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This enchanting, two-bedroom apartment was featured in an architectural design magazine. Situated on the second floor (top floor) of an ancient palazzo in the medieval hamlet of Barberino Val D'Elsa, it lies 30 minutes from Florence and 35 minutes from Siena,in the western Chianti region of Tuscany.
The apartment was totally refurbished in the 1990's. We, the owners (an American woman and her Florentine husband) were faithful in preserving the flat's medieval charm. Our collection of south east Asian artwork, antiques and contemporty pieces makes for what we feel a very cosy and well appointed apartment. The Italian tiled bathroom has a large shower stall as opposed to a bath tub. The master bedroom, located up stairs, has an antique queen size bed; very comfortable I might add. The private rooftop terrace off the master bedroom is a magical spot to enjoy a glass of Chianti wine while watching the sun set over the Tuscan countryside. The views from this cosy terrace are truly enchanting. The views from the bifora window in the master bedroom as well as those in the downstairs double bedroom are a painter's delight. There are two single beds and a convertible armchair/bed in the down stairs bedroom. The living room/dining room with its open alcove kitchen area is a great central room to dine and converse. It is roomy and well appointed. The fully-equipped kitchen blends in well with its Carrara marble and Venetian stucco. There is a cd player in the living room and cable t.v. in the master bedroom up stairs. Being I am a Tuscan hands-on cooking instructor, the kitchen has everything one needs to prepare a truly savoury Tuscan meal. For those interested, I conduct private cooking courses in Florence and in my rental property upon request. I have lived in Italy for 29 years and greatly enjoy sharing the cooking secrets of this simple yet exquisitely fresh cuisine with those who share my passion for good food. Catered arrival and/or departure dinners may also be requested. Feel free to email with inquiries.
Normally, guests choosing our flat are typically people who wish to mingle with the locals and experience Tuscan life in a medieval village rather than in a villa situation in the countryside and away from authentic Italian life. This means giving up the possibility of having a swimming pool on the property. For this reason, we have made arrangements with a good friend who owns an exclusive country inn just a few kms from the medieval hamlet. Our guests may to use this pool for a daily fee of 5.00 euro per person. We are happy to be able to offer our guests the possibility of truly experiencing Tuscan village life without having to give up this 'creature comfort' (i.e. lounging around a poolside in the Tuscan countryside after a long day of sightseeing).
Barberino Val D'Elsa is a well-kept medieval hamlet with very hospitable locals. The village was honored nationally in 2006 by the Touring Club of Italy. It was bestowed with the third place hospitality award for villages in Italy. |
