Fanghetto,13th c. hilltown in Liguria, Italy, bordering France and Med. Sea
Location: Fanghetto, Liguria, Italy, Europe (Fanghetto is 45 min. from Nice Fr., 20 min. Menton / Riviera)
Accommodations: Villa, 2 Bedrooms + Convertible bed(s), 1 Bath (Sleeps 5)
Keywords: 13th c. Stone House in village
The tiny village of Fanghetto, built by monks in the 13th c.,is perched high on a sunny mountain slope above the Roya Valley, only minutes from the azure sea and rocky cliffs of both the Italian and French Rivieras.
This relatively unknown region in Italy has some of the most beautiful and scenic valleys, famous for its high rock outcroppings, gorges and the winding Roya River, with its rapids, waterfalls and picturesque 2000 year old Roman arched stone bridges.
This rustic village, relatively unchanged for the last hundred years, overlooks terraced olive trees and the Roya River. The private terrace offers magnificent panoramic views of the mountains of France,Italy, olive trees and the river below. Wintess the sounds of the rushing water, the birds waking in the early morning, the swallows darting in and out at eye level during twilight followed often by shooting stars in late evening.
This fully restored two level home by the architect / owner has all the original rustic charm with two foot thick walls, high arched plaster ceilings and is now reborn to assure today’s high standards with marbled kitchen counters and marble bath. The Frette linens, luxurious towels, hotel lotions, firm beds, and tasteful antique furnishings provide for every comfort.
The two bedrooms on the first level,each have fabulous river and mountain views and communicate to the bath. Original stone steps lead up to the living room, kitchen, dining area and open terrace. A single day bed/sofa on this level provides comfortable sleeping for an extra guest.
Enjoy your morning cappuccino or lunch at home on the private, sun filled terrace. Read from our library of travel itineraries, guidebooks, cookbooks, browse our list of local restaurant recommendations, plan the next outing or meal, listen to music and relax on the terrace.
Only a 10 minute walk through the terraced olive trees down to the river you will enjoy the most refreshing and memorable swim ever. Lounge on the banks of a private sandy beach or on ancient large boulders. You will be forever captivated by the peace and solitude there among the sound of the rapids.
Fanghetto is truly a small, undiscovered, classic hill town with typical narrow pedestrian stepped streets. It enjoys few tourists and has remained seemingly untouched for hundreds of years as seen from the small passageways of cobbled streets. Parking is at the edge of the village but only a three minute easy walk to the house. Behind the stone walls reveal renovated homes of classic style, known and enjoyed by only a select few. It is simply the perfect getaway for those seeking privacy or a couple wishing the unique, unforgettable affordable honeymoon.
The ever popular Mediterranean beaches nearby include Pont S. Ludovico, Menton, St. Jean Cap Ferrat, Beuasoleil, and Ville Franche, are all within a half hour's drive of Fanghetto.
World renowned restaurants in Monte Carlo and along the French Corniches, including the lofty and celebrated village of Eze, offer both exquisite meals and the “best” view in the South of France from the terrace of La Chevre d’Or. The very popular outdoor Friday market in Ventimiglia will provide the freshest of ingredients for a simple, yet unforgettable meal on your own terrace at home,should you prefer. The daily market in Menton, the Monday market at the "marche aux puces", or flea market in Nice, filled with antiques & brocante are not to be missed.
The village is located on the border of France and Italy, with your choice in either country for shopping, visiting the museums of Menton, Nice, St. Paul de Vance, or dining in the numerous cafes of SanRemo or Bordighera. At the end of the day’s excursions, the tranquil terrace in Fanghetto awaits your return. The numerous ancient hill towns in both countries offer charming cafes, family owned shops, excellent home grown produce, and friendly residents. Entire day excursions are easily planned to Cannes, St. Tropez to the East or San Remo, Santa Margherita, Genoa, Porto Fino, Lucca or the Cinque Terre to the Southwest.
TIP: You will find flights typically are more frequent and less expensive from the USA to Nice, France, 35 miles away, and car rentals a far better value than renting in Italy.
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Washer
- Linens Provided
- Off Street Parking : Ample free parking is only 2-3 minute walk from your home, as the streets are narrow and restricted of cars.
- Beds
- Queen Bed
- Double Bed
- Twin/Single Bed
- Entertainment
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Music Library : Many classical / opera and popular C.D's available.
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen
- Cooking Utensils Provided
- Refrigerator
- Outdoor Features
- Balcony : Table seating for six with sun umbrella to enjoy panoramic view of valley - mountains beyond.
- View/Location
- Mountain View : Magnificent Panoramic view of olive trees, mountains, river
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Not Suitable for Children : Due to low stone seating wall on terrace w/ 12 foot drop off to terrace below, we do not recommend children under the age of 5 be on the terrace unattended.
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities
- Rafting
- Hiking
- Rock Climbing
- Restaurants
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Antiquing
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
May-Oct .. $1250/week.
Apr&Nov .. $1050/week.
Dec-Mar .. Closed. Note / we have a 4 day minimal rental period @ 200.00 / night
Discounts 5% for two week rental, 10% on three week rentals or more of total rate.
One time Houskeeping charge of $140. is added to your total rental
Additional nights available at $165. each after the first week.
Personal checks accepted in dollars or euro as well as major credit cards.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
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Credit Cards Accepted:
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Owner's Profile
Owner Description
Year Purchased: 1991
As a retired architect, now living in West Palm Beach, Fl., I was the guest of a client in this ancient Italian hilltown. He had discovered Fanghetto over 60 years ago. The charm of the stone architecture of these rustic houses, their unique location on the border of Italy and France perched on a sunny mountain side overlooking olive trees and the Roia River below were simply unforgettable.
Coupled with the fabulous choices of local cuisine nearby, anything we put on the table in this rustic setting tasted like gourmet dining. Residing there one month of every year now for over 20 years
has provided life changing memories and each year we have created new ones.
Why the Owner Chose Fanghetto
Fanghetto is well lcoated for quiet and simplicity but within 45 minutes of Nice, Monacco, San Remo, and numerous hilltowns of both France and Italy, all with friendly cafes and restaurants, museums and siteseeing opportunities. The warm, long, sunny days of summer in this region, but with cool evenings provide the most comfortable weather all summer long. Hiking, swimming, walks to nearby hilltowns for lunch create numerous opportunities without needing a car every day.
The Unique Benefits of this Villa
Fanghetto also happens to be one of the most famous destinations in Italy or France for the new sport of "canyoning". There are local guides who escort one up into the mountains to propel down chutes and waterfalls. Sports enthusiasts from all parts of Europe come to this region for this popular sport. This is an extreme sport so we recommend a travel insurance policy for those daring souls who wish to try it.
Property Photos
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- Fanghetto,13th c. hilltown in Liguria, Italy, bordering France and Med. Sea - Liguria, Italy House Rental
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- Living Room w/ extra daybed / kitchen / Dining only steps from dining terrace. - Liguria, Italy House Rental
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- Master bedroom w/ two windows w/ views to Roia River below & mountains. - Liguria, Italy House Rental
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- Guest bedroom w/ double bed
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- View from terrace to river & olive trees
Traveler Reviews (8)
what a view!
Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 10/01/11
Review Submitted: 10/15/11
It's often the little touches that make the difference and Richard and Andre made us feel like we were in a five star hotel right from the moment we walked in. The unit is lovely,comfortable and has extraordinary views.And there is so much to do in the area as well. Most appreciated was the "welcome kit" that had detailed instructions on the "how tos" of all the appliances and recommendations on sightseeing and restaurants. One of the nicest properties we've stayed at!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers.
Ultimate Relaxation Retreat
Guest: tab
(Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/21/11
Review Submitted: 05/17/11
We've stayed in several self-catering accommodation around the world, but nothing like this. The attention to detail that Richard provides is above and beyond. He graciously shares not only his unique home, but his valuable knowledge of the Roia Valley--which made our stay even more enjoyable. His manager, Kim, is also very friendly and attentive. The apartment itself is cozy and well-appointed with excellent beds and linens. The bathroom is clean and modern. The kitchen is functional, organized, and well-stocked with basic necessities. The whole place has a distinct charm that transports you to another way of life. We spent many evenings noshing on local goodies and wine, watching the stars, reading and listening to 'Riviera Radio'--a sharp and much-needed contrast to our regular hectic lifestyle (good for the soul). We had spectacular weather and tackled a few hikes to nearby hilltowns. There is too much to write in one review! All in all, we would highly recommend this place to all our friends and family--and if we are ever lucky enough for time to return, we definitely will. Fanghetto is unforgettable.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, girls getaway.
Sheer Delight
Guest: Cdn traveller
(Canada)
Date of Stay: 08/30/10
Review Submitted: 12/05/10
Richard we had such a delightful time in your hilltop home in the fall. Your property is truly beautiful and there is not a single amenity missing. It is both stylish and comfortable. We had lovely meals on the terrace with all the proper glasses, linens and flatware. We found spectacular mountain vistas and other charming hill towns just moments away from Fanghetto. Your directions for our arrival and suggestions for dining out, sight seeing and shopping were helpful and appreciated. We discovered the lovely walking trails late in our stay and cannot wait to return to explore them further.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers.
Fanghetto Fantastic Find
Guest: Nani and Jack
(Corvallis, Oregon)
Date of Stay: 04/27/10
Review Submitted: 05/19/10
Our recent experience in Fanghetto was terrific from every aspect. The property is quite unusual in its setting and ambiance. Although the village goes back to the Romans the tasteful renovations and up-to-date amenities allow for a relaxing and comfortable stay. The owner provides excellent instructions and local support. Nearby locales are varied and interesting. Highly recommended for experienced travelers. Travelers should have a car to take full advantage of Riviera and nearby villages.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing, adventure seekers, age 55+.
Guest: Michael Story
(Chevy Chase, Md. )
Date of Stay: 09/25/09
Review Submitted: 09/25/09
Richard, this is quite the place you have.The location is ideal in that we were a short drive from either charming small French villages or the hustle and bustle of the Riviera. Your extensive guide was invaluable, from flying into Nice to restaurants, beaches, and just getting around. A terrific value which was every bit as advertised.
Recommended for:
Guest: N/A
(Chevy Chase, Md. )
Date of Stay: 07/05/09
Review Submitted: 07/05/09
Thank you for allowing us to share your fantastic villa in Fanghetto. We had a wonderful time and have not stopped thinking or speaking about it since we left. Our last night on the balcony under the moonlight and stars with candles ablaze and a bottle of champagne was the highlite of our holiday. Many thanks and we will remember it forever. John and Noreen
Recommended for:
Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 09/09/08
Review Submitted: 09/09/08
Richard – So sorry not to have written sooner to tell you how wonderful our time was in your beautiful house. We were absolutely blown away by the location and the apartment itself. The village….the river…the beds(!!!)….everything was just stunning. I have to tell you I use VRBO quite a lot and have never been so completely happy with the result. You obviously put a lot of thought into making it easy for people and it shows. The apartment works so well on every level – not to mention how lovely it is to be in. I thank you so much for that and for that gorgeous week in italy – we will never forget it. Take care and thanks again. Debra P.S. – we had the most unbelievable weather – 78-80 every day – not a cloud in the sky and dry, dry, dry. Coming from Virginia in august the idea of no humidity is heaven to me.
Recommended for:
Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/19/08
Review Submitted: 07/19/08
An amazing getaway and a wonderful place to come 'home' to after a day of sightseeing. Great location. The Roia River at the base of the village provided our teens with many hours of swimming and sunning. Richard's many helpful restaurant and sightseeing suggestions were invaluable. To return some day is a given.
Recommended for:
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #170054
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