Cretole, Monterchi - Arezzo and Cortona

This substantial yet elegant villa is a great find for any larger groups of family or friends – at full capacity, with 12 people staying, it will still feel spacious. Close to the border with Umbria, Cretole offers the chance to explore the eastern edge of Tuscany – Sansepolcro, the birthplace of Piero della Francesca, isn’t far – as well as taking a step into the neighbouring province. Set on a forested hilltop, you’re in full command here of extensive views: your neighbours are the echoing blue-green hills that frame the flood plain of the river Tiber below.

Cretole delivers a generous serving of luxury. Internally, it is very well appointed, mixing high-quality contemporary furnishings with a scattering of antique chests and cabinets, chandeliers and classical busts. There is much to please the eye. Every bedroom has an en-suite bathroom; one even has its own lounge. The second floor can act as a self-contained apartment, which may be useful for some older or younger members of the party. Everyone will come together around the substantial private pool and the loggia is sure to be a favourite for al-fresco dinners.

Ground Floor

Hall
Table and chairs, stairs to first floor, main entrance.

Lounge 1
Two sofas, display cabinet, coffee table, two sets of French doors to loggia.

Lounge 2
Two sofas, two armchairs, fireplace.

Study
Two armchairs, cabinet, writing desk, two chairs, two sets of French doors, one to loggia, one to side terrace.

Dining Room 1
Table and chairs, display cabinet, small cupboard, armchair, French doors to side terrace.

Dining Room 2
Table and chairs, two sideboards, dresser, French doors to grounds.

Kitchen
Fully equipped, two stools, French doors to side terrace.

Bedroom 1
Twin beds (cannot be converted to a double), wardrobe, chair, French doors to garden.

En-suite Bathroom
Shower, sink, WC, door to garden.

Cloakroom
Sink, WC, washing machine.

First Floor

Lounge 3
Two sofas, armchair, cabinet, table, fireplace, door to external steps to garden.

Bedroom 2
Double bed (cannot be converted to twins), wardrobe, chest of drawers, chair.

En-suite Bathroom
Bath, shower, sink, WC.

Bedroom 3
Double bed (cannot be converted to twins), wardrobe, dressing table, blanket box, two chairs.

En-suite Bathroom
Bath, shower, sink, WC.

Bedroom 4
Double bed (cannot be converted to twins), wardrobe, chest of drawers, dressing table, side table, three chairs.

En-suite Lounge
Two sofas, chest of drawers, side table, fireplace, door to external steps into garden.

En-suite Bathroom
Bath, shower, two sinks, chair, WC.

Second-Floor Apartment

Lounge-Kitchen-Diner
Sofa, coffee table, table and chairs, fully fitted kitchen area, stairs to first floor.

Bedroom 1
Double bed (cannot be converted to twins), wardrobe, chest of drawers, chair.

En-suite Bathroom
Shower, sink, WC.

Bedroom 2
Twin beds (can be converted to a double), wardrobe, chest of drawers, chair.

En-suite Bathroom
Bath with handheld shower, sink, cupboard, WC.

Our Thoughts
Cretole is a wonderful place to stay together while not being on top of each other. It is generous inside and out. The pool is large and set in open grounds beneath the villa; we love the views from its well-furnished terrace. Immediately outside the house, the loggia and side terrace have tables and chairs for everyone. Inside, there are multiple options for hanging out – choose between two lounges, two dining rooms and a study, as well as a charming entrance hall or simply perching on a stool in the gorgeous kitchen.

Notes
Six bedrooms. Six bathrooms, all en-suite. The twin room on the second floor can be made up as a double if you request when booking. The other building in the photos will be locked and unoccupied during your stay. Air conditioning and heating, if used, are charged by consumption. The garden is fenced and small pets are welcome.
A private chef can be booked, only on request and with owner confirmation.
Parking - 6 unsheltered parking space.

Pool
The chlorine-cleansed pool is deep enough for diving at one end and has ladder steps to access the shallow section. The large surrounding stone-paved terrace has sunloungers, tables and chairs, as well as umbrellas and a pergola for shade. A pool house to one side has a sink, fridge and small bathroom with a toilet and a shower.
Pool size: 6x14m, 1.5-2.2m deep. Open May through October, weather permitting.