Umbria & Tuscany, ITALY: A Large Magical Villa

Description from the owner

Do you need a holiday APARTMENT OR a WHOLE VILLA?

The large and spacious self-catering villa is ideal for both small and large family groups or as a romatic retreat for couples. You can rent the spacioius self-contained fully-fitted apartment independently or take the spacious villa as a whole.

The large private garden (pergola and al fresco dining/bbq), olive grove, will not be shared however because the property is let to one group at a time. If you rent it first- the outdoor spaces are all yours.

Villa Gioiella has high chestnut-beamed ceilings and french-doors with balconies on every floor. There is am amazing amount of... light that allows breezes and views to pour inside. There are 4 double bedrooms, one triple bedroom and one single bedroom. Beds can be arranged as twins or doubles, to fit your family dynamic- with comfortable matresses and fresh white linen and towels provided- and bathrooms on every floor.2 well equipped kitchens, with dishwashers, gas tops electric ovens, microwaves, toasters kettles LOTS of wine glasses! 2 living rooms rooms with wifi through out and flat large screen cable TVs. DVDs.2 Washing machines

The PENTHOUSE APARTMENT

A grand staircase takes you up to the large, elegant two-bedroom penthouse apartment, with its fully equipped kitchen, living/dining, double and twin rooms, offers space for extended families or is perfect in itself for a smaller family unit or two couples. The Large open plan sitting and dining has a wood burning stove for spring and autumn evenings.

PERGOLA & PATIO

Alfresco dining for 12 under the pergola

Other Amenities

2 BBQ's, cots, high chair, paddling pool.

Gioiella

You are seconds walk from everything your body, mind, and spirit might need! ‘Bar Joy,’ serves delicious fresh bread, snacks, perfect coffee (and of course wine). Over the road, in a building still pock marked from the artillery fire of World War II, there is a grocery store (negozio) for fresh fruit and veg’- pasta (and of course wine). When- after all this, you need a little forgiveness, the church is right next-door (wine only at communion)! There are numerous restaurants in the area serving mouthwatering local treats. Villa Gioiella is nestled in Italy's big green Umbrian heart where the people, the coffee, the food and of course the wine are real, strong, delcious and flowing.

A wee hamlet, on the border of Umbria and Tuscany, Gioiella is a magical place of fortunate contrasts. Standing handsome and elegant on the highest point in the village (with the best views), behind the village church in ‘Piazza Piccola,’ surrounded by the warmth of real Italian country life. Yet, at the back of the house, with it's huge garden and olive grove you find yourself transported to the peaceful, rich, countryside with 180* uninterrupted views. Tuscany’s verdant panoramic vistas- undulating hillsides and Montepulciano’s blushing vines are just ‘over there’- bursting to share their fruit. Lake Chiusi glitters in the distance and spectacular views spectacular sunsets can be enjoyed from balconies on every floor.

Lake Trasimeno's white sandy beaches, swimming and water sport, (kite surfing, biking, hiking etc) are a 10 minute drive away. And of course you are surrounded by the medieval villages, of Cortona (Under the Tuscan Sun), Panicale, Montpulciano, Citta della Pieve etc. The location offers the best that Italy, Umbria and Tuscany have to offer... with the famous cities of Florence, Siena and Rome within 1.5 hrs drive away.

Warning

A dream lover, Italy is a thief that steals the breath right out from under your nose…transcending darkness, whispering, sotto voce, ‘Italia.’

Enjoy the best of Tuscany, the best of Umbria from a beautiful 18th century 'Casa Padronale.'

Depending on who you ask “Gioiella” means little gem- or little joy. Either way it sums it up perfectly.Read more

Additional Location Information

Villa Gioiella is a self catering holiday home nestled on the border of Italy's big green Umbrian heart and Tuscany's treasure trove of World heritage sites.
The Umbria Tuscany Border
At Villa Gioiella you are a daytrip (or less) from Cortona, Montepulciano, Citta della Pieve, Assisi, Perugia, Orvieto, Siena, Florence and even Rome. You have the choice of visiting soaring ancient cities or the most beautiful and well-preserved ancient hilltop villages in Tuscany and Umbria. Medieval façades, and vibrant cobble-stoned piazzas seem older than God, but are positively current incarnations of foundations and walls whose lifetimes reach back beyond B.C, even to the elusive Etruscans. 

Sample the famous wines of Brunello di Montalcio or Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Wander through Cortona's famous piazza, made famous by Francis Mayes, "Under the Tuscan Sun."
Chiusi boasts catacombs, Etruscan tombs and a fantastic museum. As well as a main railway station- the train to to Rome takes under 1 hour.

Lake Trasimeno, surrounded by olive groves and wooded hills is the cleanest lake in Italy. There are no industrial zones nearby, and the surrounding areas are sparsely populated. The local fish is delicious.

Florence and Rome can both be reached within 1hr30min.
The Lake Trasimeno / Gioiella area
Three of the main Etruscan cities - Perugia, Chiusi, and Cortona - are within 20 km of the lake. There are some Roman ruins.

ACTIVITIES
Beaches for swimming, sailing and windsurfing at Castiglione del Lago/ Lake Trasimeno (15 mins drive). Safe for children and warm.
There are regular ferries, out to the 3 islands from Tuoro-sul-Trasimeno to Isola Maggiore (excellent restaurant there). There is a fishing village whose houses date from the 14th century. St. Francis himself slept here in 1211.Horseback riding and 9-hole golf club 20 minutes away in Panicale. 
Thermal spas at Chincano Terme, Sarteano and Montepulciano, (about 30 minutes drive). 

The climate is warm, with long hot summers and moderate winters. From May to September, the Lake is warm enough to swim. It has well tended beaches and variety of water activities, Lago di Trasimeno is favorite holiday destination for tourists and locals- sunning bathing on beaches or sailing, kayaking and canoeing. Fishing for pike, carp and tench is a way of life for many locals and are used in local dishes cooked with local olive oil, wines, and herbs over a wood fire. There is also an exciting nightlife.
In the small towns and villages surrounding Lake Trasimeno, there are many castles, ruins, and historic churches.
History
Lake Trasimeno has a dark history too. In 217 BC, Cathaginian Hannibal ambushed and massacred the Roman army on the lake's northern shore. One of the bloodiest battles (and worst defeats for the Romans) of the second Punic War. 



Perugia, 40 minutes; Assisi, Siena and Orvieto about one hour away. Both Rome and Florence can be reached in 1,5- 2 hours.
PARKING: There is sufficient parking out side the villa for 3+ cars in Piazza Piccola.

Location Type Lake, Rural, Village

Additional notes from owner

Everything included in the rate- no extra charges.
Villa Gioiella can also be rented at lower cost to groups of 2-4 in the penthouse apartment. Up to 8 in the main house. Please enquire about costs.
25% of rental fee to secure booking (minimum 10 weeks before), and the remainder (plus a refundable-within 2 weeks- breakages deposit of £150) payable 8 weeks prior to arrival.
Welcome pack provided on arrival and English-speaking representative available to answer any questions.

What Past Guests Are Saying

Overall Rating

• renhall
  Australia

  A slice of Tuscan paradise...

  Left on 09/17/2012 for a stay in September 2012
  
  

  We had a hectic travel schedule through Europe to attend a wedding in France and a car show in Frankfurt, so when we found Villa G (I still don't know how to pronounce it!) we were so pleased - a slice of Tuscan paradise. We settled in to the relaxed Tuscan vibe very quickly!
  
  We hired the two bedroom penthouse, with the kids in their own rooms, including a cot to keep the little one housed at night! The first thing that takes you when you open the front door are the furnishings - Deb is clearly an artist, with an eclectic mix of beautful sculptures, paintings, trinkets and books. I would have stolen everything and moved it all back to my house if I'd had the room! Sadly however due to our two toddlers, most of the nice things had to be moved to higher ground!
  
  We loved having a kitchen after spending weeks in hotel rooms, and with the little shop just across the street my husband cooked up some amazing Italian meals straight out of the cookbooks provided.
  
  We sat on the balcony most evenings with a glass of chianti and proseco and watched the amazing sunset after having spent each day exploring. Florence, Siena and San Gimignano are all only a few hours drive away - easy day trips & all well worth it. We explored the lake and fort at Castiglione Del Lago. The trips and exploring wore out the kids, which meant after dinner we had lots of lovely grown up time on the balcony to breathe in the beautiful brisk country air.
  
  Having the homely staples like a washing machine was fabulous, and we even arranged for a baby sitter so we could have a night out. I was a bit of a muppet and couldn't get the hot water to work in the shower, so after calling the manager he offered to come straight over and have a look at it - turns out I was turning the faucet the wrong way - somewhat embarrasing!
  
  Wifi also meant that my husband could catch up on work emails, relieving his stress (adding to my annoyance!).
  
  I also snuck out most mornings to the local bar for my expresso - my attempt at Italian was terrible, but the lovely lady could see I needed a coffee and that's what I got - mmm Italian coffee...
  
  We loved it and we'll be back - it would be fabulous to take friends and fill the whole house!.

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• Randy913
  Louisville, Colorado

  Experience the real Italy at this fantastic and affordable villa

  Left on 07/03/2012 for a stay in June 2012
  
  

  This rustic villa in the heart of Umbria is awesome. And so is the hamlet of Gioiella, which was a perfect place to experience a little bit of the real Italy. Out the front door of this villa is a local cafe (Bar Joy), small supermarket, and a friendly small village. Out the back door is a spectacular view of the Italian countryside. It's the best of both worlds for people who want to experience the countryside as well as get a taste of local life. Owner Debbie Oakes' enthusiasm about Italy, generosity in sending tips and information before our arrival, and thoughtful care in furnishing the place with everything we could need was much appreciated. It was clear that she cared about the quality of our time there. The bedrooms were comfortable and romantic, with windows and three balconies overlooking the awe-inspiring countryside. The clean kitchens were both well stocked with cooking utensils and wine glasses (which came in handy), there were good books and guidebooks on every shelf, and outside is a patio and grill and small olive grove. The entire place was overflowing with rustic charm and comfortable, inviting spaces--our group of 11 had plenty of room to spread out. Debbie helped us arrange an evening cooking class with Tonino, a local chef who provided an unforgettable experience teaching us how to cook a real homemade Italian meal. Check out the villa website -- lots of photos as well as Debbie's terrific blog about Italy. You'll love staying here.

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• Ronnie300
  London, England, United Kingdom

  Incredible Holiday in divinely authentic Italian Villa!!!

  Left on 10/26/2011 for a stay in September 2011
  
  

  Incredible holiday!!! We went as 2 large families (4 adults and 6 kids under 9).
  Loved the authentic Italian villa with all the amenities of a modern day holiday home. The space was big enough to feel like we weren't in each others pockets. Also the large outdoor living space gave us the opportunity to play, explore the olive grove and have long lunches and dinners into the evening. The area is superb for sightseeing Tuscany, Umbria, and much more of Italy to its full glory. We did a lot of day trips to Cortona, Perugia, and the highlight, Assisi. The biggest bonus was Lake Trasimeno which is only 10 mins away. Everyday, we couldn't resist going there for either a swim on our way to or back from one of our daily excursions or even spending a whole day enjoying the sun, paddle boats and fantastic restaurant for a leisurely lunch. Our trip was topped off by the owners (Debbie) amazing wealth of knowledge of the area and the information she supplied which made our trip effortless and a real italian adventure. Can't recommend this place enough. Definitely booking for next year.

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• H Halewood
  London

  A slice of heaven

  Left on 05/24/2011 for a stay in May 2011
  
  

  I don't usually bother with feedback or reviews, but we loved our stay here so much, we hope to make it an annual holiday!
  Well equipped kitchen, spacious rooms and private balconies with fabulous views over the rolling Tuscan countryside induce a glow of relaxed wellbeing - even with four kids on the go! The fresh produce of the region and lashings of wine turned every evening into an al fresco feast. When the tribe fancied a change of pace, we packed up the car (essential in Tuscany!) and explored the region. We'll be back!

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