Looking for a property that is just that little bit different? Then consider Villa Paterno, close to Vallombrosa near Florence, an outstanding choice that is sure to wow your fellow travellers. This villa is, in fact, a former monastery, and it has a wonderful setting, too; perched on a hilltop, its whitewashed façade peeks out of a lush canopy of mature trees at the surrounding landscape. Dating from 1700, this atmospheric and stylishly restored property, is a beauty - this is your home for a week or two, yet it looks like the kind of historic landmark you might earmark in a guidebook to go and take a look around.
Villa Paterno the name of the self-contained first-floor apartment within this grand mansion, which, with four bedrooms, is well suited to a party of friends or family. A graceful carpeted staircase leads up to the entrance to these spacious quarters, which are well furnished with many attractive antique pieces. There's a bright and airy sitting room, dining room and kitchen and a furnished spacious balcony offering a gorgeous panorama over the garden and private pool to the surrounding countryside. This is a superb place for al fresco dining, where the chef in your party can rustle up a treat on the stone barbecue. The pool is another delightful spot to savour: lined by a guard of slender cypress trees, it provides further sublime views of a quintessential Tuscan landscape of vineyards and olive groves.
First Floor
Hall
Sideboard, desk, three chairs, main entrance, doors leading to furnished balcony.
Lounge
Two sofas, three chairs, sideboard, billiard table, fireplace.
Dining Room
Table and chairs, card table and chairs, two sideboards, door leading to the balcony.
Kitchen
Fully equipped, table and chairs, doors leading to balcony.
Bedroom 1
Single beds (cannot be converted into double), chest of drawers, writing desk and chair, two armchairs.
Bathroom
Bath, handheld shower, sink, WC.
Bedroom 2
Double bed (cannot be converted into twins), chest of drawers, (access to two wardrobes in the corridor).
Bedroom 3
Double bed (cannot be converted into twins), wardrobe.
Bedroom 4
Single beds (can be converted into a double), two wardrobes, chest of drawers.
Bathroom
Bath, handheld shower, sink, WC.
Bathroom
Shower, sink, WC, washing machine.
Our Thoughts
We love the atmosphere of this historic property, where there's a distinct echo of those distant times when Villa Paterno was a monastery. But don't think austere: the living rooms and bedrooms are generously sized, beautifully renovated and lavishly furnished. The views from the balcony of the valleys, mountains, and hilltop settlements are simply stunning. Plus you even get your very own billiard table and, of course, a private pool to play in or swim laps in the enormous pool. Top tip: buy fresh bread daily from the small grocery shop just outside the estate.
Notes
Computer with Wi-Fi is available for guests. The on-site chapel is licenced for weddings and baptisms. The owner lives in the property but has a separate private entrance, and may occasionally use the pool together with her family, but is respectful of guests' privacy. There is a pet dog living at the property but it is not allowed into the pool area.
Pool
Length: 20 metres
Width: 10 metres
Depth: 1.5 to 3 metres
Entrance: Metal ladder
Opening times: May to September
Fenced: Yes
Furnished: Sunloungers, parasols, table and chairs
Cleansed: Chlorine
Distance from villa: 20 metres
la celle saint cloud, France
Un grand merci au site go to toscane d’un sérieux extraordinaire et à l’automne de cette maison d’une gentillesse inépuisable et d’une disponibilité particulière. Nous avons beaucoup apprécié les échanges avec cette personne que nous remercions beaucoup
Direkt neben der Villa ist eine familiengeführte Mini-Bäckerei. Dort werden auch Delikatessen verkauft. Alleine ein Besuch dort ist eine Reise in eine vergangene Zeit, ohne Touristen, einfach das Leben auf dem Land mit authentischen Menschen. In der Umgebung sind viele kleine Trattorien, in der jedes Gericht wie ein Gedicht schmeckt. Winzer und Olivenbauern bieten Verkostenden an oder laden gar im eigenen Restaurant zum Essen.
Wer Radfahren, Laufen oder Wandern liebt, findet diverse Wegen in Atemberaubender Natur.
Um die Ecke ist ein altes Kloster, das Arno-Tal, diverse Burgen. In 30 min ist man mit dem Zug in Florence.
Es gibt keinen besseren Ort um die echte Toskana ohne Touristen zu entdecken.
Travelling with a large group? 
