Located very close to our podere is the garden of Swiss artist Daniel Spoerri, which he established in 1997. Spread across approximately 20 hectares, the grounds currently feature installations by 50 contemporary artists. For art lovers, this is an absolute must-see! Please check their website for the most up-to-date opening hours and ticket prices.

Not far from Montelaterone—just 15 minutes away, to be precise—lies Merigar, a Buddhist center founded in 1981 by Chögyal Namkhai Norbu. In 1990, the Dalai Lama even visited here to inaugurate the most significant building: the Temple of Great Contemplation (Gönpa).

You are welcome to explore the grounds on your own or join a guided tour for a deeper look. For all the details, I recommend checking their official website. Even a brief visit is well worth it, as the landscape alone is incredibly striking.

Saturnia

There are four thermal springs in Tuscany that are accessible to the public free of charge. The most famous is Saturnia, located just 51 minutes from our podere. The sulfurous water stays at a steady 37°C and is known for its healing properties, particularly for rheumatism and osteoarthritis.

I would recommend visiting the springs either very early in the morning or later in the evening, as they have become incredibly popular (especially since they’ve been all over Instagram with those dreamy photos). A little personal note: This is actually where I met my Italian husband back in 2015! 😉

About an hour away from Montelaterone lies a place known as the "Tuscan Desert." Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views—we were there in January for the sunset and were actually the only ones there. It is a moment I will never forget.

Other Iconic Viewpoints:

• Podere Belvedere: One of the most photographed farmhouses in Tuscany.

• Poggio Covili Cypress Avenue: That famous, perfectly lined row of cypress trees.

• "Gladiator House" (Genna Borborini Maria Eva): The famous filming location from the movie Gladiator.

I highly recommend Googling these spots to see if you’d like to include a detour to any of them in your plans!

Montelaterone isn't right by the sea, of course, BUT if you drive to the nearest coast, you won't believe your eyes: crystal-clear water just like in the Maldives. I’m listing two natural beaches here that I highly recommend:

• Sterpaia (Area Naturale Protetta di Interesse Locale): This is our favorite spot. There’s even a hip beach bar called “Nano Verde” that hosts live music during the summer months.

• Marina di Alberese: Another beach we always visit. It’s a pristine, quiet beach that offers pure relaxation.

Pro Tip: Keep “Cala Violina” in mind as well—it’s one of the most popular and frequently visited beaches in the Maremma region.

The winery is located near the rustico. You can go there for wine tastings and purchase excellent wine at a better price. Feel free to check their homepage for opening hours