Description:
As I turn off the main asphalt road that runs through the Pergo valley, I instantly feel the appeal of the Tuscan countryside. Stone farmhouses are scattered along the path that leads me to Casa Onoria. My land mark, the owner's explain, is a wonderful cypress lined drive. One last bend in the road and I stop the car. The driveway is more than what I expected. Truly a Tuscan delight! I slowly approach the property admiring these gorgeous trees until I finally park at the car port.
One of the owner's is outside in the garden and I make my way to meet her. We decide to stroll around the garden that includes 8 hectares of land until we reach one of the top terraces. From here, the view is outstanding and I get an excellent view of the entire property. I learn that there are four homes in this amazing stone built Tuscan style farmhouse.
We make our way to the 15x7m swimming pool where I can imagine spending lazy summer days enjoying the view of Cortona in the foreground. Back at the front of the property, I am lead to the main door of the 160 sqm home in question called Casa Onoria. I am instantly impressed by the open space sitting room before me. Complete with fireplace and barrel vaulted ceilings, I admire the excellent finishes and the fully equipped kitchen at the back end of the room.
The three en suite bedrooms are quite spacious and well laid out with double doors leading to outdoor patios. Architectural features such as exposed beams, stone surrounds and terracotta floor tiles adorn the home and together with the rustic stone walls, this property is the perfect example of country appeal fused with modern high standards.
The home has a private garden adjacent to the main entrance and parking at the covered port. As one of four homes on the estate, Casa Onoria shares the use of the swimming pool, communal grounds which include 8 hectares of woodland and an olive grove of circa 500 trees. The home will be sold with a private garden and there is a gardener on hand to ensure that the property is kept to its maximum beauty.
I take one more stroll around the grounds and definitely see the potential here. Casa Onoria can easily become a full time home for those who want countryside surroundings without being isolated. This is a great opportunity for those who want to integrate with the Italian community and still conserve privacy and exclusivity. Close to the famous town of Cortona one will find all basic amenities, including fantastic restaurants, typical shops and many historical festivals, events and markets.
Cortona has changed very little in its urban make up, it remains there- framed in the center of a triangle which has for its corners three of the cities of Central Italy which are most rich in history and art works, Arezzo, Siena and Perugia. About eighty kilometres from Florence, Cortona remains a satellite of this city, remaining in its orbit nearly 500 years from 1411 the year of the loss of her independence as a free Comune until 1860.
www.cortonaweb.net
My Thoughts: The living space available here really makes this property a home. Although attached on both sides to other properties, there is still a real sense of privacy. The surroundings and the position really make this a property worth visiting. If you want a home that is easy to maintain, roomy and close to everything, this is a must see.
