San Bartolomeo

History and Striking Contemporary Design for Modern Living in Rural Tuscany

Set on almost ten acres of completely private forested land, this villa for rent in Tuscany is a polished and sophisticated update of a classic rural farmhouse. Overlooking the UNESCO designated Val di Chiana, it is the exact same views of the region depicted in Da Vinci's Mona Lisa painting. 

Burnishing its rustic beauty while maintaining its historic significance, the two-story house offers up a quiet refinement enveloped in complete privacy among the picturesque scenery. Created by a couple who have rescued and restored several historic homes in the area, it was a labor of love and a personal reflection on contemporary rural living.

The interiors combine an eye-catching selection of contemporary design and art from the owner’s impressive personal art collection, with one-of-a-kind antiques and furnishings, giving the house unique personality.

The large living room features a strikingly designed open fireplace as its focal point and barrel-vaulted ceilings above a red-washed floor that matches the exteriors.

The chef's kitchen is a foodie's dream, with extra-large, professional grade facilities, and an adjacent dining room that seats 12, making the house ideal for entertaining. There are six ensuite king bedrooms, each with lovely views of the valley and the gardens and room for up to 14 guests.

Surrounded by a large terraced lawn with a pool at the center, the grounds include a special rose collection made up of over 40 different kinds, a herb and vegetable garden, an orchard of multiple nut and fruit trees, and plenty of seating areas to take in the silence and spectacular views. There's even a small chicken pen for fresh eggs.

A contemporary gem that blends past and present, this is the place to experience la dolce vita in the Tuscan countryside.

Around

This area of the UNESCO Val di Chiana features a wealth of the many treasures of Tuscany. Ideally situated close to Siena, Perugia, and nearby Pienza, you'll want a car to explore and experience the region.

The nearby town of Sarteano is surrounded by beech and oak woods and borders the Grottos of Saint Francis and a small medieval convent dedicated to San Bartolomeo. It is said that Saint Francis visited the area from nearby Assisi in 1212 and 1215 and lived in the cells in the woods, one of which has a large cross engraved on the floor.

Inhabiting and commanding a hilltop in the southeast region near the Umbrian border, nearby Montepulciano with winding streets, Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and endlessly picturesque views offers a town of rich cultural history.
The famous wine regions of Chianti and Montalcino, Lake Trasimeno in Umbria, Perugia and Assisi making for great day trips. The food, the wine, the stunning scenery are all you'll need.

Location

Tuscany, Italy. Nearest airport: Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi – Umbria International (70km)

Best time to visit

Spring through fall