Podere delle Grazie

SAN CASCIANO

At a glance

Here is very a beautiful, private estate covering 12-hectares (30-acres) tucked away in Chianti, the heart of Tuscany, between Florence and Siena, half way between Montespertoli and San Casciano, just 30 minutes from Florence.

It offers an atmosphere of simple elegance, very essential in its furnishings, with contrasting touches of opulence such as chandeliers and draped tester beds. The ultimate in privacy and independence, both the exterior and interiors of this fine old farmhouse (ex- casa colonica) have been immaculately restored to a very high standard by its decorator owner. Every detail of the restoration has been done with total respect for nature and for Tuscan heritage.

The house is beautifully decorated throughout with terracotta floors, whitewashed walls and beamed ceilings. The bedrooms are attractively furnished with four poster beds and all enjoy a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside. Each of the six bedrooms is adjoined by its private bathroom graciously decorated with old mirror frames and antique lamps. The upper bedrooms all have air-conditioning, combining charm and tradition with contemporary comfort.

The living areas are colourful and furnished with high-quality fabrics, antiques, fine custom linens and table ware. The large state-of-the-art kitchen leads onto a terrace. The loggia (pergola) overlooking the garden and the swimming pool keeps it cool in summer and provides shade for outdoor dining al fresco. The modern amenities include a fully equipped kitchen offering a gourmet gas range, oven, large refrigerator-freezer with ice maker. Other facilities are washing and drying machines, satellite television, remote-controlled gate entrance, phone, fax and HP computer colour printer.

The house is accessed by a 700 meters private road and surrounded by an extensive and well-tended garden that rolls gently downward from the house towards the swimming pool, which is situated among sloping green lawns and fruit trees.

Near the swimming pool (12 x 6 m) and around the garden and terraces, there is an abundance of outdoor furniture, teak pool furniture, wrought iron and rattan settees, benches and chairs, marble tables and sun umbrellas for shade.

 The property enjoys a spectacular view of a 10th century castle and a panorama of typical Chianti countryside with rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, cypresses and distant farmland. The domaine comprises 350 olive trees, over 100 walnut trees, a small river delineating its southern boundaries and several hectares of forest providing delicious shade in the summer.

I enjoyed this property enormously, for its spaces and the refined and elegant atmosphere. I would recommend it as ideal for an extended family or a group of friends looking for spacious accommodation, comfort, privacy and fabulous views. Even when occupied by 12 people, the house feels spacious yet cosy. It blends Tuscan charm with modern facilities and is very good value.

Amenities include swimming pool, two solariums with teak sunbeds, small tables, chairs and umbrellas, parking for 10 cars, air conditioning in every first floor bedroom, satellite television (400 stations in English, German, French, Italian, Swedish…), DVD reader, Sony HiFi audio set, telephone in many rooms, fax in study, microwave oven, two refrigerators with deep freezers, washing machine, dryer machine, ironing and garden equipment, large water reservoir for fire prevention. Fenced area outside the house within the 30 acres (12 hectares) private property.