Location: Barberino Val d'Elsa, Firenze (Florence) Province, Tuscany, Italy, Europe (26 kms from Florence)
Accommodations: Condo, 2 Bedrooms + No additional sleeping rooms avail, 1 Bath (Sleeps 5)
Keywords: Condominium
This enchanting two-bedroom apartment was featured in an architectural design magazine some years back. Situated on the second floor (top floor) of an ancient palazzo in the medieval hamlet of Barberino Val D'Elsa, it sits 30 minutes from Florence on the Cassia Route heading toward Siena. Totally restored in the 1990's, the owners, an American woman and her Florentine husband, were faithful in preserving the apartment's medieval charm. A collection of southeast Asian art and Tuscan antiques makes for a cosy living area for reading and conversing from the two comfortable couches and wicker rocking chair. A well appointed kitchen alcove is also part of this main living space, looking onto the dining room with it marble top table that comfortably seats six. Being I, the owner, am a Tuscan cooking instructor, everything one needs can be found in my Carrara marble and Venetian stuccoed kitchen. Just off the kitchen, down two steps, is the laundry closet, complete with washing maching. And just passed the closet is the Italian tiled bathroom with its large, built-it shower stall. A bedroom with two single beds and a sofa/bed is located on this floor also. The bedroom's arched window offers extensive, enchanting views of the Tuscan countryside with its patchwork vineyards and silvery olive groves. The master bedroom, located up stairs, has an antique queen size bed, a comfortable couch and a t.v. with satellite disk. The private rooftop terrace off the master bedroom, with its bistro table and chairs, offers even more magical views. Especially those of Tuscan sunsets, making for the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing with a glass of Chianti wine. The panoramic view from the bifora window on the adjacent wall of the master bedroom makes this room a painter's delight. It's the same view, only one floor higher, than that of the downstairs bedroom
Normally guests choosing to vacation in our flat are people who enjoy mingling with the locals. And the charming wine bar 'Canto di Baccio' in the square is the perfect spot to do just that. But the choice of village life means giving up one creature comfort: lounging around a countryside pool. So, we, the owners, have arranged for our guests to be able to take a dip in a nearby private pool on their way home from a day of sightseeing. So, for a small fee (a daily pass), guests can take advantage of this comfort before returning home to watch the sun set over the hills and valleys of Tuscany from the rooftop terrace. So just ask owner about particulars and toss those swimsuits in the car before heading out to explore the nearby medieval hamlets of Certaldo Alto, San Gimignano, Volterra, Siena, and the list goes on.
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Air Conditioning
- Linens Provided
- Washer
- Off Street Parking : there are two parking lots, free of charge, just outside the gothic archway leading into the hamlet. Both are a two minute stroll from the property.
- Beds
- Queen Bed
- Twin/Single Bed (2)
- Convertible Bed : single sofa chair/bed
- Crib : portable camping style crib
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV
- CD Player
- Stereo System
- Shared Pool : Not far from the village I have arranged for guests to be able to spend a relaxing afternoon poolside for a token entrance fee. The pool is part of a private agritourism.
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen
- Cooking Utensils Provided
- Refrigerator
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
- Catering Available : Catered Dinners upon request. Owner of the property is the author of the book: Tuscan Life - Food Tales and Recipes available on www.lulu.com. Tuscan cooking courses or private dinners, either up at the property or in Florence, can also be arranged. Ask Cindy for details.
- Outdoor Features
- Charcoal BBQ Grill
- Deck/Patio : This small roof top patio, with its breathtaking views, bistrot table and chairs, is a lovely spot to watch the sun set over Tuscany while enjoying a glass of Chianti wine.
- View/Location
- Monument View : Extensive views of neighboring medieval hamlets resting on knolls, Renaissance abbeys farmhouses ( not to mention San Gimignano - Tuscany's OZ ) can all be admired from the rooftop terrace.
- Communications
- Telephone
- Broadband Internet : A small computer with a broadband key is available for use. For those who wish to bring their own computer, there is free internet service at the cafe Bistro just across the cobblestone lane from the flat.
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities
- Shopping
- Swimming
- Biking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Antiquing
- Horseback Riding
- Hot Air Ballooning
- Hiking
- Restaurants
- Other Activities
- all nearby
Rate Details (In Euros)
€850/week (additional €8/day for heating from November 1st through April 1st)
€125/night (3 night minimum) Final cleaning fee of 25.00 euro on 3-4 night stays.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Owner's Profile
Owner Description
Year Purchased: 1988
When my husband and I took on the immense job of restoring our property back in the eighties it quickly became my third child. So much so that upon its completion in 1992 I insisted we move in rather than use it as our second home. And we did just that. Then, after four years of hamlet life, work took us to Florence where we set up our permanent residence. But although we spent weekends in our country gem, I felt we should be sharing it with others. It was too priceless to keep closed up, I thought. Thus, I decided to open our home to those, like me, who want to experience, if only for a week or so, what living in a Tuscan hamlet is truly all about.
Being a Tuscan cooking instructor and author of the book, Tuscan Life - Food Tales & Recipes, I made sure my small kitchen had everything needed to prepare savory Tuscan dishes. In fact, for those interested, I conduct hands-on courses not only in the property but also in our penthouse apartment overlooking the monumental city of Florence. Catered dinners are also a possiblity. Just email and I will send the link to my site for information regarding my courses. My book is available over the internet or in a select group of bookstores in Florence.
Why the Owner Chose Barberino Val d'Elsa
Upon relocating to Italy from California in the late 70's, I happened upon Barberino on a Sunday drive. I immediately knew I wanted a piece of that paradise as soon as I saw it. It took my Florentine husband and me nearly 10 years of waiting before a small property came up for sale. It took us another 2 years of restoration but slowly (as it is in Italy) we finished our little gem, making my dream come true.
The Unique Benefits of this Condo
Panoramic views, mingling with the locals and excellent country fare, coupled with the tranquility of hamlet life is what Barberino offers.
Property Photos
-
- Dining area with staircase leading up to masterbedroom - Barberino Val D'Elsa, Tuscany, Italy Accommodation Rental
-
- Kitchen alcove with terrace above - Barberino Val D'Elsa, Tuscany, Italy Accommodation Rental
-
- Master bedroom with door opening onto terrace - Barberino Val D'Elsa, Tuscany, Italy Accommodation Rental
-
- View from bifora window in the master bedroom
-
- Downstairs bedroom with extensive panoramic view onto the countryside as well
-
- Bathroom opposite downstair bedroom
-
- Entrance into the quaint medieval hamlet. Property is on this street.
Traveler Reviews (7)
Spectacular!
Guest: Mark
(Edmonton, Alberta, Canada)
Date of Stay: 07/25/11
Review Submitted: 10/26/11
Our family [My wife, myself and 2 children] stayed in Barberino Val d'Elsa in July 2011. We were met by Cindy, who was amazing and helpful. The apartment was incredible and we spent hours on the balcony reading, drinking wine, and eating. The neighborhood was very friendly and the location allowed us to travel by car to Florence, Siena, and even Venice. We have many pictures of the vineyards, orchards, farms and breathtaking skies in the Chianti region. A bonus was swimming at a nearby agriturismo, which was arranged by Cindy. Thanks again for everything!!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers.
Amazing Cultural Experience
Guest: Bonnie
(Pleasanton CA USA)
Date of Stay: 10/24/09
Review Submitted: 03/11/11
We had the pleasure of spending a week in Barberino during the olive harvest season of 2009. We were four women traveling by car and the apartment was perfect for our home base. I was fortunate to find this location through a mutual friend of the owners' in California and then lucky to travel with my mother, aunt and adult daughter. What an incredible trip! The location of the apartment is so convenient to all areas of Tuscany-Florence, Siena, several of the other famed "walled villages" and we even drove to Cinque Terra for the day. The history of the hamlet and the gorgeous apartment is overwhelming-The opportunity to spend time there is something we'll never forget. The local people we met could not have been warmer and more helpful. As soon as they knew we were staying at the apartment they became our new friends! In the village itself you'll find everything you need-groceries, wine, meat, church, even a hair salon. The owner came and taught a cooking class-we learned all the ingredients and preparations for a traditional Italian dinner I have read Cindy's book, loved all that was familiar and can't wait to try what is new. I intend to return to Barberino some day-My vacation time will be based on the availability of this wonderful apartment.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with young children, girls getaway, adventure seekers, families with teenagers, age 55+.
Perfect for family
Guest: Joe
(New Orleans, USA)
Date of Stay: 06/06/10
Review Submitted: 06/27/10
We travelled to Tuscany with our three kids (ages 7, 5 and 8 months (really)) and the apartment was perfect for us. It was centrally located and made taking day trips throughout Tuscany very easy. The town of Barberino was very quaint and we very much enjoyed the local restaurants. The apartment is spacious, well maintained, and has everything that you would need. Cindy and her husband are extremely friendly and gracious hosts. I would highly recommend this apartment.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, romantic getaway, families with young children, adventure seekers, age 55+.
Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 07/27/07
Review Submitted: 07/27/07
This is the most wonderful apartment. It is beautiful and wonderfully located, our group of 5 had plenty of space and really did not want to leave. We loved everything about it. thanks
Recommended for:
Guest: Roberta Watts
(-)
Date of Stay: 04/02/07
Review Submitted: 04/02/07
What a charming place. Our family of 4 fit very comfortably here. The views from our window and terrace were entrancing, the antique furnishings well maintained and interesting, and the kitchen was small but perfect--this is a vacation afterall! Cindy and her husband are thoughtful hosts, with plenty of guides (maps/books) on hand for the traveller. Cindy was very reliable, answered her phone (not all owners are so conscientious!)gave us great directions and pointers about where to go for dinner, Olive oil, daytrips.... She insisted that we call her if we had any questions, so we did! The nearby bakery was great, a very sweet lady runs that. A small park at the end of town is perfect for throwing the baseball, and the Church bells, being a few rooftops away, give the visitor a grand reveille in the morning! We loved it. Thanks to Cindy for sharing her home and providing us with a truely memorable venue from which we could explore Florence (20+ minutes away) and the wine country (all around us!)
Recommended for:
Guest: M. Charlton
(Portland Oregon)
Date of Stay: 10/15/06
Review Submitted: 10/15/06
This apartment in Barberino is well worth renting. We were very pleased with the size (perfect for two couples) and location. The location of Barberino makes day trips to explore the hill towns of Tuscany very easy. The town of Barberino is quiet and the people friendly.
Recommended for:
Guest: N/A
(-)
Date of Stay: 10/14/06
Review Submitted: 10/14/06
I invite all of my 'future guests' to read the guest books in the flat as they are very helpful and contain a wealth of information for those who wish to have a real Tuscan experience. Guests over the years have added restaurant suggestions, parking suggestions, driving routes etc. etc.. I couldn't have put together a more extensive information package myself. I truly thank all of my previous guests who have contributed to these books and who have been so positive in their comments of my property and my family. We have enjoyed meeting each and every one of you and have been delighted to share our knowledge and love of Tuscany with you all. We will continue to do so in the upcoming 2007 year.
Recommended for:
First (7) of (7). Write a Review
Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #19410
There have been visitors to this page since the counter was
last reset in .
This listing was first published here in 2002.
Date last modified - Tuesday, January 24, 2012
