Galante and Galantino are two recently restored, side by side townhouse apartments in the historic center of medieval Montefollonico. Dating to the 11th century, the town's name comes from the fullonico, a settlement of Cassinesi monks who used a nearby stream for follatura or the dying of wool.

Each unit has its own barbecue and a furnished garden with views and dreamy sunsets over two of Tuscany's prettiest valleys: the Val d'Orcia to the south and the Val di Chiana to the north. For those renting both units together, a gate joins the two garden oases.

Galantino on the lower ground floor is buttressed by thick stone walls that keep it cool in the summer. It's easy to understand why this was used as a wine cellar in medieval times. Scattered steps made of the original stone are found throughout and connect adjoining rooms. A laundry room with a washer is shared, and Wi-Fi access is available for those with a laptop. Cleaning service and meals may be requested when booking.

The owner is an accomplished artist who converted a 12th-century, Romanesque church into an impressive ceramic studio. Once a week, during the summer and fall, she hosts our Wine Country Ceramics Actividayz - a workshop on decorating ceramics. Interested guests may inquire about visits to nearby thermal baths at a reduced rate.

Like the rest of the town, steep stone steps and cobblestone streets have survived the centuries. Stroll to a restaurant or two, practically outside the door, and meet the locals. Laughter and chatter are customary in Italy so don't be surprised to hear these during your stay.

Within 100 yards are two restaurants, a small grocery store, a butcher, a wine shop, the post office and a bank. A car is needed to reach this spot and to get around. Parking is found outside the town walls, 200 yards away. Smaller cars may drive along the narrow lane and up to the entrance to drop off luggage.

A 15 minute drive leads to more shops and a supermarket in Montepulciano. In even less time lies Pienza, the capital of pecorino cheese. Bagno Vignoni, with thermal baths, is a 30 minute drive; Chiusi with express trains to Florence or Rome: 35; Montalcino or Cortona: 40; Arezzo: 50; Siena, Perugia or Orvieto: 60; Florence: 90; Rome: 120.

A tourist tax collected by the town is paid separately on the first four nights. Children under age 12 are exempt.

Technical Description
Ground floor: Four steps down into living room with TV and CD player. Eight steps into eat-in kitchen with stove top, oven, fridge, dishwasher and door with four steps up to furnished garden. One bedroom with a queen size bed. One bathroom with tub and shower.