During the day, the views from this heavenly, hill top perch span across endless miles of magnificent Chianti Classico landscapes. On clear summer nights, when stars roam the Tuscan sky, the sparkle from Stella del Chianti is easily mistaken for a new constellation.

Stella del Chianti is found on an olive growing estate between Florence and Siena with postcard perfect vistas. It is one of three separate 15th-century, stone farmhouses all owned by the same family. Each home faces its own direction and has its own private furnished patio and spacious garden. The remaining two homes are occupied by the owners as vacation getaways - escapes from the bustle of Italian city life to the tranquil Tuscan countryside. When in residence, the estate's matriarch occupies the farmhouse just behind Stella, and her daughter's family uses the third home, 40 yards away. The large pool and an outdoor wood burning oven are shared by all.

In keeping with tradition, the restoration exposed the original stone walls, beamed ceilings, terracotta floors and a large open fireplace. The simple country furnishings are comfortable, and with the exception of the picture window in the dining room, all the windows are screened.

If arranged when booking to ensure availability, a cleaning service, meals and a cooking class may be arranged through a local chef. Guests need to provide their own phone service, since this property does not have any telecom services. Let us know if you need assistance with an international cell phone rental.

Situated just off the SS222, Chianti's renowned scenic wine route, the last wooded mile of the approach is unpaved and bumpy - smaller cars are suggested for better handling. Two country restaurants are within a few minutes by car. Castellina in Chianti, with restaurants, cafes, wine shops and a supermarket is a 10 minute drive; Radda in Chianti or Panzano with a Sunday morning market: 20; Monteriggioni: 25; Siena or Greve in Chianti: 30; San Gimignano or Florence: 45; Volterra or Arezzo: 70; Montepulciano, Cortona or Lucca: 90; Assisi or Pisa: 2 hours; Cinque Terre: 3 hours.

A tourist tax collected by the town is paid separately on the first seven nights. Children under age 14 are exempt.

Technical Description
Ground floor: Dining room with French doors to the furnished patio. Kitchen with stove top, microwave, fridge and dishwasher. One bedroom with two single beds. One bedroom with a queen size bed. One bathroom with tub and hand shower. Laundry room with washing machine.

First floor: Living room with fireplace, TV, CD player and doors with steps down to the furnished garden. Kitchen with stove top, microwave and fridge. One bedroom with a queen size bed. One bathroom with shower. One bedroom with a queen size bed and a single bed.