Villa Rental near Florence

Villa Rental near Florence - VILLA MONASTERO: Villa Monastero ( sleeps 17 – living space 310m2) This villa is located in the east of Tuscany, 18km southeast of Florence. The east of Tuscany is known as the holy land of monasteries. Villa Monastero was formerly constructed to house the farming monks of the Vallombrosa monastery. The Vallombrosa request was founded in 1038 by San Giovanni Gualberto Visdomini who wanted to send out his message to the wealthy in order to convince them to adopt a simpler and purer way of life. Contrary to the principles of the request, it grew richer and wealthier during the 16th and 17th centuries, when the main abbey was built. During the beginning of the middle ages, the Villa Monastero was built with also 2 central tower similar to those of the fortress – like abbey of the Renaissance.

Florence Holiday Accomodation - For those who wish to discover more of eastern Tuscany, the ancient city of Arezzo is just 70km away from Monastero and also nearby is the medieval hilltop town of Cortona with its variety of architecture, art and culture. We are happy to provide our guests with itineraries to towns such as Bibbiena, which is one of the oldest towns in the region, where territorial feuds between Arezzo and Florence would take place during the medieval era. To the north of Arezzo lies Poppi and the extensive Casentino region - an area of woodland, hills and tiny charming villages. We are also happy to help with itineraries for day trips to other towns in Tuscany including, Lucca, Pisa, San Gimignano, Volterra, Montepulciano, Siena and the Chianti area. Letting us know in advance, we can organise guides to show you round the areas/towns you choose. Visits to wineries and vineyards in the Chianti region is also possible since Tuscany is famous for its wine production.

Villa Rental near Florence - HISTORY: 25 acres of land abundant with olive groves and a small San Giovese vineyard, which was once looked after by the monks of the region, surround the Villa Monastero. The monks’ living quarters has been turned into 3 apartments that can be rented on a weekly basis. The east of Tuscany is attractive for its art, architecture, culture and relaxing atmosphere. In John Milton's epic ‘Paradise lost’ (1667) he describes the beauty of the nearby abbey and its natural setting, the largest beech wood forest in Europe. There are various walking paths and picnic areas to be found in the vicinity of the forest and the Monastery of Vallombrosa.

Florence Holiday Accomodation - THE APARTMENTS: The three Monastero apartments can accommodate 2 to 6 guests. They all have private bathroom and kitchen facilities. The marvellous North/South views from each apartment are of famous Tuscan scenery, including vines and groves. Each apartment has amenities such as toasters, microwaves, sound systems, hairdryers, irons and high-powered cooling fans. Michelangelo: Living room with fireplace and fold out double bed, kitchen, bathroom and double bedroom – to which a single bed may be added. Giotto: Kitchen, dining room, living room with fireplace, 2 double bedrooms each with own sink, bathroom with shower. Single beds may be added to the bedrooms. Donatello: Foyer, kitchen, two double bedrooms (single beds may be added to them), 1 bathroom. The 3 independent apartments can be connected if requested. The villa sleeps 17 guests.

SERVICES: Renting bikes is possible at the Villa Monastero. Swimming pool overlooking scenery. Cookery course is available for those who are interested: This takes place in a nearby villa, lessons given by a local woman, recipes learnt are of typical Tuscan cuisine. Concierge service is included, for reservation taking and to help guests with their holiday excursions. Free internet access available. Horseback riding is possible just 20 min away. Golf course is 40 min away (www.golfugolino.it) Tennis facilities 10 mins away. Italian lessons can be given here, upon request. Reasonably priced tours are organised by local guides to museums and surrounding towns. Tour groups can be any size and transportation costs and entrance are all inclusive. During harvest months of September and October, grape picking activities are organised as well as homemade meals prepared by local farmers with their own fresh and natural ingredients. Local chef will prepare tasty home cooked meals upon request – special prices arranged.

Holiday accommodation Tuscany - WHERE WE ARE: Distances from the villa: Florence - 18km. Arezzo - 60km. Rome - 300km. Siena - 90km. San Gimignano - 75km. Pisa - 120km. Pontassieve Train Station - 6km.