The house is situated on a hill near vallombrosa forest. There are numerous foot paths through the mountains, and there is a wealth of local flora and fauna. All around are typical Tuscan views, with all the characteristics of the area: cypress trees, olive groves and old buildings scattered amongst vineyards. The area is renowned in this part of Italy for the freshness of the air, and the local olive oil is generally held to be amongst the finest in the world. Nearby Tosi is a typical Tuscan village. There are several other fascinating small villages and towns nearby, many offering excellent walks, beautiful old churches and other ancient buildings and places of interest. Vallombrosa, a particularly famous beauty spot up in the mountains, is only a few kilometres away. Westwards lies the river Arno and the Chianti hills, producing the splendid wines of the same name. Often considered one of the most beautiful regions in Europe, Chianti is a mixture of breathtaking views and charming, intimate villages. Slightly further afield, the cities of Florence, Siena and Arezzo offer a great variety of things to do and see. Medieval and Renaissance art and architecture is everywhere, there are theatres (some in the open-air), Roman and Etruscan ruins, shops and markets of every kind, as well as swimming baths, sports events and much more. Past visitors to the house have left numerous suggestions and personal recommendations of places to visit and things to do. LOCAL AMENITIES: The village of Tosi has plenty of traditional shops for most basic necessities, as well as grocer’s, a chemist, a bank and a restaurants. Restaurants: There are several very good restaurants locally. Swimming: there is a beautiful large open-air public swimming pool in Pontassieve.