Two Sides of The Tuscan Sun 

September 7, 2026

Two Sides of The Tuscan Sun 

I had to tell the kids to channel their country-mouse selves as a country farm is pretty much the opposite of a Florence city hotel. The first complaint was the farm cats – for our one who does not like such things. And then the ants. And then the flies. And even the outdoor pool was a bit bothersome. Why? I can’t say. I just live with these people. 

It is actually quiet and tranquil and lush with flowering bushes and fruit trees. The moment of arrival was at the end of a couple of hours driving in the country and one wrong turn onto a very bumpy rock-laden road. We did a u-turn and found a new way. Every farm in this area – near Montemerano – is an agroturismo (farm stay) accommodation. Ours also has a birra and wine bar (about 7km away) specializing in local beef burgers. This was our own little miracle as it happens to be the fav meal for most of us. The town could not be cuter – a little hilltop castle with lots of alleyways containing apartments and restaurants below. Of course, there is a large chiesa (beautiful at sunset). A church is in every village, castle, and fortress. Whether they are still all active, I have not found out. 

The kids did handstands in the courtyard on the hand laid stone ground. We ate giant burgers. It was good. 

Can’t figure out the hot water in our shower. I’m not really bothered as it’s 90 degrees and there is a perfect farm pool right over there (out this window). 

And we researched thermal pools across the whole trip – there is one just 3 miles over – tonight’s outing! It is called the Cascate del Mulino. It is free and a beautiful example of the natural beauty here. Just bring your own towel (that will still be wet tomorrow … for your cold shower). And then you will dry off literally in the Tuscan sun. (Why does this not sound like the best thing ever to a teen?). I think it was startling that the whole countryside comes alive – there are tiny lizards and buzzing bugs. The trees make noise in the breeze. The birds chirp and swoop. There are not a lot of people. And the ones you meet speak Italian (not English) – and you just figure it out. 

Next, the olive oil farm and tasting (with wine, of course). I think our country mouse selves will be just fine.   

P.S. this post-script is just to share that tasting 3 olive oils takes 3.5 hours – a glorious time of learning and cheese and crostini. And then wine and meats. And then an espresso. And buying a bit of local olive oil and pasta. It was the day’s activity (apparently). This was a 10 out of 10 – It is at Terra Nera (they also have lodging and you can park your RV here for glamping! … next time).