Between History, Nature And Illustrious Guests: The Grand Duke’s Residence

In the heart of Monte Amiata, between Arcidosso and Santa Fiora, an 18th-century residence once belonging to Leopold, Grand Duke of Tuscany, preserves a history shaped by nature, elegance and extraordinary encounters. Over the years, this elegant home has been chosen as a private retreat by internationally renowned figures. In 1990, the Dalai Lama stayed here during his visit to the Merigar Tibetan Center; in the summer of 1992, the villa welcomed Bernardo Bertolucci, who came to the area to meet Master Namkhai Norbu in connection with the preparation of the film Little Buddha.

The villa still retains the refined atmosphere of an aristocratic residence. It was carefully renovated in the 1990s using high-quality materials, while preserving the building’s authentic character. It occupies a secluded position, surrounded by the tranquillity of a magnificent private park of approximately 1.85 hectares, with chestnut woods, centuries-old fruit trees and extensive green areas (two large level spaces, one of which also offers interesting possibilities for private sports activities).

The residence offers approximately 390 sq m of commercial floor area and 328 sq m of living space, arranged over two levels: the ground floor comprises a double reception room, a spacious bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and study with a sofa bed, which can also be used as a small bedroom. The first floor features an elegant living room, dining room, kitchen, two bedrooms, walk-in wardrobe, two bathrooms and a charming covered outdoor loggia. A garage, laundry room and utility rooms complete the interior spaces. Outside there is a small cellar, a traditional oven and a pleasant barbecue area, ideal for enjoying the property during the summer and sharing convivial moments with family and friends. A large 12 × 6 metre swimming pool completes the setting.

The property has a water spring at a depth of approximately 100 metres and an important geothermal district-heating system, providing considerable value in terms of everyday comfort and low running costs. Another noteworthy feature is its proximity to Amiata’s new indoor swimming pool, scheduled to open shortly, which will enhance the area’s sports and recreational facilities and further increase the value of the property’s location.

Solid wood parquet flooring, restored antique terracotta, handcrafted doors and windows, solid chestnut doors, two fireplaces, bespoke furnishings and prestigious finishes by Riccardo Barthel, Versace, Zazzeri and Cassina complete this truly unique residence.

A property for those seeking not merely a house, but a place with identity, history and atmosphere. For a large family, it could become a unique private residence; for an investor, it offers features that are exceptionally difficult to replicate on the market.

LOCATION
Situated in Aiole, within the municipality of Arcidosso, the property lies on the Grosseto side of Mount Amiata, surrounded by greenery, forests, chestnut groves and rolling hills. An ideal setting for those wishing to live close to nature without giving up proximity to services and the Amiata’s main towns.

Arcidosso, just a few minutes away, offers shops, services, restaurants and a characteristic historic centre dominated by the Aldobrandesca Fortress. Nearby are Castel del Piano and Santa Fiora, among the area’s most interesting villages, while Mount Amiata offers numerous opportunities for leisure and outdoor activities, including trekking and mountain-bike trails, woodland routes and snow-related activities during the winter season.

The area is also rich in natural and cultural attractions: nearby are Parco Piscine Capenti, the Merigar Tibetan Studies Centre and the Monte Labbro Nature Reserve. The summit of Mount Amiata is easily accessible and is a popular destination for excursions, walks and sports activities in every season.

The location also provides quick access to the Val d’Orcia, with villages such as Seggiano, Castiglione d’Orcia, Bagno Vignoni and Montalcino, as well as the renowned thermal resorts of Bagni San Filippo and Saturnia.

This setting therefore allows residents to fully experience the Amiata area, combining nature, historic villages, food and wine, thermal baths and outdoor activities. The Maremma coast is also within easy reach, making it possible to get to the sea within the day.

Approximate distances

Arcidosso – approx. 3 km | 5 min
Castel del Piano – approx. 6 km | 10 min
Santa Fiora – approx. 8 km | 10 min
Seggiano – approx. 12 km | 15 min
Summit of Mount Amiata – approx. 12 km | 15 min
Abbadia San Salvatore – approx. 18 km | 25 min
Saturnia Thermal Baths / Cascate del Mulino – approx. 40 km | 45 min
Grosseto – approx. 55 km | 55 min
Siena – approx. 70 km | 1 hr 15 min
Castiglione della Pescaia – approx. 75 km | 1 hr 15 min