Entire apartment

Enchanting Tuscany Vacation Rental in Medieval Fortress Town Panoramic Views

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Interior
View from property
Point of interest
2 bedrooms, iron/ironing board, free WiFi, bed sheets
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire apartment

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 474 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Washer
    Washer
  • Kitchen
    Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioning
  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire apartment to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Enchanting Tuscany Vacation Rental in Medieval Fortress Town Panoramic Views

Our well appointed two bedroom/two bath apartment sits within the walls of an ancient fortress town midway between Florence and Siena. We, the owners (an American and Italian), are proud to say we strived to keep the apartment's old world charm during the restoration process. It paid off, as our home was ultimately featured Italian architectural magazine.. (Case di Campagna).

The fortress town dates back to 1198. Our second floor apartment (2 flights up to our front door) is part of the ancient walls of the medieval fortress. Remodeled some years back, the interior reflects the hamlet's old world charm while still offering 21st century comforts. The master bedroom (up a short flight of stone steps off the main room), offers an ensuite bathroom with shower. The intimate rooftop terrace and the room's bifora window truly grace our guests with a 360° view of Tuscany. The second bedroom, on the main level, offers the same enchanting view of Tuscany’s silvery olive groves and patchwork vineyards. This bedroom has been set up as a second master with a queen size bed. The bathroom, with its walk-in shower) is adjacent to the bedroom.

The main room is an open space, comprising a well-equipped kitchen alcove and a dining table that comfortably seats six (even twelve if opened). This dining/living area has two comfortable sofas and an armchair that makes into a single bed (if needed).

The owner, a Tuscan cookbook author, ensures guests will find everything they need to prepare a savory Tuscan meal in the apartment's fingertip kitchen. There is a traditional oven, microwave, four burner gas stove top and dishwasher. There is a washing machine in the apartment, a drying rack, iron and ironing board.

There is wifi throughout the apartment with 24 hour free access. There is also a television in the living area for those who want to brush up on their Italian by watching Italian news, flicks and variety t.v.!

The hamlet, a typical medieval cobblestone fortress town, boasts of two archways (one to enter the hamlet and one to exit). Built around the year 1198, the hamlet still boasts an enchanting medieval aire. Our property is located on the main cobblestone street midway between the two archways. Within the walls one will find three excellent restaurants, two wine bars, and a handful of shops. Outside the walls of the fortress (a two minute stroll), there are two banks with ATM machines, two coffee bars, two grocery stores (one with freshly baked goods daily), a pharmacy, a post office and more. There are buses running to and from Florence and Siena (55 minutes in either direction) from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m. weekdays and also a few on the weekends. Tickets must be purchased on-line or at the tabacchi in the nearby village of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa (2 km away).

The neighboring medieval towns of Certaldo Alto (quaint hilltop fortress) and San Gimignano (The Manhattan of Tuscany) are within a 20 minute drive of the property. There are numerous other quaint hilltop towns scattered around this enchanting region, known as Chiantishire to the English. We highly recommend renting a car to explore the area's many hidden treasures.

The nearest town to the hamlet is Tavarnelle Val Di Pesa. There is a lovely footpath connecting this modern village to Barberino Val D'Elsa. The path (lined with olive trees) is approximately 2 kms long. Point of interest: Tavarnelle has a lovely outdoor market on Thursday mornings from 8a.m. to 1 p.m. Great place to mingle with the locals and pick up organic veggies, shoes, trendy clothes and more.

So, if mingling with the locals in a sleepy fortress town in Tuscany while sipping wine in an enchanting little square is on your wish list, then Barberino and our flat is the perfect place to do just that.

We are always happy to supply additional information about the area to traveling guests (i.e. festivals, fairs, wineries to visit, art shows etc). Culinary workshops in the property or in Florence for those ‘foodies’ can also be arranged with advance notice. Ask about private dining with English speaking hosts in Florentine homes as well.

For those who wish to swim or sunbath during the summer, we are happy to direct you to two lovely outdoor pools with garden settings nearby. For a nominal entrance fee, one can spend a relaxing afternoon swimming or sunbathing while mingling with the locals.

Property manager

Cindy Harding

Languages

English, Italian

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the apartment: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car recommended
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Chef service
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 private bathroom
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Bidet
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Stereo
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Patio
  • Rooftop terrace

Laundry

  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Unit size: 800 square feet

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

We should mention

All guests, including children, must be present at check-in and show their government-issued photo ID card or passport
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed USD 5000, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Map
Barberino Val D'elsa, Toscana

What's nearby

  • Antinori nel Chianti Classico - 11 min drive
  • Tenuta Torciano Winery - 14 min drive
  • Casa Sola - Chianti Winery - 14 min drive
  • Castello di Monsanto - 15 min drive
  • Isole e Olena Winery - 16 min drive

Getting around

  • Barberino Val d'Elsa Station - 12 min drive
  • Peretola Airport (FLR) - 46 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Hotel Borgo di Cortefreda - ‬15 min walk
  • ‪Bar La Pineta - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Cafè Bijoù Loungebar - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Da Barinco - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Dal Quinta - ‬2 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Enchanting Tuscany Vacation Rental in Medieval Fortress Town Panoramic Views pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Enchanting Tuscany Vacation Rental in Medieval Fortress Town Panoramic Views?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Enchanting Tuscany Vacation Rental in Medieval Fortress Town Panoramic Views?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Enchanting Tuscany Vacation Rental in Medieval Fortress Town Panoramic Views located?

Situated in a rural location, this apartment building is 1.1 mi (1.7 km) from Santa Lucia al Borghetto Church and 3.1 mi (5 km) from Sant'Appiano Antiquarium. Antinori nel Chianti Classico and Abbey of Passignano are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Enchanting Tuscany Vacation Rental in Medieval Fortress Town Panoramic Views Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 99 out of 104 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 104 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 104 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 104 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 104 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Edward S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Excellent accommodations in a lovely town!
We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Barberino Val d’Else! First, our accommodations were just as described and our host was helpful and accommodating to our needs and interests. Second, the quaint village appears just as one might imagine an 800 year old stone village would, with narrow streets and walkways. Barberino was a great choice for home base to explore Tuscany. Third, the restaurants all were wonderful — we sampled them all, including some in the countryside and we enjoyed each one. To top it off, there are local wines available for tasting and purchase. If/when we return to Tuscany, we know where we will stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Romantic and Charming
This place captured the romance of Italy perfectly! Such charm and great restaurants right across the way.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Randolph C., Bermuda Run, North Carolina, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Can't say enough about the location and the flat
This might be the perfect flat and location in central Tuscany. The medieval village is so charming, and the locals are very friendly. Food and drink are within easy walking distance and its central location makes a short trip to everywhere you could want to go in Tuscany and surrounding areas. The flat is located on the top floor and the views from the bedrooms are spectacular. We have never been disappointed staying here and the host is always available to help if needed.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfecto!
Off the beaten path. Located inside an old fortress. 40 minute drive from Florence. Beautiful countryside with grapes and olives! Ask owner about private cooking class.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Medieval without the evil! 😁
Beautiful area and very cool location in a medieval village. Apartment has 2 suites with their own full bathrooms. Perfect for 2 couples or with older kids. Kitchen is small but well set up with full size fridge, small oven, microwave and gas burners. Location is amazing in the heart of Tuscany grape, wine and olive growing. Beautiful scenery and views. Several restaurants in the village and within walking distance plus small grocery store. Highlight was discovering the local soccer club’s fund raising restaurant - outstanding wood fired oven pizzas plus pasta and charcuterie amd €4.50 pitchers of white wine plus helping out the locals. Great fun! Cindy also arranged a cooking class in the apartment which was great fun. Be prepared though - volume is high - plan to eat leftovers for at least one more day - maybe 2! Be prepared - the stairs to the apartment are steep and high. Anyone with mobility issues will have problems. Also in the hot summer the apartment is hard to keep cool. A/C units can just keep up in bedrooms but the living area is a challenge. We had 2 fans going blowing from the 2 bedrooms to cool the main living area. It was 35 to 40 C outside so understandable but need to be prepared. If you are driving the roads are hilly, curved and narrow. We found the drivers pretty good in the rural area compared to the cities in Italy. All in all a beautiful and restful area to stay in
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Gary S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great week in a beautiful village
This property is in the middle of a small walled village. The property is set along the ‘Main Street ” within the village walls and is on the top two floors of a traditional “townhouse “. It is well equipped and both bedrooms have air conditioning. There is a small terrace on the top floor and the views from both bedrooms and the terrace are stunning. Just be aware that there are a couple of flights of stone stairs up to the apartment however it is well worth it! There are a number of restaurants in the village some with uninterrupted views across the beautiful countryside. There is a small ‘sports bar” , just outside the walls, which sells great coffee, pastries and fresh bread. It became our morning routine to wander to the bar and sit outside with our coffee watching the world go by. The owners were very welcoming and great fun. You have to park in a car park just outside the village. We never had any problem getting a space. The surrounding area is beautiful and there are many hilltop villages to explore. We visited both Siena and Florence while we were there. Florence has a great “park and ride”facility just off the motorway as you approach the city from the south. There is plentiful parking and a tram service in to the city. This saved the hassle of trying to find parking in the city. We had a great time staying here and experiencing more of the traditional Italian way of life. We would return in a heartbeat.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Justin T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Serene & Memorable Stay
This was a great opportunity to stay in a medieval town that truly felt surreal. Many great restaurants were within walking distance, and there was beautiful scenery all around. This was also a nice location to be able to explore Siena, San Gimignano, and Florence. It was a very hot few days, and the air conditioning units in the apartment did what they could, but we made the best of it.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

David B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely flat in a charming hilltop village
Barberino is a very small hilltop town, with several artisan shops and restaurants, with beautiful views of the countryside. The apartment is two floors with a small terrace perfect for reading or a meal, from which you can enjoy the sunset. Cindy and her husband renovated the flat, adding light and double windows from the primary bedroom that look out over the Tuscan countryside. Perfect setting for enjoying the town or exploring the Florentine countryside.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous place!
Thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The little hamlet was picturesque and a perfect location for venturing all around Tuscany for a few days
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ronald

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We loved staying at this well portioned property! It had everything you could ever need and was beautifully decorated. Communication went very well and would love to stay here again sometime.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Teresa B.

Liked: Cleanliness
An Italian dreamy experience.
The property was more than we expected. It provided a perfect location and a beautiful Italian charm. Full of character and warmth. After entering we immediately felt the love that the owner put into the place. After reading some of the earlier opinions we were ready to use both bedrooms to be comfortable… There was no need for this! The upstairs bedroom and the bed were comfortable and beautiful. Thank you Cindy for creating such a wonderful experience for us.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

William B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Historic Tuscan experience
The apartment is as advertised –a renovated unit in the historic town. It is spacious and stocked with many essentials to make your stay more convenient. There are two great restaurants a stone’s throw away – one making wood oven pizzas and the other doing traditional local Italian food. There are two cafes a short walk away for your morning espresso with amazing deli sandwiches and pastries and a small Coop grocery store within 15 minute walk. The town is in the heart of Chianti between Sienna and Florence with many wineries and historic towns nearby. This area is breathtakingly beautiful. Like much of Italy this area is very vertical and the unit is on the top floor of the building with narrow stone staircase so be prepared. Again, like much of Italy, especially around historic towns, parking can be a bit of a challenge. And beware of the self- locking door so keep the keys with you at all times. If you are willing to put up a bit of inconvenience to stay in a really special place, you won’t be disappointed.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

6/10 Okay

Neda B., Niceville, FL

Great Location
This property is ideally situated with gorgeous sunrise views on one side of town, sunset on the other. We easily visited San Gimignano, Florence, and drove along the Chanti Road. The highlight was the people in town. It's such a cozy village, we quickly crossed paths repeatedly with the same few residents and/or visitors and greeted each other like old friends after a day or two. Giovanni and David at Pico were so welcoming each evening as we strolled in for apertivos on the terrace, and the pizza is magical. Paola, owner of Le Sete di Paola, was a joy (she offers textile arts classes, which we wish we knew before arriving becasue we absolutely would have booked a class with her...be sure to check out her shop for beautiful handmade items). However, the property itself felt a bit neglected. The master bed was incredibly loud (the couple in the main floor bedroom could hear every toss and turn happening above) and sagged in the middle, which did not make for restful sleep. The main floor bed was incredibly comfortable, though. In both bathrooms we found various half-used bottles of toiletries scattered about. We had hoped to stay in one night to grill, but the charcoal barbeque appears to be clothespin storage. The small dishwasher was a treat, as we could run it after breakfast when we left for the day; but finding dishwasher detergent was a bit of a scavenger hunt (hint: try looking in the washing machine compartment...we found a ziploc bag with 2 tabs in there).
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kristine M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Tuscany dream
This was a wonderful hamlet with beautiful buildings, views, and quiet. The host, Cindy, was super helpful and very quick to respond to emails. She gave very good directions to the home and how to check in. The home was clean and comfortable for my husband and me. Highly recommend taking cooking class as well. Great location to visit many small towns and wineries.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Barbarino - Tuscany stay
We felt right at home in Cindy's apartment. It had everything we needed. It was perfectly located to explore Tuscany - from hiking to investigating other small hamlets or larger cities. The people in Barbarino couldn't have been more welcoming and friendly! We will definitely recommend this listing to our friends and family.
Stayed 29 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Randolph C., Bermuda Run, North Carolina, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
Another wonderful stay
It was so nice last year we had to come back and stay again. Just as nice as we remembered. Beautiful flat with super views and in a great central location to get around Western Tuscany and Chianti country and only an hour to West coast (the way I drive). So nice we even ate in one night rather than go to a restaurant.
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tim

Liked: Cleanliness
Great getaway
We enjoyed our time in Barberino Tavarnelle. The apartment is located within a quaint little town. We enjoyed eating at the local restaurants (we would recommend making reservations as there are only a few). It was a great home based while we explored several wineries in the area. The apartment is just as described and is comfortable and well stocked.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Evelyn W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fantastic Spot in Tuscany
Wonderful place in a historic village in the Tuscan countryside. Easy to get to Florence, and other charming villages across Tuscany. There were 3 or 4 nice places to eat in the village; Pico, for pizza, was a favourite. All in all, an excellent place to stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely Stay
Lovely stay, central location. Easy to get to Florence and San Gimignano. Beautiful sunsets. The bar at the end of the entrance hill has wonderful morning pastries. Highly recommended, would stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Emily W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great find!
This was a lovely home base for exploring the tuscan countryside. Everything was as pictured and Cindy was very helpful and available for any questions. Would definitely book this property again
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Margaret D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Adorable Apartment and Excellent Location
My husband and I spent a week in Cindy’s apartment, and I can honestly say that she has thought of everything! We found the apartment to be spotless and well-stocked with all the essentials. The hamlet, neighborhood and location were exactly as described. The views from the top floor bedroom and veranda are spectacular! The home was a great jumping off point for our day trips throughout the Chianti region. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Aimee B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Don’t miss this special plac
Had an absolutely magical stay in this apartment. My husband and I were traveling with our daughters (19 and 17). This was truly a unique and special experience to stay in this property. It’s in a very cool medieval village with shops and restaurants. Apartment was very comfortable and clean. Owner is wonderful—make sure you do her cooking class. We made one of the best meals we’ve ever had! Hill towns and tons of wineries nearby. We stayed 4 nights and will forever remember this as a highlight of our trip!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen K., Pennsylvania

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Tuscany
The property was tastefully furnished and the views took your breathe away. Cindy was very easy to communicate with and made sure everything was seamless. We also had a cooking lesson with Cindy which was one of the highlights of our trip. The food was delicious and it was interesting to hear about her experiences living in Italy!
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jack P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Like living in a dream
I do not have enough words to describe how amazing our experience was with Cindy and her property in Barberino Val d'Elsa. The little hamlet of Barberino is simultaneously historic, fascinating, beautiful, and welcoming. There is nothing touristy about this place, rather it's clearly full of locals living their lives in the Tuscan countryside and they are more than happy to have visitors. As a bonus, it is perfectly located to visit towns and wineries all over Chianti. We also did a cooking class with Cindy, the owner, who is a cooking instructor, and we had the most spectacular time with her and her husband. Trips to places like Tuscany are always fun and relaxing, but the hidden gems like Barberino and connecting with people like Cindy are truly, truly rare and special. Grazie mille, Cindy, we will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Anne M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect location, wonderful apartment
The stairs are a bit much but the view is worth every step. The town is in a perfect location to tour the Chianti region, has several good restaurants and the views from the little patio are breathtaking. Loved our pizza lesson at Pico right in town. Very quiet and relaxing after a day of touring. Go there!
Stayed 14 nights in May 2023