Historic Villa in the heart of Tuscan wine country!

Nestled into the side of the mountain just outside of and below the walls of Cortona, Villa Il Bacchino, (“Little Bacchus”) is a secluded paradise. Officially named after a small, whimsical statue of Bacchus, the Roman god of the vine, riding a wine barrel that was found during an excavation of the property and is currently displayed in the gardens, the property is locally known as Il Bobolino, (“Little Boboli”), a reference comparing the elaborate gardens on the property to the larger and more famous Boboli Gardens surrounding the Pitti Palace in Florence.

The approach to the property begins where the paved road ends. A semiprivate, gravel drive will bring you to the property in approximately 3 minutes by car. Although the gate entering the property is only an 11 minute, scenic walk from its counterpart Roman gate entering the town, the property’s isolated and wooded location renders the town, as well as any neighbors, unseen from the Villa and vice versa. The views during your approach of the valley below and through the woods are lovely.

Built in 1790, the Villa sits on approximately 4 acres of terraced and elaborately landscaped grounds, traversed by scenic walking trails which reveal seating areas unique to each level from which guests can enjoy tranquil overlooks of the valley below. The property is completely surrounded by original stacked-stone walls with numerous wrought iron gates, which provide beauty as well as security. The swimming pool on level 4, is flanked by a beautiful fountain at one end and an al fresco, vine covered, dining pergola with another gorgeous view of the valley below, at the other end. The pool and 2 fountains are tranquil works of art. The estate is home to olive trees, fruit trees and a burst of color at every turn from the myriad of blooming trees and flowers adorning the property in the spring, summer and even fall. The grounds are equally beautiful during the day or when dramatically lit at night.

The Villa itself features 5 bedrooms and 5.5 baths, all windows swinging open to views of either the gardens or the valley. The first floor consists of a foyer/sitting room with a fireplace, a small office, a beautiful dining room with a fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen and a living room looking out onto the garden. There is gated, on-site parking for up to 4 vehicles. The home has just undergone a tasteful update, including remodeling of the bathrooms, adding air conditioning to all bedrooms, new stucco on the entire exterior, interior painting and “new” antique furniture throughout. The current owners like to cook, so guests will find that the kitchen is unusually well equipped, including modern appliances and cutlery that actually cuts. Somewhat unusual for Europe, the home also features a small bar complete with an icemaker. Although the Villa has 5 bedrooms, the seating inside and around the pool and grounds is all set up for 8 guests, which is what the owners recommend as a maximum for the property, to ensure a spacious and uncrowded feel in keeping with the property’s ambiance.

There is even a beautiful chapel on the grounds, which remains unlocked and available for use if a guest is so motivated.

The home’s property manager, Rita Mezzetti, who has been with the home for 20 years and speaks Italian, French and English, is available nearby to assist with any needs you may have during your stay.

For more information and reviews, please visit our website bacchino.com!