It’s difficult to find words to describe the incredible experience we had staying in this LOVELY apartment, but I’ll try. First, the location is wonderful;a town gate & free parking across the street;a reasonable 5-minute walk up to town & main piazza. The few steps to the front door, alone, will immediately charm you. Upon entry you immediately sense the loving care that goes into making this space one that makes you feel as if you are entering as cherished visitor into the family’s home as opposed to renter in a rental unit. The entire apartment is immaculate, well-equipped, renovated & decorated beautifully while maintaining signs of its ancient origins & has, as the “icing on the cake,” an incomparable view. The bed is incredibly comfortable, linens crisp & snug, closet sufficient to store our clothes. LOVED that we had the option of opening the French doors to the spectacular view yet could pull the screen down to safeguard against mosquitoes at night. There is a little terrace below the French doors where you can sit & enjoy the view while sipping on a glass of Prosecco. As beautiful & comfortable as this apt was, it is eclipsed by the warmth & cordiality of Vanna & Mirko who are the heart & soul of their lovely residences. I had corresponded with Mirko over a few months & had already felt as if I had known him always. Meeting beautiful Vanna seemed a natural extension of a friendship already launched. Mirko was kind enough to pick us up at the station, & Vanna was waiting to welcome us, literally with open arms, to 'Under the Tuscan Sun'. The highlight of our visit was spending an evening with them cooking, laughing, singing & creating a wealth of beautiful memories. Vanna’s home is charming & warm, and her & Mirko’s generosity of spirit creates an incomparable ambiance imparting a true flavor of genuine Tuscan hospitality. The apt’s proximity to Cortona proper is a great boon, there is so much to explore here, but it is also an excellent base from which to visit surrounding towns. Dardano’s & Bucaccia in Cortona, & Rist Masolino in Panicale stand out as our outstanding dining experiences, though we ate great food everywhere (1 major disappointment, Il Gozzoviglio). But in the end, our trip was made especially exceptional through the warmth and solicitude of this special mom and son combo. We can’t wait to return. Mille grazie Vanna e Mirko! Baci!