The Olive Court Farmhouse, Rapolano Terme, Siena – Tuscany
Ancient farmhouse with restaurant, pool, spa, solar panels, and land for sale in Rapolano Terme, Siena. In the heart of the Crete Senesi countryside, just 20 minutes east of Siena and a few minutes from the hot thermal springs of Rapolano Terme, in a reserved position overlooking an incredible corner of Tuscany. The first documents attesting its existence date back to 1040 and in all the centuries to follow it was owned by noble Sienese families as a traditional farmhouse. It conserves an atmosphere telling of its thousand-years-long history boasting a combination of authentic materials: row stone and travertine stone facades, mighty walls, interiors with large brick arches and high ceilings with exposed chestnut wooden beams. A large olive tree welcomes in the very center of the inner courtyard, the heart of the house, and leads to the restaurant area with a fireplace and a spacious outdoor veranda, and the spa featuring sauna, jacuzzi and massage cabins. The outdoor stone staircase heads to a separate guest suite and a residence for private use with three bedrooms. The cottage in front of the courtyard is designed for guests with four separate suites all with direct access to the garden, two with characteristic loft areas. All rooms feature underfloor heating and cooling system, while a photovoltaic with solar panels supplies both electricity and hot water. The garden is home to a pond with goldfish and to a unique bio pool molded on natural clay soil with gentle curves creating a harmony of shape and color with the environment. An olive grove with 800 trees, a small Chianti Colli Senesi appellation vineyard and a forest with centuries-old trees surround the property. A separate building is used as cellar and agricultural storage, while the basement of the cottage is for garage use. Used as a private residence today, it could be easily transformed again in a country retreat to host tourists for their vacations. Some structural works and updating are necessary.