Villa Gelmini

Description

Offering blissful views over the Val di Chiana from its romantic, rural setting is Villa Gelmini. Two charming villas are separated by a swimming pool in a quiet corner of the Tuscan countryside, with a traditional village just a 15-minute walk away.

Many of the region's most historic and architecturally stunning towns and cities, such as Cortona, Arezzo and Siena, are easy to reach by car. And a short drive from the villa is the medieval town of Lucignano with its iconic labyrinth-like layout.

Villa Gelmini is the perfect retreat for up to six guests to enjoy quality time together, as well as to have private space to relax and unwind. The villas and the pretty grounds that surround them are nestled between fields and hedgerows that add to the traditional country atmosphere.

In contrast, both the two-bedroom villa and romantic one-bedroom villa are contemporary in style. Clean lines, luxurious ensuite bathrooms and a crisp, white finish are themes throughout. The living and dining spaces are lovely and bright and open out to either pool or garden-side terraces for al fresco drinks and meals. A fireplace in each living room ensures you stay warm and cosy on those cooler evenings.

And on hot days, there's nothing better than a refreshing dip in the pool at the heart of the classic herb and lavender walled garden. Immediately beyond this area are tree-dotted lawned gardens that offer dreamy strolls and wonderful views over the rolling countryside.

Walk from Villa Gelmini into the nearest village in just 15 minutes, passing through the landscapes that the gardens give you such unspoilt views of. You can also take in views towards the town of Cortona; reached by car in around 30 minutes. Discover the town's ancient past in the Etruscan Museum and Archaeological Park, then marvel at the Renaissance-era Palazzo del Popolo.

The villa is conveniently located around halfway between Arezzo and Siena. Arezzo is especially known for its beautiful religious buildings; with the hilltop cathedral, Basilica di San Francesco and the Basilica di San Domenico being just a few highlights. And the impressive medieval brick buildings in Siena's UNESCO World Heritage Site historic centre are just one of the many features of this popular city.

#### Features
Two-Bedroom Villa Interiors
Ground Floor

- Kitchen/dining space with oven, dishwasher, freezer, table and chairs, doors to terrace with seating and garden
- Bedroom with double bed, ensuite bathroom
- Bedroom with double bed, ensuite bathroom

Lower Floor

- Living room with sofa, armchair, beanbag, fireplace, satellite TV, DVD player, stereo, doors to pool terrace

One-Bedroom Villa Interiors

Ground Floor

- Kitchenette with oven, dishwasher, dining table for four people, doors to terrace with seating and garden
- Bedroom with double bed, ensuite bathroom with sunken bath tub, shower over

First Floor

- Living room with sofa, fireplace, satellite TV, DVD player, stereo

Outside Grounds

- Swimming pool (12m x 6m, depth: 1.3m), open approximately April to mid-October
- Pool terrace with dining table for four guests, seating, sun loungers, parasols
- Garden with lawn, trees, plants
- Barbecue
- Parking space

Facilities

- Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning (in bedrooms of the two-bedroom villa only)
- Heating
- Villa mobile (usage payable locally)

#### Location
Villa Gelmini enjoys a lovely, peaceful setting within a valley overlooking the iconic countryside of the Val di Chiana. Walk through picture-postcard landscapes and reach the nearest village in around 15 minutes. The village has a typical Tuscan feel and has a small selection of amenities that include a bank, pharmacy, supermarket and restaurant.

Hilltop Lucignano is one of the most striking medieval towns in the area, with buildings set in concentric rings creating a labyrinth effect. Must-sees include the Church of San Francesco and the Museo Civico with its impressive art collection. Also visit the ruins of a Medici castle that lie just outside the town walls.

Around a 30-minute drive away is Cortona, with numerous historic sites of interest to tick off your sightseeing list. The Etruscan Museum is full of ancient artefacts that tell the town's story from its earliest days. There's also an Archaeological Park with sites that include city fortifications and remains of Roman roads. Palazzo del Popolo and the cathedral date back to the Renaissance era.

A beautiful place to pass a few hours is Lake Trasimeno Regional Park. Swim, enjoy long hikes through dramatic landscapes and relax with some bird watching. Also take a boat trip over to the islands Isola Maggiore and Isola Minore.

Slightly further afield is stunning Siena. An hour's drive will bring you to the city and its iconic structures, such as Pizza del Campo, the city hall and Torre del Mangia. Climb to the top of this tower for phenomenal views. Also visit Piazza del Duomo; home to the Piccolomini Library and a majestic cathedral.