The top-rated historic cottage, built from Città della Pieve's famous red brick, offers a luxurious open-plan interior. Outside is a large, private landscaped garden with a patio and dining area, making it perfect for families, groups of friends, or romantic getaways. Set over one floor, with a full chef's kitchen, comfortable dining area, and a spacious lounge with a smart TV and complimentary Netflix, the property features a Scan-eco wood burner and gas central heating, making the interior especially appealing during autumn, winter, and springtime. From June to September, guests can enjoy restful nights in air-conditioned bedrooms or a refreshing dip in the private 4x2-meter saltwater pool, with both offering uninterrupted views across the valley. Another comfort is the modern bathroom with a powerful rain shower, along with air-conditioned bedrooms that have integrated charging stations, blackout shutters, generous closet space, and quality linens. Large, south-facing windows throughout the cottage flood every room with light and provide uninterrupted views of the spectacular countryside, evoking the famed landscapes of Il Perugino, Raphael’s teacher. Dining al fresco is a highlight, thanks to the easy-to-use Weber BBQ system and spacious travertine marble dining area. During the cooler months (November-March), cozy up with throws and blankets to roast chestnuts beside the pot-bellied garden stove, enjoying the vibrant colors of the changing landscape. The Cottage sits on the crest of a hill, with its large, landscaped garden offering various seating areas in sun or shade, perfect for sunbathing or relaxing with a good book. The elevated terrace garden with a birchwood swing seat is ideal for an aperitivo at sunset or for meditative yoga or pilates at sunrise, accompanied by birdsong as the valley awakes.

Italian-born and OZ-raised, I'm a freelance writer, blogger, and photographer savoring la dolce vita in Umbria, passionate about hospitality, fine food and wine, film, great books, and everything Italian. Since moving to Italy from New York City, my partner and I have spent nine blissful years in semi-retirement, hosting dozens of family and friends, whilst touring the infinite treasures of Umbria, Tuscany, and beyond. We've had such fun sharing our 'Dolce Vita' that during the pandemic, when an opportunity arose to purchase Grove Cottage, we felt it was the perfect time to create a vacation home for friends, family, and of course, visitors from near and far. Having also spent decades working in the hospitality industry, we consider ourselves well-placed to anticipate our guests' needs, and you will find the cottage packed with everything you need for an extra-special holiday. We believe your holiday adventure should start the moment you arrive, so we will send you our regularly updated digital guide to the best things to do, see, and eat beforehand to help you plan your visit. Or if you have specific requirements, we can help curate a personal itinerary tailored to your interests. We hope to welcome you to this extraordinary, beautiful part of Italy. If you need more information, message me here.

The cottage is immersed in nature but just a short walk from the lively historic town centre. With its boutique La Scala theatre, museums, supermarkets, artisan and specialty food stores. As well as multiple restaurants, bars, cafes, and boutiques. The town also has an excellent tourist office packed with activity ideas. There are abundant hiking trails, water sports, and sailing at nearby Lake Trasimeno. Wonderful thermal spas in San Casciano dei Bagni and Chianciano Terme, as well as historical sights, and fabulous wine trails. The town also boasts 3 cookery schools and an open University offering interesting one-off classes throughout the winter months. And from December to March skiing and winter sports are also available on Mount Amiata, with 15 km of ski slopes, 2 chairlifts, 8 ski lifts, and 2 cross-country slopes. The mainline train station is also just a 10-minute drive away, so day trips to Florence, Rome, Sienna, or Arezzo are possible on Italy's pristine, economical train network. Also, the main A1. Motorway exit is just a ten-minute drive from Città della Pieve. The cottage offers private parking, either gated or adjacent. In town, there are plenty of free, easily accessible parking spaces.