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Our families were traveling in Tuscany in the spring of 2000 and fell in love with the 18th century estate we had chosen as home base for our two-week stay. The property is Montestigliano, a 2,500 acre working olive farm with a complex of comfortably restored 18th century houses and farm buildings, all commanding magnificent views of the Sienese landscape. The farm is situated in a lush, tranquil area of Tuscany southwest of Siena and within easy driving distance of Florence, San Gimigiano and the Montalcino and Chianti wine region. The property is a visual wonder with its terra cotta buildings and courtyards covered with cascading roses and wild geraniums. There are two pools, cypress lined walking and hiking trails, bathing in the clear waters of the River Merse, and bocce courts among the terraced fields of olive trees. Our stay at Montestigliano was so wonderful that we wanted to share the experience with others. We are working with the farms guest manager Susan Pennington to bring the Tuscan experience to others. Susan is British, but has called Italy home for many years. Her vast knowledge of the Tuscan countryside and the best of what it can offer is outstanding. She has a great appeal to artisans or foodies in any group, organizing everything from cooking classes, to ceramic lessons in nearby villages, to vineyard tours. We can help you arrange a holiday where you settle into the estate and enjoy the beauty of Tuscany at your leisure, or we can help you customize your own vacation. You could spend a week discovering the gastronomic delights of the region visiting markets, vineyards and cooking with local chefs. Sampling fabulous Tuscan wines, oils, and cheeses. Anytime of the year can be beautiful in Italy, but you may want to consider the late fall or early spring which can bring beautiful, crisp weather with low crowds to discover Tuscan life at its best. The fall offers many festivals such as the renowned seasonal truffle festival and of course the olive harvest.
Montestigliano is an ideal facility for your business, organization or club conference or workshop. The close-knit complex can easily manage programs from 10 to 50 participants. Our experience along with Susan’s relationships with Tuscan craft and culinary experts can provide a memorable experience. The farm is also the perfect setting for a wedding or any other special party. I look forward to discussing the possibilities of working together with you to explore the best of Tuscany through Tuscany by Design. Ciao, Jill Hurcomb Byrlev Montestigliano... Something For Everyone Under The Tuscan Sun
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The property at Montestigliano offers what Italians refer to as agriturismo. Agriturismo is the Italian word for a guest stay at a working farm, or fattoria; the English call it a farm holiday. Accommodations are fully furnished houses rented usually for a minimum of a week. A farm stay is similar to renting a cabin, condo or country place. Visitors provide their own groceries and sundries. Kitchens are well equipped and if you wish, a cook can be provided. We advise that you plan ahead in organizing your vacation because some of the houses tend to fill 9-12 months in advance.