Enza is an Italian born midwife who returned to Florence from the United Kingdom in the late 1980s. Her husband Paolo is a Florentine photographer and together they live in one wing of the main house with their two children enjoying a traditional Italian family lifestyle.


During Summer Enza takes advantage of the home grown produce to create preserves and sauces and of course, in Autumn, everyone helps with producing Olive Oil from the groves surrounding their house.

In 1998 Paolo and Enza Carlini fell in love with a large farmhouse set on 14 acres of land, in a beautiful position above the 13th century town of Figline Valdarno with stunning views of the Tuscan countryside.

They slowly and carefully restored the house preserving the original character and charm, deciding to name the property after the numerous Mulberry trees that surround the house. The grounds offer privacy and plenty of opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the italian countryside with enjoyable walks through fields and wooded copse. However you are still only 10 minutes from the centre of Figline, and it's charming Piazza, modern amenities and frequent rail service to both Florence and Rome.

Though peaceful and rural, I Gelsi is within easy reach of many of the Medieval towns and cities of Tuscany and makes a superb base for touring this wonderful region.

I Gelsi boasts a large infinity pool which is positioned so that the wonderful view of the surrounding countryside can be enjoyed in sunshine from early in the morning to sunset.

A substantial brick built, rustic barbecue, located away from the apartments to prevent smoke nuisance, is available for everyone to use and perhaps try out "Bistecca alla Fiorentina".