Description:
I am impressed by the cypress lined drive way that leads me to this amazing estate. I park my car in the covered car port and walk towards the property in question. Casetta Giovanna is one of four homes that have been created in a stone built farmhouse. This lovely mansard home holds 92 sqm of habitable space one bedroom, one bathroom, a large living area that includes a rustic style kitchen and a fantastic mansard loft above the sitting room. The owner of this home has decided to keep one bedroom here although this space can be easily divided to accommodate two bedrooms if needed as it was originally. Terracotta floors, exposed beams and wood door surrounds add to the overall rustic appeal of this property. There is a nice sized garden just outside the home to ensure privacy although there are 8 hectares of land (including woods and olives) and a 15 x7 swimming pool that is shared by the four owners.
The warm interior colours are complemented by the ever-changing view of the valley. Sunflower fields, lush woodland and fields of hay outline the panorama whilst Cortona in the foreground reminds us that town life is near by.
All services are in good working order and include a wonderful wood burning stove that is an efficient source of heating and also adds to the overall Tuscan feel of the property. The little village of Pergo is a 10 minutes walk from the property and here one will find the local grocer, a coffee bar and a great pizzeria.
Transportation to and from the area is excellent with the Siena/Perugia Motorway at 15 minutes away and the A1 Autostrada at 25 minutes away. The main Naples/Milan train line is located in a nearby town and this means that access to places like Florence and Rome is easy and efficient without the use of a car!
The area is marked by the famous medieval hillside town of Cortona. This ancient town is lively and interesting to Italians and tourists alike with its' many shops, coffee bars and excellent restaurants. It has also become know for its' many cultural events for the many historical sites to visit. Cortona's Etruscan power is witnessed by the still standing imposing segments of the city walls. Several Etruscan tombs were found in the valley. We will mention the Tanella di Pitagora, the Melone in Camucia and the Meloni at Sodo. Very rich archaeological findings are exhibited in the Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca in Palazzo Casali, foremost the renowned Etruscan lamp of the 5th century BC.
www.abctuscany.com
My Thoughts: Casetta Giovanna is a great choice for those who want a place in the country but do not want the responsibility of owning a large property. Although the smallest of the four available on this estate, Casetta Giovanna is completely self sufficient. With the option of creating two bedrooms if needed, this is great as a small family holiday retreat.
