oliveto Maggiore Abbey
Ristorante La Torre Very nice setting with large outdoor seating. Closed Tuesdays. Make reservations for lunch at the covered terrace when visiting the abbey. (Tel 0577-707-022).

Colle Val d'Elsa
Ristorante Arnolfo Memorable gourmet experience. Considered among the best restaurants in Italy. Located in the enchanting old village of Colle Val d' Elsa. Cost: from $120. Serve lunch and dinner (closed on Tuesday and Wednesday). Reservations are recommended. Via XX Settembre 50, in the center of the upper old town. (Tel 0577-920-549).

Officina della Cucina Popolare This restaurant sits right inside the ancient medieval city walls. Just a two minute walk from the free parking areas nearby the city gate called Porta Nuova. Enjoy true Tuscan food. The menus are seasonal and utilize fresh local ingredients grown by nearby farmers. Via Gracco del Secco 86, 53034 Colle di Val d'Elsa (Tel 0577-921796)