Essential Italy

Very few people who visit Cortona fail to be impressed by the beauty of this medieval town. With a wealth of artistic gems and a maze of tiny streets climbing the hillside, Cortona is a place people return to year after year. It is in one of these winding back streets that we have discovered L’Alcova, just a few meters from the central piazza of Cortona.

An unassuming door leads into a lovely courtyard, lovingly restored by the owner. Comfortable outdoor furniture will encourage you to spend time in this ‘hidden garden’.

Entry to this ground floor apartment is into a well equipped livingroom/kitchen. Having been recently restored there are all modern fittings, including dishwasher and washing machine. From here one passes into a small corridor and into the bedroom which also has access to the courtyard. The furnishings are light and modern, providing contrast in this medieval setting. The apartment is completed by a bathroom with shower.

We have seen many town/village apartments and L’Alcova impressed us for several reasons. The position is marvellous, extremely central and yet private and peaceful. The outdoor space allows guests space to spread out and relax. The interior, although quite small, has been well thought out and equipped. Finally the owner (who has access to his house through the courtyard) is charming and friendly. At the foot of Cortona there is a railway station, it is possible to be collected and driven up to the apartment and be ‘car free’ to enjoy Cortona and use the buses to explore this fascinating region (Arezzo, Perugia, Montepulciano, Siena).