The Venue and Accommodation

The meeting will take place in one of the most beautiful spots of the Tuscan countryside, far from the noise and haste of everyday life. Located south of Siena, the Abbazia di Spineto and its rural environs is still one of the few unspoiled venues in Tuscany, ideal for a few days of retreat and discussion. The central Abbey is surrounded by several old houses and the whole complex provides lodging facilities for all the participants. Common areas in the rural houses and in the Abbey definitely favour the interaction among subgroups and at the same time offer a variety of stimulating enviroments. The meeting also provides an opportunity to discover ancient itineraries through the Val D'Orcia, a land of hot spings, vineyards, ancient villages and solitary churches. Transportation from/to Florence and from/to Chiusi/Chianciano Terme (railway station between Rome and Florence) will be provided by the Organizers.

For more information on the venue, see www.abbaziadispineto.com or check photos of the former Spineto meetings IMF@50, HIsurvival, SFR@50 at the Arcetri workshop site.

Conference Participants can be accommodated in the Tenuta di Spineto. The total cost estimate for the accommodation (5 days full board including drinks, from the afternoon of Sunday June 7 to the afternoon of Friday June 12, 2015) is 870 euros for single rooms and 670 euros per person for double rooms. After registration closes all accepted participants and invited speakers will receive instructions on how to confirm the room reservation. A money deposit will be required (instruction will be given once registration is closed). Note that it will not be possible to book the room for a shorter stay (in this case we suggest to contact us before considering a private accommodation).

In Spineto there are three types of lodging units: the old Abbey, the Guesthouse, and the Farmhouses. The Abbey and Guesthouse are clustered in the core of the property, while the Farmhouses are scattered in the countryside. The Conference Center is a new building very close to the Abbey and to the Guesthouse. All units are connected by shuttle buses free of charge.

All bedrooms, each with private bathroom, have been recently restored and are of superior quality. A number of rooms has queen size beds, and these are suitable for participants with accompanying persons. There are only a few rooms with 3 or 4 beds suitable for families. Some houses have internet connection.