Ground Floor: Entrance hall (wood burning stove). Kitchen (oven, microwave, dishwasher). Dining room. WiFi. Central heating throughout the house (payable locally). First Floor: Access to exterior stairs. Living room (DVD, CD). Twin bedroom. Double bedroom. Bathroom. Shower room. Steep open wooden stairs to... Second Floor: (low ceiling) Double bedroom (A/C). Outside: Terraced gardens. Shaded eating area. Built-in barbecue and wood oven. Laundry room (washing machine). Private parking. Private irregular shaped swimming pool (8m x 4m at widest point) with Roman steps.
Secreted among the forested hills along the Tuscany-Umbria border, this carefully restored stone house is a place to completely unwind surrounded by nature. Originally a farmhouse, complete with the traditional olive terraces, Grillo was also used at one time for drying the grapes used to make the local 'vin santo'. Today, it has been transformed into a charming property where the closest you will probably get to work is sipping a glass of the deliciously sweet wine on one of the many terraces.
From the upper terrace, enjoy treetop views, whilst the ground level is home to the stone paved outdoor dining area, complete with a vine draped pergola. Stone steps lead down to the pool terrace, where the pool has been specially designed to fit the hillside space.
Inside, the interior retains an authentic country feel, with thick hewn wood beams, paved floors and locally crafted doors finished with wrought iron handles, all set against a backdrop of white walls. Two of the bedrooms are on the first floor, with the third to be found in the eaves, accessed by wooden ladder type stairs.
This is truly a tranquil hideaway, a place to appreciate the wonderful countryside. From Grillo, head back up to the country road. Turn left to eventually arrive in the fabulous town of Cortona (25km), taking in stunning vistas along the way. Turn right to head down into the valley and the tiny village of San Leo Bastia (15 minute drive), with its local bar (with shop attached) and a rustic pizzeria. Continue along the valley to reach Umbertide (20km) for more amenities. Take a day or two as well to explore lesser known towns such as Città di Castello (40 minutes) and Sansepolcro (50 minutes), interesting and beautiful places with a lived in charm.
Internet provision is via a satellite connection.
Please note: the price shown does not include a per person tourist tax (payable locally). Children under 12 are exempt. €8 per person.
