Aside from being in the most stunning part of Tuscany, known as le Crete, l'Affresco is ideally positioned for explorers to see as much of central Italy as they wish. This nicely restored 300 acre farming estate produces olives and grains amid a surreal setting of wavy hills crowned by lonely pines and green or golden fields. It just gets better.

A 20 minute scenic drive leads to Monte Oliveto Maggiore, an ancient abbey in a forest that sits atop one of the earth's nine "power centers." Whether or not you believe in such things, natives claim longer, healthier lives and richer tasting food from the area's fertile lands. You be the judge based on the bottle of olive oil given by the owner.

The views from every apartment are simply magnificent. Each unit has its own furnished outdoor area. Colorful interiors are adorned with well placed antiques. The bedrooms have screened windows. Kitchen areas are compact and well crafted. Larger groups may want to consider Pennello and Pastello, as these two units enjoy side by side terraces.

All guests share the pool, a barbecue and a laundry room with a washing machine. Maid service and meals may be arranged when booking. The helpful keyholder lives 200 yards away and can organize a cooking class for a minimum of four persons; fresh water fishing on the estate's pond with the rental of tackle; boat tours along the Tuscan coast; assistance with visiting the Castello Banfi winery in Montalcino; and discounts at an Asciano ceramics shop and at a thermal spa in Rapolano Terme. The estate's office also sells locally produced oil and wine and even allows you to occasionally check up on your email.

Parking is 50 yards away with only 10 steps to ascend. All of the estate's barns, tractors and stables blessedly occupy their own space 100 yards away, and the nearest restaurant is within 600 yards. Asciano with more restaurants and shops is a 10 minute drive; the spas at Rapolano Terme or the Museum of Sacred Art in Buonconvento: 20; Siena: 30; San Quirico d'Orcia: 35; Pienza: 40; Cortona, Arezzo, Montalcino, Passignano sul Trasimeno (Lake Trasimeno): 45; Montepulciano or Castellina in Chianti: 50; Florence, Perugia or Orvieto: 75; Volterra or Assisi: 80; Rome or Castiglione della Pescaia (Tuscan coast): 2 hours.

Technical Description
First floor: Entrance from a shared furnished loggia into hallway leading to living room with sofabed, fireplace, TV and CD player. Eat-in kitchen with stove top, oven, fridge and dishwasher. One bedroom with a queen size bed. One bedroom with two single, joinable beds. Two bathrooms each with shower. This unit has a furnished area in the garden.