In the very heart of an unknown and unspoilt part of Tuscany where life still follows the pace of nature sits Podere Paugnano, an authentic Tuscan farmhouse surrounded by stunning views and wild nature. Podere Paugnano is an organic farm producing Pecorino cheese, olive oil and vegetables which can all be tasted on site.

Paugnano's beauty lies in the authenticity of Giovanna's hosting. She likes  people to feel at home from the very moment they set foot at the farm and loves it when guests take part in any farming activities and  respects guests who just want to relax. Giovanna and her family are always just at hand, but absolutely unobtrusive.

The farm bustles with life from early in the morning (your sleep is not, however, spoilt!) and all sorts of activities are carried out, from sheep walking, milking, cheese making, cooking, tendering the garden etc. There are always one or two international WWOOF volunteers helping at the house, which means that although Giovanna's familiy speak little English, you are most likely to be able to communicate!

The atmosphere at Paugnano is very informal and easy going - please do not expect to find a tidy reception and an elegant receptionist on arrival! You will most likely find Giovanna with her hands in dough making ravioli!

The farm hosts cheese making, cheese tasting and cooking classes and dinners on a weekly basis for small groups. Many interesting people are to be met at the farm if you like to socialise.

If you are more reserved, you can be assured that your quiet wil not be spoilt, as the rental houses (except Melo) are away from the main area of activity. The pool, moreover, is accessed only by guests staying at the farmhouse.

The farmhouse is divided in 5 flats - 3 of which are for rental and an independent barn, all restored with care.

A large, garden offers an inviting 6x12m large swimming pool, some children's games, and a magnificent view over the surrounding hills and the nearby hilltop village of Radicondoli.

Special features:

Large independent room with a wood oven for you to have your pizza parties – have a go at making your own pizzas!

Services:

The house offers also a large kitchen/dining room with a huge fireplace with sofas for people to stay together and where Giovanna, the owner, can produce simple, genuine, scrumptious meals on request.

Relax and enjoy having a scrumptious organic meal cooked for you and served either in your apartment, outdoors or inGiovanna's large independent dining room.

Free wireless fast internet connection available for guests.

Pets: 4 dogs and 5 cats live at the farmhouse.

Radicondoli is a picturesque village, set high on the hills of the Colline Metallifere, offering breathtaking views of the valleys around - stretching as far as Volterra and S. Gimignano. It has a very strong identity and a very lively community. Many holiday rentals are available in Radicondoli, with and without swimming pool.
Throughout the year many village feasts liven up the otherwise quiet lifestyle. The village brass band is a gem. Events worth mentioning are 1 May, S. Giovanni on 23 June; the famous Drama Festival from 27 July to 12 August which attracts Italian and International artists. Booking a Radicondoli vacation rental is a fantastic way savour true Tuscan life.
Fantastic weather from May to October, May and September being the very best months to enjoy the natural setting, the sunlight and temperature. Radicondoli and Belforte are perfectly preserved Medieval villages that have kept their character and very lively community. This area is in fact one of the few still authentic and unspoilt parts of Tuscany, away from the limelight and off the beaten track. The village is very close to stunning art cities like Siena, Florence and S. Gimignano, but immersed in wild nature.

Really worth seeing in the area is the Abbey of San Galgano, with the sword in the rock, the geysers at Lardarello, the rolling hills towards Casole d'Elsa, the rivers Merse, Cecina and Farma.