I sometimes wonder whether the fact that Sant'Antonio began its life as a monastery is the reason it conveys such a wonderful sense of serenity.

We have stayed at Sant'Antonio several times, and have either stayed in or visited just about all of the apartments. Conversion of the monastery to apartments in a manner that retained the historical architecture of the buildings has resulted in thirteen apartments of different shapes and sizes, each having its own charming characteristics. The similarities are found in the cleanliness and quality of furnishings and fixtures in each apartment.

Each apartment has a comfortable sitting area complete with satellite TV. Most apartments have a wood burning fireplace with an endless supply of wood provided. Kitchens have a four burner stove top (no oven), a full sized fridge/freezer, and electric kettle and toaster plus just about every cooking utensil we have ever needed to produce full meals. There are complete sets of good quality china, glassware and cutlery and a reasonable selection of serving dishes. Garbage is removed daily. Wine, soft drinks, beer and water are replenished as needed, the cost of which (very reasonable) is added to your final bill.

Bedrooms have orthopedic beds, night tables with reading lamps, a chest of drawers and closet hanging space. Fully tiled bathrooms are equipped with hair dryers and sufficient storage space for your toiletries. Water pressure is good, and the water is hot. Towels and bed linen are of high quality and are changed mid week which we really appreciate. Extra pillows and quilts/blankets are found in each apartment.

Each apartment has its own outdoor patio or garden area furnished with a table and chairs in addition to a number of communal terraces with brick BBQs and larger tables for group meals. The swimming pool is at the highest point of the property, resulting in stunning views to Mt Amiata or across the valley to Lake Trasimeno. There are loungers, tables and sun umbrellas at the pool as well as dotted around the extensive grounds.

There are computers with high speed internet access available to guests for a small weekly fee in the converted stable.

Of course all of the above, to some level, can be found at many apartment rentals in Italy. What sets Sant'Antonio apart is the owner. Nico's energy, enthusiasm and determination to exceed the expectations of every guest transforms a wonderful vacation into something magical. Nico becomes a very dear friend to the many returning guests at Sant'Antonio, and of course the reason so many do return year after year.

Sant'Antonio is well situated for visiting the Val d'Orcia, Pienza, Montalcino, San Quirico, Chuisi, Bagno Vignoni and the Abbeys of Monte Oliveto Maggiore and Saint Antimo.

Closer to home, Montepulciano itself has a number of excellent restaurants, a couple of grocery stores, pharmacy, and a Laundromat. On Thursday mornings there is a typical market with everything from farm fresh veggies to shoes and the customary porcetta van!