Villa Montemerano

The Maremma is the other face of Tuscany – a wild region stretching along the Tyrrhenian coastline opposite the island of Elba between Leghorn and Grosseto. Unspoilt beaches fringed with dunes are backed by hillsides covered in Mediterranean scrub and olive groves, crested by charming hill-top villages. The reclaimed flatlands where cattle used to roam herded by the local cowboys have today largely been given over to well-husbanded vineyards yielding some of the most prestigious vintages in Italy. Where there is great wine there tends to be great food.  

Savoir Vivre: People come to the area for its superb wine and culinary culture. “Simply the best” is the motto of the surrounding trattorias and cantinas. The proud oak trees, rolling fields of wheat and sunflowers, and olive groves are the pantry of the region and a refreshing haven for relaxation.

Beach & Sea: The coast is just a short drive from Tenuta Thun, where fine sandy shores beckon for a refreshing swim. The crystal-clear waters, with their perfect bathing temperature from May to October, offer an ideal setting for relaxation. For those seeking adventure, boats are available for hire, allowing you to explore the stunning nearby islands of Giglio and Giannutri.

Lake Burano: 30 km south of Tenuta Thun lies a lagoon run by the WWF. The bird-watching here is excellent, above all in spring and autumn.

The WWF Maremma National Park: The Park encompasses seven towers, the remains of an abbey and twenty-six grottoes. In summer the National Park can only be visited accompanied by a guide. Visits by night from 8 to 11 pm are a special thrill. 

The Etruscans: a trip through what was known as Etruria is one of the most interesting archaeological excursions in Italy. Tarquinia and Tuscania, only 30 kms away from the Cavallini estate, boast worldwide famous archeological excavations which should not be missed.

Monte Argentario is not far from the estate. Known and famous for its archaeological excavations, the Mediterranean maquis with a myriad of wildflowers, but also as an important meeting place, especially for the Italian jet set (Porto Santo Stefano). On the way there, a visit to the charming and culturally interesting town of Orbetello is well worthwhile.

History destination: The Maremma is considered the cradle of the Etruscans, who cultivated central Italy in the 7th century BC. You can discover their secrets at the archaeological sites of Tarquinia and Tuscania.

Pure relaxation: The esrate lies in one of the most beautiful places in the Maremma – the unique view towards Argentario and over the Albegna Valley, the undisturbed location, perfect sunsets and a starry sky form a peaceful symphony of harmony.

Tarot garden by the artist Niki de Saint-Phalle: the famous French artist built her “Jardin des Tarots” on one of the hills 20 km from the estate. Inspired by the figures on the tarot cards, there are 22 gigantic sculptures made of ceramic and colored glass.

Saturnia is famous for its hot sulphury springs, which gush out of the earth at a temperature of 37° in the middle of nature, about 5 km from the town itself, forming a picturesque, foam-crowned waterfall. Open to everyone all year round, in summer guests particularly prefer evening and night-time excursions. Saturnia is half an hour’s drive from the estate.

Wine tastings: Villa Montemerano  is located in the DOCG growing area of Morellino di Scansano, an excellent red wine that must consist of at least 85% Sangiovese grapes. A cheaper version of a high-quality red wine in the tradition of Brunello di Moltancino or Vino Nobile. Wine stores, restaurants and local suppliers such as Terenzi, Roccapesta, Poggio Argentiera and Le Pupille offer tastings of this delicious drop. But the local white wine star Vermentino is not to be sneezed at either.

Pitigliano, Sorano and Sovana, the magical tuff towns of Tuscany: founded over 3000 years ago by the Etruscans, picturesquely beautiful thanks to the spectacular architecture perched on exposed rocks.