The Lazy Oak
Panoramic Vacation Rental In Tuscany
ABOUT
Perched on a hillside above Valdarno area, enclosed between the lovely cities of Florence, Arezzo and Siena, this lovely farmhouse is surrounded by acres of olive groves and meadows, with beautiful views of the valley on one side and rolling farmlands on the other. The main house on two level has been fitted with air-conditioned bedrooms, new kitchen and bathrooms while retaining their old terracotta floors and beamed ceilings. A large dining loggia for al fresco meals enjoying beautiful views of the countryside. The infinity pool is set just a few steps from the house on a green terrace furnished with loungers. In the heart of the rural flavour of the Tuscan countryside, this area has much to offer anyone who enjoys good food and wine, interesting sightseeing and long rambles on foot.
ACCOMODATION
On two levels
Ground floor composed by large sitting room with suggestive fireplace. Kitchen with a dining table leading out under a large panoramic dining loggia facing the valley. Bathroom with shower.
First floor with 2 air conditioned bedrooms:
- Blue Room with a double bed (140x200cm) leading out to a large panoramic 80 m² terrace.
- Red Room with a round bed (200cm diameter).
Bathroom with jacuzzi, Little cozy studio.
Grounds
A lovely open garden of 1000 m² surrounded by farmlands and woods. The infinity pool, 12x 6m/39,4 x 19,7 feet, is set 20m from the main house. The pool will be at your exclusive usage.
Assistance
Assistance is provided locally by the property's exceptionally helpful caretaker, who resides in the adjacent guest house.
Facilities
Dashwasher. Built-in barbeque. Air conditioned bedrooms. Satellite TV [No Sky channels] with video/multi-regional DVD. Central heating. Working fireplace. Wireless internet connection.
Small appliances
Kettle. Hair dryer. Iron and ironing board. Baby cot available on request.
Pool details
The infinity pool, 12x 6m/39,4 x 19,7 feet, has a depth of 1.50-2.60m/4,9-8,5 feet and steps for entry/exit. Outdoor shower.
Pets
Dogs are not allowed.
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GALLERY
THINGS TO DO NEARBY
Origins in the Hills outside of Florence
Most definitely of Etruscan origin, the town was originally called just "Loro" which means laurel plants/trees. The word Ciuffenna, the name of the river that cuts the town in two and which provided power for the many mills that dot the hillside, was added much later in 1862.
There are also signs, even today, that the Romans were influential in the area. Just think of the road you used to arrive, the Cassia Vetus, known today as via Setteponti (the road of the seven bridges). This was an important thoroughfare which connected the Roman cities of Fiesole and Arezzo.
San Pietro or Pieve di Gropina
One of the most interesting examples of Romanesque architecture in Tuscany, the church dates back to the year one thousand.
Though the church is rich in artwork, perhaps the best way to truly appreciate everything is in silence, walking down the central nave and admiring the columns, the pulpit, and the many carvings. You will note that the church presents a rather stark decor - intentionally. The church was there for prayer and meditation and architects made sure that the interiors encourage tranquility and peace.
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Il Mulino (the water mill)
This is one of the oldest working water mills in Tuscany and is still in use today to grind chestnuts into flour - a typical product of the area. It is believed that it was built around the year 1100 along the banks of the river Ciuffenna, what makes it especially unique is that it was in the city center.
Wine Tasting (Il Borro)
Famous not just for its wines, but also the stunning setting, the vineyards owned by Ferragamo offer a rather unique experience. The visit costs 20 Euro weekdays/25 Euros weekends and includes a video detailing the history of the farm, a visit to the prestigious art exhibition including pieces by Monet and Picasso, and a visit of the two cantinas (both the antique & modern) with a tasting of a 6 wines/liquors (a white, 3 red, a vin santo & a grappa). Every day there are two time slots for a visit: one at 11 am and another at 3 pm, but it is best to call and reserve your spot.
(Official webisite: https://www.ilborro.it/en/index)
Discover the Secrets of Chianti Classico
Only a few regions can offer such a beautiful and rich panorama as Chianti Classico: green hills sketched by miles and miles of vineyards and olive groves, ancient walled villages, panoramic curvy roads and historic castles and fortresses. Chianti Classico spreads from Florence to Siena and includes the municipalities of Greve, Panzano, Radda, Gaiole, Castellina and Castelnuovo Berardenga.
You can include visits on the market days or explore one of the many museums and churches along the way. Be sure to check out the local events, there just might be something special that catches your eye - like wine festivals, sagras (food parties), markets and seasonal celebrations.
Via Setteponti: An Itinerary
By Car or Motorcycle, you will love the scenery
The via Setteponti follows the traces of what was once the Etruscan and Roman routes connecting two major points of interest: Florence and Arezzo. This itinerary makes an exciting and panoramic road trip for those looking to test the curves of the country roads and inhale a bit of fresh Tuscan air while checking out the classic views over vineyards, small towns and olive groves. Once known as Cassia Vetus, the via Setteponti (Seven Bridges Road) is thus named because it spans the flowing streams and rivers from the Pratomagno heights at least seven times. This is a road to take at a leisurely pace, stopping often and indulging in a bit of unplanned sightseeing especially with the numerous parish churches, olive groves and inviting vineyards.
Firenze
Famous for the immense political and economic power it wielded during the rule of the Medici Dynasty, Florence offered the world a stage for great artistic masters such as Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Leonardo da Vinci and Galileo. However, Florence has its roots long before, when it rose and fell several times in the hands of the Romans, the lombardic tribe and others. Each successive age brought new architecture, art and creativity which are still evident in the streets, the many museums, churches, monuments and even the everyday life of this marvelous city. Florence offers so many unique experiences and events that it will create memories which will live with you long after your holidays in Tuscany are over.
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Siena
Siena is likely Italy's loveliest medieval city, and a trip worth making even if you are in Tuscany for just a few days. Siena's heart is its central piazza known as Il Campo, known worldwide for the famous Palio run here, a horse race run around the piazza two times every summer. Movie audiences worldwide can see Siena and the Palio in the James Bond movie, Quantum of Solace.
Siena is said to have been founded by Senius, son of Remus, one of the two legendary founders of Rome thus Siena's emblem is the she-wolf who suckled Remus and Romulus - you'll find many statues throughout the city. The city sits over three hills with its heart the huge piazza del Campo, where the Roman forum used to be.
Arezzo
. The city abounds in monuments but tourism is mostly muted in this underrated city. In a real sense, Arezzo is a hidden gem as it has built its fortune on jewellery. Arezzo was a major town in the Etruscan federation, thanks to its strategic position on a hill at the meeting point of three valleys. The lopsided main square is a magnet for celebrations and strolls, as is the neighbouring Corso Italia. Culturally, the city belongs to Piero della Francecsa, the artist who has most left his mark on Arezzo. Medieval monuments cluster together in the northern part of Arezzo, including the Duomo, sheltered by the encircling walls of the 16th-century Fortezza, now a park with fine views.
GUEST REVIEW
“Escape to the peaceful Tuscan countryside. All in all it was a nice trip, highly recommended. It was our first time in Tuscany, and I felt that I didn't want to go home afterwards.”