
“Picchio
della Tinaia”* is located in the
heart of the sienese countryside, at only about
8 km from the city center. It’s name (Picchio)
derives from the nickmane by which Otello Martinelli
was called. He bought the farm “Tinaia”
back in the 50s and started his activity as
“contadino”
(farmer).

The
view one enjoys from here is really grand. It starts
from the Monte Amiata with the Rocca di Radicofani,
where
Ghino di Tacco was born,
continues with the Montalcino hills and its imposing
fortress, with the “crete” of Asciano
until it reaches the elegant skyline of Siena with
the Torre del Mangia and the bell-tower of the Duomo.
All this is surrounded by the Chianti hills with
all their vineyards and olive groves and historic
buildings like the Certosa di Pontignano.
*picchio = woodpecker; tinaia = place
where the wine tubs were stored

The magnificent Villa di Geggiano, a famous historic
country residence, is just up the road from “Picchio”.
It belongs to the Bianchi Bandinelli family since
1527 and has been entirely restored in the seventeenth
century. A beautiful lane shadowed by century-old
ilex trees leads to the gate of the Villa.
The surrounding farmhouses are remarkable results
of how well the country style has been combined
with modern architecture.
You can reach Siena in about 10 minutes by car or
also take the bus (the stop is at 1km from us).
You reach Porta Ovile where you can park your car
easily and take the escalator up to the city center.