Podere Aster is a traditional Tuscan farm which has been carefully renovated to a high standard, and today offers lucky holidaymakers a collection of five beautifully furnished independent dwellings, accommodating up to twenty guests. It’s located in the heart of Tuscany, about forty-five kilometres south of Siena and within easy reach of the towns of Asciano and Chiusure, and their local amenities. Podere Aster is surrounded by verdant hills, peaceful countryside and charming villages. The ancient and famous city of Siena is just one hour north-west, or you can travel about thirty-five kilometres south-east to Montepulciano to taste some of the noblest red wines Italy has to offer. The five dwellings within Podere Aster feature modern, restrained interiors, whitewashed walls and some boast ancient exposed beams, attractive arches, patio doors and plenty of windows, from which you can admire the exquisite views. Each villa option also provides outdoor terraces for relaxing in the shade with a cooling drink, al fresco dining or simply soaking up the sun.  The main house offers accommodation across two floors and is suitable for up to eight people, with four bedrooms and bathrooms, a living room, dining room and fabulous kitchen. The smaller house is ideal for a group of four to six guests, with two bedrooms, three bathrooms and charming living accommodation and kitchen. There are then two self-contained apartments, one on the ground floor and one on the first floor, which suit two to three people. And finally, the self-contained first-floor flat is great for two guests. All guests at Podere Aster share the extensive gardens and private pool, where secluded corners, sun terraces and shaded seating offer ample opportunity to enjoy your own space, read a book, or sit with a coffee and marvel at the countryside all around. Your private pool is luxurious and indulgent. It’s a great length for swimming and the infinity edge will keep you in the water, just to admire the view. Pick a sun lounger and settle in for a long afternoon’s snoozing and sunbathing in your very own Tuscan retreat. Features: Main house (300m2) Ground Floor - Large open-plan dining room and living room, with huge archways and windows - Fantastic kitchen equipped with modern appliances, including Nespresso coffee machine and breakfast bar - Library and multi-media station - Access to two outdoor terraces and courtyard First Floor - Four bedrooms, each with a separate bathroom Smaller house (130m2) - Open-plan living accommodation including a dining room, well-appointed kitchen and large living area - The patio doors lead out to a covered terrace and al fresco dining room - Four to six guests share two bedrooms and three bathrooms First floor apartment (60m2) - Well-equipped small kitchen with coffee machine, open to the living room - One double bedroom and additional single bed in sitting area, each with separate bathroom - Pleasant covered terrace  Ground floor apartment (60m2) - One double bedroom and additional single bed in sitting area, each with separate bathroom - Well-equipped small kitchen which is open to the living room - Attractive outdoor terrace First floor apartment (30m2) - Well-equipped kitchen - Double bedroom and single bed in the sitting room - Bathroom - Guests have fabulous views towards Pienza Outside Grounds - Old converted farm complex with courtyards, extensive gardens and renovated stone buildings - Large private pool featuring an infinity edge - Two al fresco dining areas, beside the pool and the villa - Barbecue Facilities - Wi-Fi - Flat Screen Television - Fans - Washing machine - Tumble dryer - Iron and ironing board - Board games Location: The amazing city of Siena (30km) is about an hour away from Podere Aster, and an obvious choice for a day’s sightseeing. The impressive Piazzo del Campo – which hosts the famous Palio horse race twice each summer – is the perfect place to start. Beyond this vast square, you can explore the medieval streets of the historic centre, which is a Unesco world heritage site, climb to the top of Torre del Mangia for magnificent views across Siena’s terracotta rooftops, and visit Duomo di Siena Cathedral. Closer to home, your nearest town of Asciano (11km) lies in the picturesque Creti Senese region in the Ombrone River valley. The church of Saint Agatha dates back to the twelfth-century and leads you into the old town’s narrow streets.  Wine tasting at Montepulciano (35km) is just forty-five minutes away, so start nominating drivers now. The wine tours take you through the medieval streets of this delightful town, and a visit to the cellars will lead you underground. Savour the flavour of the famous noble red wines, and learn more about the history of wine making in this region, and which local dishes make the perfect accompaniment. Tours can be booked for trips out to the vineyards, or simply wander through town from winery to tasting shop. Terms & Conditions: Security deposit? €1500 paid in cash to the owner upon arrival or by Wire Transfer and refunded upon departure, subject to full inspection. Arrival time? 4:00 p.m. Departure time? 10:00 a.m. Energy costs included? Yes. Linen & towels included? Yes, including pool towels. Pets welcome? On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. Changeover day? Saturday during high and mid season; otherwise flexible. End of stay cleaning included? Yes end of stay cleaning and mid week cleaning are included. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. Smoking Allowed? Outside only. Insurance? It is recommended that all guests take out insurance to cover against potential cancellation and any accidental damage caused during your stay at the property Minimum stay? 7 nights. Heating costs included? Extra cost based on consumption, paid locally. Tax? Italian Visitors Tax payable locally (typically costs approximately between €1-€3 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). Internet access? Wi-Fi included in rental price. Other Ts and Cs? Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges.