Set within 40 acres of gardens, woodlands and olive groves, L’Aiaccia has many lovely spaces to gather, relax and have fun outdoors.
The Pool
Taking advantage of the unique topography of Chianti, the spectacular 15 x 5 meter private pool is built into one of the property’s ancient olive grove terraces below the house. The pool is flanked on one side by a stunning 5-meter tall stone wall and on the other side by a submerged black slate walkway that extends from one end of the pool to the other and captures the warmth of the sun to serve as a natural heater. The automatic pool cover can be closed at night to retain the warmth of the water, thereby extending the length of the “pool season” at the villa. The pool area has a generous deck at the shallow end with an extra-large 3 x 4 meter umbrella and lounge chairs – each with its own small sunshade.
Games Barn
Near the entrance to the property is a small barn, “Il Fienile,” which has been converted into a fun place to play with ping pong and foozball tables, seating, a bathroom and a fabulous wrought- iron dragon chandelier overhead.
Al Fresco Dining
There are two outdoor dining areas: one just outside the kitchen door under a beautiful wisteria arbor overlooking the formal garden of boxwood and lavender with views across the countryside of vineyards, olive trees, and the tiny hamlet of Castagnoli in the distance; the other in the protective shade of the entry loggia – providing the option to eat outside no matter what the weather. A family of swallows annually nest in the beams of the entry loggia, considered a sign of good luck for the house.
Terraces and Gardens
Beyond the pool and outdoor dining areas, there are several other outdoor areas to gather, read, or just relax. Above the house, with stunning views over the Tuscan countryside, the charming upper terrace is furnished with two large comfortable teak sofas and two armchairs. It is a perfect place to gather – particularly in the evening for a pre-dinner glass of wine or to stargaze at night. On the sunny “aia” – or former threshing floor for the farm – near the barn’s entrance is yet another lounge area with two comfortable lounge chairs. A shaded hammock provides a great spot to relax or read.
The gardens close to the house overflow with flowers and fruit through much of the year. Fresh herbs are outside the kitchen door and fig, pear, apple, persimmon, plum, corbezzollo (the red and yellow berries pictured) and olive trees abound. A lovely grape arbor shades the walk from the small barn to the house. Potted lemon trees grace the stone courtyard between the Main House and La Porcilaia. Lavender, roses and boxwood fill the formal garden and locally handcrafted terracotta pots overflow with flowers.
L’Aiaccia has its own olive grove and produces its own wonderful extra virgin olive oil. Those guests interested in a good hike can explore the stony terraces where our tasty oil comes from. (See pictures of the olive harvest under the OLIVE HARVEST tab.)