Essential Italy

Villa Leonardo is what many people have in their minds as the perfect Tuscan Villa. From the terracotta floors and the original fireplace to the wooden beamed ceilings and shutters, this house fits the bill. Add to this a sumptuous pool and grounds, a billiard table, tennis court and easy access to the wonders of Tuscany, and we believe we have found the perfect house for a family or group of friends.

‘Sorry... there’s no box for Excellent! Ian gave us enough information to avoid all the rubbish and concentrate on the best parts of Tuscany which are largely undiscovered. He also lent me his bike, cycling kit and his time to make our stay exceptional.’

‘Brilliant information pack – the best we’ve ever had. Very informative, witty and above all accurate. Had excellent suggestions for restaurants and places to visit. Ian spent loads of time and made a real effort to answer all our questions. The best service we’ve ever had on holiday abroad.’

Trevor and Mary Hair, York, UK

Ground floor
The kitchen is decorated in Tuscan country style and has the following appliances: dishwasher, oven, gas hobs, coffee machine, fridge, freezer. Three doors lead from the kitchen, one to outside where there is a pizza oven and barbecue, another to the bottom of the stairs, the third to the dining room. Here there is a big dining table and chairs. This room opens onto a large living room which is dominated by the fireplace. There are two comfortable sofas and from here there is another exit to the garden. Directly outside this door is a patio with table and chairs and this is where most guests will dine in the evenings with the wonderful view of Pratomagno as a backdrop. The ground floor is completed by a billiard room and a bathroom (with shower).

First floor
The stairs lead up to a large landing. Immediately at the top of the stairs on the right there is a bedroom with three single beds. There are two double bedrooms and two bathrooms, one with a bath and the other with shower. The washing machine is in the larger of the two bathrooms. The bedrooms are spacious and all have excellent views to Pratomagno, the largest bedroom also looks towards the pool.

Outside there is parking within the gates of the house, with space for three cars. The Barbecue and pizza oven are to the back of the house outside the kitchen. A well kept lawn stretches in front and to the side of the house. Approx 15m from the house is the lovely pool 5 x 10m and 1.4 – 2.2m deep. Pool towels are included with the rental. Next to the pool is the tennis court, which is a hard court and rackets and balls are available upon request.

This area of Tuscany has a unique landscape called Le Balze, the rock has been eroded into pyramidical forms – it is claimed that it is this landscape in the background of Leonardo da Vinci’s Monna Lisa. The nearest village is Tasso (2kms) and here you will find a small restaurant and bar (as well as more fantastic views!) The restaurant is within walking distance (quite steep on the way there). Nearby there is the wonderful 12th century Romanesque church at Grópina and with the A1 motorway so close you are within very easy striking distance of Florence (either by train or car) and all the treasures of Tuscany. We thoroughly recommend Villa Leonardo as a high quality accommodation with much to offer.