Cardinale

This historic grand mansion is set among a wine and olive oil producing estate, located 40 minutes south of the medieval town of Siena. In the past, the villa was used as the country residence of several aristocratic Italian dynasties. It took two years for his current owner to painstakingly renovate the property, and finally bring it back to its former splendor, adding all the modern amenities. The imposing villa, with its elegant cypress-lined boulevard, offers an abundance of luxury: four floors of elegant refined interiors, tennis court, private wellness Spa with sauna, and private gym. When you combine the beauty of the land, the villa attentive staff and the unique characteristics of Il Cardinale, your vacation is sure to be memorable.

The spacious social spaces, like the rest of the villa, are elegantly furnished with original paintings, luxury fabrics, hand-crafted antiques and family heirlooms. They feature original floor tiles, as well as architectural details such as stone fireplaces and painted walls soaring to high ceilings. The spaces exude the effortless elegance of the patrician Tuscan country look. On this floor, the entrance hall with beautiful coffered ceiling, grand piano and seating arrangements spread out the expansive room, formal dining room that seats up to 22 people, adjacent fully equipped Tuscan-style kitchen, smaller drawing room with comfortable red velvet seating area, guest bathroom.

Immerse yourself into the green beauty of the Tuscan countryside. Manicured landscape surrounds Il Cardinale and protects the guests’ privacy from indiscreet eyes. Set in one of the villa lawns, the swimming pool is a refreshing spot where to spend some time during the sunny hours. The more active guests can enjoy friendly games at the private tennis court or endure some workout sessions in the equipped gym. In the villa courtyard, a large patio is set up with large umbrellas for alfresco dining. The vegetable garden in summer offers organic vegetables ready to be picked and enjoyed!

Nearest Airport: Florence Peretola 1 h 30 min

Nearest serviced town: 6 min

Nearest major city: Siena 40 min

Driving time estimated by Google Maps

The medieval town of Siena is built across several hills and valleys; that's why you will find yourself walking up and down through its historical center. The lack of car traffic makes Siena 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 perfect setting to snap your Instagram photos while enjoying an over-sized gelato. This is also the venue of the internationally renowned horse race, The Palio, which takes place on July 2nd and again on August 16th each year.

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. The medieval walled city of Monteriggioni – for example – was built in the 13th century and it is known to be one of the most well preserved ancient fortifications in Italy, which is why it is a preferred destination for plenty of tourists, scholars, architects and archeologists from all over Europe.

Visit the famous town of Montalcino, best-known for the distinguished Brunello red wine, and the artistic jewel town of Pienza, which was used as a backdrop to Franco Zeffirelli’s masterpiece: “Romeo and Juliet”. The walled hilltop medieval town of Montepulciano, the picturesque Cetona, the charming thermal villages of San Casciano dei Bagni and Bagno Vignoni are also well worth a visit.

WHERE TO EAT

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! Watch out for the small step down as you walk in!

Via del Porrione 33, Siena - +39 0577 480 13

Enoteca I Terzi - casual atmosphere under a vaulted ceiling, market to table seasonal ingredients divinely cooked, extensive selection of wine.

Via dei Termini, Siena - +39 0577 44329

Il colombaio - Michelin starred restaurant (in 2016!) in a very traditional sophisticated atmosphere. Outdoor seating also available.

Localita Colombaio, Casole d'Elsa - +39 0577 949002

Villa Dievole great restaurant with excellent food, set in a wine and extra virgin olive estate. Not only you can buy wine and olive oil produced on the estate, they can even ship it internationally.

Località Dievole, 6 (fraz. Vagliagli) Castelnuovo Berardenga - +39 0577 322613

Officina della Cucina Popolare This restaurant sits right inside the ancient medieval city walls of Colle di Val d'Elsa. Just a two minute walk from the free parking areas nearby the city gate called Porta Nuova. The menus are seasonal and utilize fresh local ingredients grown by nearby farmers. Enjoy true Tuscan food.

Via Gracco del Secco 86, Colle di Val d'Elsa - +39 0577 921 796

Boccon divino - Great local food and stunning view from the terrace. If you come with a large group, you may want to try the very reasonable priced tasting menu for the table.

Via Traversa dei Monti 201, Montalcino - +39 0577 848 233

Latte di Luna - Rustic trattoria serving excellent local cuisine, homemade pasta and meats. Popular with the locals for the roasted pig. In summer, outdoor seating in the piazza is available.

Via San Carlo 2-4, Pienza - +39 0578 748 606

WHERE TO SHOP

Handmade Crystal: Collevilca – besides purchasing their products, take a factory tour available from Monday to Friday and watch the artisans hand-blowing their creations.

Loc. San Marziale, 24, Colle di Val D’Elsa – +39 0577 927 204

Alabaster Houseware: Alab’Arte, an artisanal bottega where one-of-a-kind pieces are created.

Via degli Orti di San Agostino, Volterra - +39 0588 879 68

The best gelato: Gelateria di Piazza in San Gimignano it’s one of the most famous ice cream shops in all of Italy. Award-winning master ice cream maker Sergio Dondoli uses seasonal ingredients to create some unusual flavors.

Piazza Della Cisterna 4, San Gimignano - +39 0577 942244

Specialty Food shop: Pizzicheria de Miccoli - Located in Siena historic center, it is very well known for its special selection of Tuscan cured meats.

Via di Citta 95, Siena - +39 0577 246948