Siena

Today we decided to venture out to nearby Siena for the evening - its too hot (38-40c) to be out and about with the kids during the heat of the day, and for us the time is much better spent cooling off and relaxing by the pool. From our villa, Siena is roughly a 20km drive - initially through scenic hills which make for some exciting driving with blind hair-pin corners, narrow stone wall lined roads and stretches of tree lined avenues. Winding down from the hills takes us through a number of small townships and into a valley with paddocks full of sunflowers and others with freshly cut hay. ...

So after a long few days of travel, we arrived yesterday evening at what will become our home for the next week - villa Podere Incronciati - a traditional Tuscan villa built in 1840 about 20km outside of Siena. We were welcomed by the owner and offered complimentary wine, cheese, olives, fruit and other nibbles - which was much appreciated after the drive from Rome. After settling on rooms, we unpacked before hitting the pool to cool down and relax for a bit - which was great in the 38c heat. ...