Chiarentana Chianciano Terme

Chiarentana was once a medieval fortress and has been "de-gentrified" over the centuries, becoming one of the main farm buildings on the La Foce property, in the Val d'Orcia. The property was bought by Antonio and Iris Origo (a well known biographer and historian) in the 1920s.

The 6 apartments for rent (for two, four and six people) are named after the peasant families who last lived here. The entire building was recently restored and great care was taken to keep the simple charm of terracotta floors and exposed wooden beams untouched, whilst fitting necessary modern equipment (kitchens and bathrooms mainly). The walls have been washed in a light terracotta shade and the furniture is mainly antique.

The square building surrounds a large, shady courtyard planted with climbing roses, lavender and a deliciously scented linden tree. The arched entrance lets in a cool breeze and leads out to the wide landscaped garden with a pool (mt. 15 x 7) and a tennis court. The view from here is spectacular and surveys the entire valley, dominated by Monte Amiata, Tuscany's highest mountain.

Children are welcome in Chiarentana: at the far end of the garden there is a playground with a swing, see-saw, slide, a trampoline, a tennis court and swimming pool. A dining room and professional kitchen have recently been opened. Gourmet Tuscan meals with home-made pasta, seasonal ingredients from the vegetable garden or the countryside and woods, are prepared on guests' request. Meals are served in the shade of the linden tree in the courtyard, or in the large dining room with a fireplace during the colder months.