Villa Paterno, Pelago - Florence

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 (private)
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 1
Bath, handheld shower, sink, WC.

Bathroom 2
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
Four bedrooms. Three bathrooms. The fourth bedroom can be made into a double bedroom if requested in advance. 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 but is respectful of guests' privacy. There is a pet dog living at the property but it is not allowed into the pool area. Guest parking is available at the front of the villa.

Pool
Metal ladder steps lead into the large pool, which is set on a lower level to the house, reached down a set of steps through a safety gate. The pool is surrounded by a paved terrace that is furnished with sun beds, which leads to lawn. An additional terrace is furnished with a table and chairs shaded by a parasol. A cloakroom is a few steps away with a fridge for keeping drinks cool. Pool size: 10m x 20m, 1.5-3m deep, open May to September, weather permitting.