Casale Elsa is a perfect starting point to explore Tuscany: situated in the heart of Chianti, the major attractions of the region can easily be reached. It is only a 15 minutes' drive to the jewel of San Gimignano, and within an hour you can reach both Florence and Siena. Closer are some lesser-known treasures: On the next hill lies the romantic old town of Certaldo, abuzz each July with its medieval pageant, the Mercantia, during the summer months concerts and art exhibitions are hold here. In Certaldo (4 km) you will find all kind of grocery shops, a supermarket, post office, banks, bars and restaurants. In the other direction lie San Vivaldo, a Franciscan monastery with its 13th century chapels, and Montaione, whose pedestrianised old centre is packed with shops and restaurants.
A short drive along a country lane lined with cypresses, leads to the property (500 m dirt road). Casale Elsa dates back to the 19th-century. The original building was just the Tower, built to see the arrival of strangers. Through the years, the structure has been enlarged to its present form. Once a modest farmhouse with barn it has been completely restored in 1992 and converted into seven rustic apartments. Another farmhouse is retained by the owners who are there to enjoy the peace of the countryside on occasional weekends. The property, immersed in the magical atmosphere of the Tuscan hills, is surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, fields of sunflowers, cherry trees, walnut trees and woods. On return from a day out, you can relax with a swim in the pool, enjoying the nature and the peace of the estate. The pool is set in middle of a large and well-kept lawn.