The Gardens:
The gardens and grounds have been professionally landscaped and contain planting typical of Tuscany. Trees include some very old pines and almonds, cypresses, olives, acacias, oaks, figs and lemons in terracotta pots. There are box, lavender and rosemary hedges. The terraces have pergolas covered in vines, wisteria, Chilean bell-flowers and roses climb on the house walls. A wisteria entwined tiled loggia provides a shady retreat and alternative place to dine. The tranquil sound of running water is provided by a fountain.
Situation:
Although private and peaceful, Fontemaggio (the name translates as 'spring that arises in May') is not remote. It is well placed to either luxuriate in the excellent cuisine and wines of the region or take trips to the historical and cultural sites of both Tuscany and Umbria. The timeless hill top village of Lippiano, crowned by the castle that can be viewed from Fontemaggio, may be walked to for breakfast or a drink at the friendly bar. On Sunday evenings, join the locals for Ciaccia, a kind of pizza sandwich.
3km away, the local hilltop walled village of Monterchi, a tiny triangle of medieval perfection, with its intriguing arches and alleyways, is Roman in origin. It is the birthplace of the mother of the famous Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca. His fresco the Madonna del Parto can be seen in the old schoolhouse museum. The landscape that appears in Piero's works is clearly recognisable in the views around Fontemaggio.
You will find the local community in Monterchi welcoming and friendly, particularly at the general store run by Marcello and his family. There is a post office, bars and good restaurants serving local specialties.
There is a market on Sunday mornings and in the summer there are outdoor concerts.
Florence, Siena,San Gimignano, Cortona, Arezzo, Assisi, Perugia, Gubbio are all within easy reach.
Golf:
There is a golf course, 15 minutes away by car.