Near Siena, Tuscany
Property 5431
14 Guests
7 Bedrooms
5 Bathrooms
600 square meters indoor
2 Acres outdoor
Casale di Larniano sits among the pristine rolling hills of the Crete Senesi, on the edge of Chianti. This is a magical and inviting corner of storied Tuscany and has become among the most popular destinations for those seeking a tranquil holiday refuge within easy driving of the region's major points of interest. Siena is only 10 minutes away, providing a wealth of opportunities for cultural excursions, shopping and dining. Florence is one hour door to door by your own or a chauffeured car or minibus, a relaxing and hassle-free alternative. The numerous vineyards and picturesque hill towns of Chianti are easily reached on beautiful winding country roads best enjoyed at the slow pace so highly recommended for this kind of country vacation. Drive to Monte Oliveto, Montepulciano or Pienza. Explore Volterra, Lucca or Arezzo. None of these numerous choices will demand much more than an hour travel -- many take less. The options will in all likelihood outnumber the days of your vacation. Promise yourself to return.
Casale di Larniano is a true 'podere', or farmhouse, in this case dating from the 17th century. It is built on a rise surrounded by the undulating fields and narrow copses of this ancient land. The views in each direction are truly exceptional; characteristic, dynamic and framed in each window like a picture. Surrounded by 100 hectares of woods, fields and vineyards, all belonging to the owner, you can feel completely free to wander and explore. The estate provides a complete and natural setting for a vacation of absolute relaxation and enrichment. It has been carefully designed for groups of friends and families seeking a stylish and characteristic home from which to discover Tuscany, without sacrificing the ambiance and charm of an antique farmhouse.
The gravel drive is bordered by a high privet hedge and a deep bed of roses, with a line of mature cypress trees defining the curve of the hill as it rises to the lawns and informal courtyard immediately surrounding the house. More roses climb the rustic stone facade of the house. There is rosemary, lavender and broome along the edges of the yard, which has intentionally been left in a somewhat natural state, as is appropriate to the house. At the north edge of the lawn sits the 'fienile,' where hay and grain was stored and which now conceals the car park for 5 vehicles. The spreading fig tree at the corner is lush with sweet ripe fruit beginning in early August. Rough stairs through a gentle, sloping lawn descend from the house to the pool (15 x 7.5 meters), set in a particularly peaceful and tranquil spot full of sun and offering unblemished, panoramic views of the countryside. There is an outdoor shower (cold water only) for rinsing off, and plenty of outdoor furniture to use as you like in sun or under a broad straw pergola. Furnished with table and chairs, the pergola is a shady spot for lunch or an outdoor living room. The pool is at a safe distance from the house, with a shallow end for small children, and an adjacent lawn for playing ball and running around. You are free to wander as you like down the quiet lanes and through the fields.
Around the perimeter of the house, the owner has added functional outdoor spaces to enhance the enjoyment of the property. Along the south facade is a long barbecue and a working forno, for those who want to try their hand at pizza. Adjacent is a small stable, with half-height swinging doors, which has been set for a casual outdoor living space with cushioned benches and low tables. For children, this is a particularly charming space, perfectly arranged for a cool diversion at drawing or reading out of the sun. Just off double doors to the kitchen is a very spacious and high-ceilinged "pergolato" - enclosed by glass for dining together throughout the year. A round stone table accommodates 16 under big, handsome lamps. There are large potted plants and flowers and a floor-to-ceiling curtain which can be closed to shield from sun. In the afternoon, the slanting light comes in through the 'trafolato' or open brick work, to make dancing patterns on the wall.
Casale di Larniano is one of several homes to be brought to life by an owner of singular talent in creating open and inviting spaces which feel both luxurious and comfortable. Here she has created a home full of light and style and beauty. The textures are rich, the colors soothing, the materials natural and of the best quality. She has brought together all the elements for a rejuvenation of the spirit and soul. Through all this, the architectural integrity of the house has been enhanced. Beamed ceilings have been restored on both levels, the upper floor enjoying particularly high ceilings which help keep the house cool in summer. The owner has chosen a handsome beige/white stone tile, which beautifully complements the various tones of wood, cotta and travertine found throughout the house, knowing she can never match the original, handmade cotta floors the farmers had laid upstairs. The color palette throughout the house is a soothing ivory and beige with touches of green, gold and russet.
The layout of the property makes it ideal for a range of group configurations. Up to five couples can be offered equivalent accommodations. Those traveling with children can be divided into two family 'suites' each comprising a king bed plus a twin bedded room, sharing a bath but having privacy from other guests. Please inquire early for Casale di Larniano as this property has a long list of dedicated guests who book regularly for long periods.
Price information available upon request.
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