Castellare de Sernigi, Tavarnelle Val di Pesa - Florence and Chianti

Less is more in this prestigious villa south of Florence, dating from the 1400s, where cool white tones and a carefully selected and positioned mix of contemporary and antique furnishings allow the old house’s original features to sing. The design-conscious will love the way the graceful arches lead from one room to the next, and how the blank canvas is coloured-in using the natural tones in the wooden beams and furnishings, stone fireplaces, polished terracotta tiled floors, striking blossoms and deep green leaves of the many potted plants. Then, there’s that veritable gallery of modern art, too.

Yet the deft artistic hand that created this lovely vision has also prioritised the comfort of guests, with huge squashy sofas and armchairs and cosy beds, a large professional-standard kitchen and two places that will make a grand occasion of a meal, the dining room and the large pergola. Though this is one of three buildings set in these extensive grounds, you are at liberty to gambol in the vast gardens and swim in the large private pool beyond the olive grove, with a separate hot tub to wallow in. Plus, the spacious veranda and external lounge is a perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine or a yoga class.

Ground Floor

Hall
Settle, table.

Dining Room
Two sofas, table and chairs, fireplace.

Kitchen
Fully equipped, table and chairs, stairs to bedroom 1.

Bedroom 1
Twin beds (cannot be converted to double), armchair.

Bathroom
Shower, Sink, WC

Laundry
Fully equipped.

First Floor

Bedroom 2
Single bed, stairs (an extra single bed can be put in this room on request) wardrobe.

En-suite Bathroom
Shower, sink, WC

Bedroom 3
Twin beds (can be converted to double), chest of drawers, wardrobe, armchair.

En-suite Bathroom
Bathtub, Shower, sink, WC

Studio
Desk and chair, cupboards.

Second Floor

Lounge
Three sofas, two armchairs, two coffee tables, three side tables, sideboard, fireplace.

Bedroom 4
Double bed (can be converted to twins), chest of drawers, wardrobe, armchair.

Ensuite Bathroom
Shower, sink, WC

Bedroom 5
Double bed (cannot be converted to a twin), wardrobe, chest of drawers, armchair.

En-suite Bathroom
Shower, sink, WC

Bedroom 6
Twin beds (can be converted to a double), wardrobe, chest of drawers, armchair.

En-suite Bathroom
Shower, sink, WC

Bedroom 7
Twin beds (can be converted to a double), armchair.

En-suite Bathroom
Shower, sink, WC

Our Thoughts
This gorgeous historic villa has been beautifully updated for modern times. We love the way nature rules the colour palette, through the property’s assets and the plentiful use of plants. The huge modern art that adorns the walls throughout is a truly special touch – it seems very appropriate that many of our guests staying here are likely to have been drawn to the property because of its proximity to Florence because it is the perfect base for lovers of art and history.

Notes
Seven Bedrooms. Eight bathrooms, seven en-suite. The owners offer a complimentary welcome dinner, please state your expected arrival time on booking. You are welcome to help yourselves to the wine and olive oil in the cellar, which is produced on the estate, and pay for what you use. There is an open-air theatre in the woods near the villa where the owners organise plays, concerts and mini operas for guests during summer. The villa is licensed for weddings. There are tennis courts nearby, which are free for guests to use. The owners have a dog that roams free in the gardens. Do not allow your dog in the pool or on the furniture.
Included, two hours, twice a week mid-cleaning (except Sundays and festivities). Towel change on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Fire Place: open

Pool
The large rectangular pool is in the large gardens, on the other side of an olive grove. There are changing rooms, with a small fridge for drinks, and a hot tub with five seats. The pool’s paved surround is furnished with sun loungers and chairs and there is a pergola covered with planting, beneath which is a table and chairs. The water is accessed at either end, via two sets of metal ladder steps. Pool Size: 15m x 7m, 1.2m-1.4m deep. Open from mid-May to mid-September weather permitting.