Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Villa Ferraia II

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If you have any interest in learning to cook authentic Tuscan cuisine, you must make a trip to Villa Ferraia.   Ferraia’s chefs will share their knowledge of the land, local produce and timeless recipes.   Torta della Nonna (Grandmother’s cake, above) is a classic dessert from the region with a creamy filling and pine nuts on the top.

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Stefano heads up the culinary program 

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and shows us how to make pizza dough the traditional way.

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The pizzas are roasted in a wood-fired oven pictured at the bottom of this page.

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Several acres of the property are dedicated to a spectacular organic garden and greenhouse.

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Zucchini blossoms and artichokes are abundant during the summer months.

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And you will meet interesting people from all over of the world.

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I highly recommend a visit!

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Villa Ferraia

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A little south of Siena and off the beaten path, you will find Villa Ferraia.  Near the village of Tocchi, Ferraia was once a tiny hamlet surrounded by a dense forest.  Wild boar and deer thrive in the area.

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Owners Vittorio and Patrizia Cambria bought the abandoned structure and used the surviving brick walls for the foundation for their beautiful new lodge . 

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Villa Ferraia is a peaceful retreat with many pleasing features such as an infinity edge pool and spa.

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An organic garden provides fresh vegetables

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and luscious fruit with every meal.

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Dining alfresco on the patio is always a special event.

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Led by Vittoria himself, you can ride through quaint surrounding villages

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and enjoy a picnic along the way.

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Villa Ferraia is this photographer’s dream!

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More on Ferraia to come…