ECO-TOURISM IN TUSCANY 
 
Imagine yourselves surrounded by butterflies and wildflowers, in a landscape of rolling hills, rich forests and gentle pastures - olive groves dot the hillsides and the air is filled with the sound of golden orioles, nightingales, bees. Overhead you may spot a couple of buzzards, an eagle, or a Lanner, while on the ground you might catch a glimpse of porcupine, hare or deer. Still off the beaten tourist track, ornithologists and nature-lovers come here for its rich natural biodiversity and to marvel at the beauty of the rock faces where eagles nest and the Albegna river cuts its course to the sea.  
 
Podere Bellavista is a comfortable, recently restored farmhouse with its own private pool and large garden (with stone built bbq) set in just such surroundings. Secluded but not isolated, it offers great views, privacy and space in a rural setting. The restoration was made to a high standard using traditional Tuscan materials. There is a large farmhouse dining table in the kitchen as well as tables and chairs on the veranda leading from it, a working fireplace, gas and wood-fired boilers, 4.2kW photovoltaic energy. The accommodates up to 8 people plus baby. 
 
Medieval towns such as Roccalbegna supply groceries, bank, chemist and good restaurants, and the attractions of Pitigliano and its Etruscan ruins, the thermal spa of Saturnia are close by. Siena, Montalcino, Pienza and Montepulciano are from 50 to 90 mins away and the major cities within day-trip distance.  
 
Taste the excellent local Morellino di Scansano and Montecucco at the local winery, or the world famous Brunello at Montalcino, eat wild boar or vegetarian "acqua cotta", visit the beaches at Monte Argentario or the islands, Giglio and Giannutri or Elba further away, or hire a dinghy at Porto Santo Stefano and snorkel. There's lots to do nearer home - walking, cycling (bring your own), a neighbour has horses for hire, or visit Rocconi, the local WWF reserve.