Casa Michelangelo

Description

Chestnut forests, rolling hills and summer fields of sunflowers – it's no wonder this part of rural Tuscany has inspired some of the greatest artists over time including the renowned sculptor Michelangelo who was born just a few kilometres away.

Immerse yourself in the incredible landscapes of this captivating region during your stay at Casa Michelangelo, an inviting 3-bedroom abode with lovely views of woodland from the heated swimming pool. It's ideal for a small group of friends or family looking to get away from it all and experience tranquil Tuscany at its best. Inside you will find grand fireplaces, original floors, exposed stone walls and a traditional yet welcoming ambience. This pretty home is all about rustic simplicity alongside an air of romance across its three double bedrooms. Its warmth and authenticity are sure to enchant guests looking for a peaceful retreat.

Wander around the glorious grounds, dine on the terrace looking out towards the countryside and cool off in the swimming pool on warm summer days. If you can bear to leave your refuge then within a ten-minute drive you can be exploring the historic local village on the banks of the Tiber or visiting the birthplace of Michelangelo.

Art-lovers will also adore Sansepolcro with its museum featuring artwork by Piero della Francesca or be inspired by the beauty of Anghiari as you wander around its flower filled lanes taking in the mesmerising vistas from the town's medieval walls. The impressive city of Arezzo is also a great place to spend the day or head further afield to Emilia-Romagna, Umbria and Le Marche.

That said, you may prefer to gently relax your pace and discover the delights around you with wonderful walks and horse-riding through the forests, fishing, wind-surfing or canoeing in the lake and dining in agriturismi serving locally foraged mushrooms and chestnut dishes.

Whether you're a lover of Tuscan cuisine, an appreciator of the arts or just wanting to embrace the natural beauty of this region, there's no doubt that the Val Tiberina is the place of Italophiles' dreams.

#### Features
Villa Interiors

- Living area with traditional fireplace
- Dining area
- Kitchen, well-equipped with fridge, freezer, oven, toaster, coffee machine and kettle
- Bedroom with double bed
- Bedroom with double bed
- Bedroom with double bed (can be made as twin on request)
- 2 x shower rooms

Outside Grounds

- Heated swimming pool (4x7m, depth: 1.3m) open May to end-September. Pool heating on request
- Al-fresco dining area
- Grounds (one hectare) – terraced/sloping in parts
- Parking

Facilities

- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- Fireplaces
- Hairdryer
- Washing machine and dryer

#### Location
In the Upper Tiber Valley of eastern Tuscany, around an hour north of Arezzo, Casa Michelangelo enjoys a stunning and very rural location surrounded by hills and forests. As well as exploring the incredible landscapes of this part of Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, Umbria and even Le Marche are also within striking distance.

The local village, a ten-minute drive away, sits on the Tiber river and has a fascinating history which dates back as far as the Neolithic age. View some of the town's wonderful diaries from the past in its well-known museum and if you are staying in early September then look out for the historic festivities and palio that take place. There is a supermarket here as well as a handful of restaurants and other useful amenities.

The local birthplace of the great artist Michelangelo is also just over 7km away. Visit the house where he was born, his local church and also the Museum of Michelangelo with re-creations of some of his masterpieces. The village is also famous for its chestnut festival in October which attracts visitors from across the region and beyond.

Heading south, visit one of Tuscany's most beautiful towns, Anghiari (22km) and marvel at the palazzi and charming squares as you wander around its medieval lanes filled with summer flowers. The views from the 13th century walls are incredible as you look out towards the Tiber Valley – after all the road leading to the village is very steep!

Sansepolcro (21km) is another Tuscan gem with a wonderful civic museum filled with art, including pieces by Piero della Francesca, and a magnificent cathedral that dates back to the 9th century. The historic Palio della Balestra takes place in September, a crossbow tournament when locals dress up in medieval costumes – a grand annual event!

As well as visiting some of the enchanting villages and towns so close, you will also want to spend time appreciating the outstanding scenery of the Tiber Valley. Expect hills filled with chestnut trees, fields of summer sunflowers, olive groves and even some vineyards. Enjoy the regional cuisine in some of the excellent restaurants in the area – try specialities such as local mushrooms and of course chestnut-based dishes. If you are keen on fishing then head to Lago Montedoglio, an artificial lake which is perfect for walking, horse-riding, canoeing as well as angling (especially carp fishing). There are also horse-riding stables near the local village – a fantastic way to see the local landscapes.

Further afield, cross the border into Umbria with Perugia (86km) and Gubbio (85km) just over an hour away or spend the day in the enticing city of Urbino (94km), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arezzo (50km) is also waiting to be explored with its historic treasures and beautiful works of art or travel as far as Florence (120km) for a truly spectacular day out.