NEAR PIENZA, SIENA Podere Trequanda is a stunning complex of historic Tuscan buildings, beautifully restored, including accommodation, a restaurant with 60 covers, and a conference room. There are farreaching views to Pienza (4km), Montalcino (30km), Montepulciano (15km) and Monte Amiata. It is situated 60km from Arezzo, 100km from Florence and 190km from Rome. The first signs of habitation can be traced back to 1200. Podere Trequanda itself dates back to 1327 and was the dwelling of Olivetan monks, who cultivated olives. It was subsequently a farm estate, and in the last few centuries, parts have been added to the main building to create a magnificent courtyard. This original structure (300m2) has been maintained and it has been restored using bioarchitectural principles (the building interacts with man and the environment) many original features have also been retained (there is a lovely portico with views), reclaimed materials have been used wherever possible and all new building materials are ecologically friendly. The electrics are screened to avoid electromagnetic pollution. It has been decorated and furnished according to Feng Shui principles by its famous owner. Water is derived and filtered from 3 wells. There are 40 hectares of land (half is farmland and half is wood) and it includes 2000 olive trees. All of it is organically cultivated. High quality extra virgin olive oil is produced (Certificate AIAB). The swimming pool is set in attractive parkland, next to a juniper wood and ageold olive groves. Currently, the accommodation consists of: 4 suites: each has a bedroom + large living room + bathroom with hydromassage shower; 1 suite also has a kitchenette 4 double rooms (2 of which have shared bathrooms). All rooms have satellite TV, underfloor or radiator central heating and air conditioning. One selfcatering guesthouse with 3 bedrooms (2 double, 1 single), living room with fireplace, kitchen, bathroom and terrace. The restaurant serves traditional, yet healthy cuisine. Podere Trequanda is the site of a thought and meditation group, which makes use of the conference facilities for its seminars and meetings.