About this property
Nestled on a Tuscan hillside amongst greenery and olive groves, Casa Bicci boasts panoramic views that will stay with you forever. Around a 15-minute drive from Cortona, it’s the perfect place to unwind after exploring the gorgeous Etruscan town.
This stunning farmhouse dates back to the 700s, and although it’s been newly renovated, original features remain. The fireplace is one of these pieces, giving the room character, and exposed painted beams complement it. With a modern kitchen and large dining table, you have everything you need to enjoy dinners with your friends or family. It features 5 double bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, for a total of 10 guests.
Although Casa Bicci’s interior is beautiful, step outside to be blown away even further. You’ll first notice the sweeping landscape surrounding you, made up of distant mountains and the Chiana Valley. Admire the landscape while relaxing in the hot tub or sunbathing by the pool. The outdoor kitchen is equipped with a wood oven, grill, sink and mini-fridge – making it easy for you to cook a meal to eat al fresco while the sun sets.
The spa room is a wonderful place to relax when you’re not taking a dip in the swimming pool. With glass walls, you can have a hydro-massage while appreciating the views. It also contains a sauna and chromotherapy – ideal for letting those stresses melt away.
From Chiana Valley you can visit the hilltop towns of Umbria and Tuscany. The valley has a large river that runs through it, flowing part through Umbria and part through Tuscany.
Drive around 15 minutes to reach the nearest town of Cortona. This ancient town is perched on a hill, providing views that will take your breath away. Discover the historical sites, such as the 14th-century palazzo and the Piazza della Repubblica, the old centre. Another charming town worth travelling to is Castiglione del Lago. Located on the edge of Lake Trasimeno, it’s a gorgeous location from which to sit and enjoy a coffee while looking out over the water.
If you love exploring cities, Perugia is filled with things to do. Around an hour away, Umbria’s capital sits amongst historic defensive walls. As you walk through its ancient streets, you’ll find impressive buildings such as Palazzo dei Priori, a Gothic palace, and the 12th-century church of San Pietro.
The picturesque Chiana Valley is the ideal point from which you can discover Umbria and Tuscany’s towns which sit amongst the hilltops. An impressive river runs through the valley, flowing between Umbria and parts of Tuscany.
The closest of these towns is Cortona, just a 15-minute drive away. Here you can stock up on delicious Italian delicacies at the supermarket or dine out at local restaurants if you prefer. Head to the Piazza della Repubblica, the ancient heart of the town with a stunning palazzo dating from the 14th century. Sit on its famous tall staircase for an amazing view of the square – perfect for people watching. And learn more about Cortona’s fascinating Etruscan civilization by touring the maec museum. Finally, art lovers will be captivated by the Diocesan Museum, filled with magnificent masterpieces.
For a spectacular change in scenery, drive around 30 minutes to the lakeside town of Castiglione del Lago. Situated in the southwest corner of Lake Trasimeno, it’s a great location to explore the national park. Make sure you go to Rocca del Leona, a medieval fortress with incredible views of the lake. Other sites worth seeing are the ancient fort of Palazzo Ducale and the churches Chiesa di Santa Maria Maddalena and Chiesa di San Domenico.
If you feel like visiting a bustling city, Perugia, the capital of Umbria, is around an hour’s drive away. Its historic centre is particularly interesting, surrounded by defensive walls. Head to the Palazzo del Priori, a Gothic palace surrounding a large fountain. On one side, you’ll find shops and restaurants, and on the other, you’ll find a museum. As you wander through Perugia’s medieval streets, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time.
If one Italian bustling city isn’t enough for you, then you can also head to Arezzo, only 31km away. Must sees include the cathedral and the Basilica di San Francesco. Other cultural highlights in this region are the cities of Umbertide (44km) with its medieval fortress, and Città di Castello (55km). The latter is an art lover's paradise. Marvel at 15th-century frescoes created by famous Italian Renaissance painters in the Church of San Domenico, then visit Palazzo Vitelli alla Cannoniera to stroll around the Municipal Art Gallery (Pinacoteca) and discover paintings by Lorenzetti and Raphael.
Accommodation
Villa Interiors
- Living and dining area with sofa, fireplace and table seating four guests
- Fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, oven, kettle, toaster, fridge, freezer and hob
- 5 x bedrooms with double beds and ensuite bathrooms with shower and WC
- Guest WC
Outside Grounds
- Private pool (8m x 4m, max depth: 1.4m) open approximately beginning-May to end-September
- Sunbeds and parasols
- Glass-walled spa room with sauna, hydro massage and chromotherapy
- Hot tub
- Outdoor kitchen with a wood oven, grill, mini-fridge and sink
- Al-fresco dining table and chairs
- Barbecue
- Parking for 5-6 cars
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning
- Heating
- Fireplace
- Washing machine and dryer
- Ironing facilities
- Hairdryer
- TV