Description:
This house is almost like a secret! As I turn onto the white road that leads to the property, I am instantly transported into another place. It is hard to believe that I am only 10 minutes from Radda in Chianti. The hillside and its' lush woodland comfort my drive as I approach the property. I can already see the warm colour of the stone built farmhouse as the sun hits it through the cypress trees and pines. I park the car around the back and take a walk through the 6.7 hectares of land that includes the garden. I can already see where the swimming pool should go. The front of the house gives me a clear idea of what the structure would have been like. Sitting on two floors, there is definitely enough room here to have a four bedroom home. I see that a portion of the roof has been redone although this property needs a full restoration. There are many old features still intact here such as exposed beams, and fabulous old stone surrounds that will add to the overall ambiance of the home.
As I walk around the farmhouse I notice an ancient stone surround that dates the property back to the early 1800's if not earlier. There are ruined annexes to the side of the house and here I can envision the creation of a guest cottage. Overall there are roughly 400 sqm of habitable space to restore. This is definitely a project for someone who wants a personal touch to the layout of a home. All services will have to be integrated here, although there is already a communal aqueduct near by. I know by just standing here that this property can become something quite special. The view, obscured now by overgrown trees, will reveal the valley that so many people dream of - Chianti. Radda in Chianti is only s few minutes drive away and here I find typical Italian bars, restaurants and shops that make these medieval towns so popular. Within easy reach of other important centres like Greve in Chianti and Siena at 25 and 45 minutes respectively, there is always a great deal to do around the area. As I left the Casa San Marco, I realized that there are very few properties like this one left in the Chianti area. It most definitely will become a lovely home for those who wish to leave a personal stamp on a piece of Italian history.
My thoughts: This is a wonderful place but it may not be for everyone. It isn't for those who want to do a quick renovation but the potential here is great. This can be for someone who wants to live in Italy full time or for those who desire a holiday retreat. If you are willing to dedicate some time to this project, the results will be outstanding.
