This wonderful country property is situated near the ancient town of Castelfiorentino, on the Francigen Route, once the main road from Rome to France. From its hillside position it has wonderful views over the surrounding countryside. Steeped in history, its origins date back to the 13th century when a powerful Longobard clan from the Val d'Elsa, the Conti Alberti di Certaldo, chose this as the site for their castle. The Alberti family owned and lived here, later transforming it into an elegant country mansion, until the 17th century. Traces of the original 13th century fortified castle are still discernible in the square brick tower and the defensive walls alongside the villa. Recently the castle has been completely restored, retaining all the charm and uniqueness of the historical building and, at the same time, creating a welcoming and luxurious home.
Outside the villa is a lawned garden and terraces, including an outdoor dining area, from where the views can be enjoyed, as far as the town of San Gimignano, in the distance. On a lower level is a swimming pool (10 x 5m), accessed by a staircase and surrounded by a lawn and an arcaded loggia. Behind this is a shower and a fridge. The Limonaia has been converted into a casual sitting room, with six arched windows, offering sweeping views over the countryside, and with a breathtaking roof terrace. Within the grounds there is also a 13th century chapel, dedicated to Saint Bartholomew, restored in the 18th century.
The accommodation is in the main castle and the interiors are incredibly spacious and sumptuously decorated and furnished. An annex, a medieval tower and part of the original castle, alongside the villa, has independent access. This property offers an opportunity to indulge in the atmosphere of a grand Tuscan villa while enjoying the comfort of modern amenities. The bedrooms have air conditioning and there are jacuzzi tubs in four of the bathrooms. Further amenities include satellite TV, VCR, DVD, fax, internet access, a baby cot and a barbecue. Continental breakfast is included every morning and is available from 0830 -midday, and a welcome dinner is also included. Telephone and heating costs are charged extra, as is electricity if consumption is in excess of 300 kws.
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Ground Floor
Large reception room with fireplace and marble staircase leading to the first floor. Spacious and fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher. Guest WC. Formal dining room, opening to a terrace. Living room with fireplace, reading alcove with TV and computer with broadband line and fax. Double bedroom with en-suite bathroom with Jacuzzi bath.
First Floor
Double bedroom with en-suite bathroom with shower and Jacuzzi bath. 2 twin bedrooms, both with bathrooms, one with shower and bath and the other with shower only. Double bedroom with balcony. Adjacent bathroom with shower and Jacuzzi bath. Laundry. Second staircase leading down to the ground floor.
Tower (with independent access)
Living room with stairs leading up to a double bedroom with 4-poster bed and en-suite bathroom (shower). Stairas up to a fabulous roof terrace.
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