Borgo Merlo
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You will find Borgo Merlo in the verdant Chianti hills in the heart of Tuscany. The accommodation here comprises three neighbouring homes that share landscaped ...
Read moreOverview
You will find Borgo Merlo in the verdant Chianti hills in the heart of Tuscany. The accommodation here comprises three neighbouring homes that share landscaped gardens. This serene, rural base is a fantastic place to stay with a large group of friends or family and from here, you can enjoy trips to nearby villages and cities such as Florence and Siena.
This pretty hamlet of historic farmhouses is part of a vast 800-acre estate which offers guests complete privacy amidst vineyards, olive groves and dense, ancient woodlands. As well as the hamlet where you will be staying, the estate also boasts several other buildings, including an 11th-century Romanesque church and a castle now used for music events and private celebrations.
As you approach Borgo Merlo through the manicured grounds, you will find three stone homes, all close to each other, which can sleep twenty guests between them. Casa Una is the largest of the dwellings and can sleep eight guests. It has huge living areas where you can come together over evening drinks. Following these, there is a dining room where everyone can gather for dinner unless you prefer to dine al-fresco. The home also has a chic, well-equipped kitchen with everything you need to prepare meals for your party. Upstairs are two double bedrooms and one family-sized bedroom with a double bed and a sofa bed.
Just opposite is Casa Duo, which has five bedrooms, a bright and airy living room and a fully-fitted kitchen spread over two floors. The final dwelling is Casa Tre, with a gym, sauna and one double bedroom.
The garden has an inviting private pool, a jacuzzi, covered dining terraces and seating areas. There is also a vegetable garden where you can pick some fresh produce and use the pizza oven to make your own pizzas for dinner.
If you can bring yourself to leave Borgo Merlo, you can get to know the authentic heart of Tuscany by visiting nearby villages and walking scenic trails through the countryside. Some villages you could visit include Lecchi in Chianti, 5km away, Radda in Chianti, 8km away and Gaiole in Chianti, 14km away. These villages all have their own charm and character and are steeped in history.
You can also visit one of the vineyards that make up the Chianti wine region, where you can sample delicious wines, take tours of the cellars and the grounds and learn more about wine production.
Siena (32km away) and Florence (62km away) are a little further out. These magical, medieval cities are amazing places to spend the day and are filled with historical, artistic and cultural attractions.
What you should know…
- Borgo Merlo comprises three separate dwellings; one with three bedrooms, one with five bedrooms and one with one bedroom.
- Please note that while this property comfortably sleeps 22 guests, two guests will be accommodated on a sofabed.
- If you are travelling for a special event with a large group, you may require further accommodation; Casa Vedetta is close by, shares the same owners, and can sleep 14 guests.
- As the closest village is 5km we recommend that you bring a car, there are parking spaces available by the homes.
Property Features
Villa Interior
Main Building - Casa Uno (sleeps 10 guests)
Ground Floor
- 4 x bedrooms with double beds (160cm x 200cm) and en-suite bathroom with shower, double sink, bidet and WC
First Floor
- Landing with sofas, armchairs and Smart TV
- Fully-fitted kitchen with oven, hob, fridge freezer, dishwasher and coffee machine
- Bedroom with double bed (160cm x 200cm) and en-suite bathroom with shower, double sink, bidet and WC
Main Building - Casa Due (sleeps 6-8 guests)
Ground Floor
- Hall and entrance with 3 chairs
- Living room with sofas, armchairs, TV, DVD player and decorative fireplace
- Sitting room with armchairs
- Dining room with table seating 18 guests
- Fully-fitted kitchen with oven, hob, fridge freezer, dishwasher, microwave and coffee machine
First Floor
- 2 x bedrooms with double beds (160cm x 200cm) and en-suite bathrooms with showers, double sinks, bidets and WCs
- Family bedroom with double bed (160cm x 200cm) and dressing room with a double sofa bed (160cm x 200cm) and en-suite bathroom with bath tub, shower, double sink, bidet and WC
Annexe - Casa Tre (2-4 guests)
Ground Floor
- Fully equipped gym, yoga space and sauna
- Bedroom with double bed (160cm x 200cm)
- Bathroom with shower, double sink, bidet and WC
Mezzanine Floor:
- Double sofa bed
Outside Grounds
- Private heated (on request) swimming pool with saltwater purifying system (12m x 7m, max depth: 1.5m-1.8m)
- Bathroom with shower and changing room
- Outside shower
- Manicured gardens with lawns, olive trees and flower beds
- Large covered dining terrace
- Outdoor seating areas
- Jacuzzi
- Poolside terrace with sun loungers
- Vegetable garden
- Barbecue
- Pizza oven, wood burning oven, ice machine
- Parking
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Central heating
- Home cinema setting
- Gym
- Smart TVs
- Music system
- Table football
- Board games
- Washing machine
- Dryer
- Iron and ironing board
- Hairdryers
Location
About the surrounding area of Borgo MerloBorgo Merlo enjoys an idyllic countryside setting where you can walk, cycle, and take leisurely picnics on the expansive grounds and the wider estate. When you wish to head out for the day, you can choose between villages and towns such as Radda in Chianti, 8km away, or lively cities such as Siena, 32km away.
While holidaying in the Chianti area in Tuscany, it would be a shame to miss out on a visit to one of the local vineyards. The countryside enveloping the home is dotted with family-run vineyards and wineries which have produced wine for centuries. The 800-acre estate in which Borgo Merlo is set even has its own vast vineyard.
For a unique day out, why not visit Castello di Ama, 4.5km from the villa. The Castello is a stunning place with vineyards offering tours, wine tastings and a large shop to stock up on a few bottles for dinner. In addition, the Castello is also known for its art, as the estate is filled with contemporary art installations and sculptures by world-class artists.
When you wish to dine out in the evenings or pick up some fresh groceries, many towns and villages are within easy reach. The closest is Lecchi in Chianti which is just 5km away and is a small hamlet with a few rustic inns and pretty buildings on a hillside. From here, countless hiking and cycling routes through serene rolling hills can also be enjoyed on horseback.
If you are out walking in the area on a hot day, then the Pozze di Lecchi, a series of pools fed by natural springs, will be most welcome and a lovely spot for a summer dip. In the area around Lecchi, you will also find many castles erected when Florence and Siena warred over this region; some castles are Castello di Brolio and Castello di Meleto, both part of luxurious wine estates now.
For a wider range of shops, cafes and restaurants, you can drive 8km to Radda in Chianti. This rambling, medieval town is a lovely place to wander around, and you can stop off and see the Church of San Niccolò, the Palazzo dei Podestà and the restored centuries-old homes which line the atmospheric squares.
If you would like to spend a day visiting one of Tuscany’s amazing cities, then why not visit Siena, which is just 32km away. To see as much as possible, you should set off early to beat the crowds at some of the best-loved attractions, such as the stunning Duomo and the Palazzo Publico. You can climb up the Torre del Mangia, which is 800 years old, for the best views over the city. Horse lovers visiting in July or August should attend the Palio di Siena, a horse race held in the city twice a year. The whole town comes alive for the Palio, and you will see parades with medieval costumes, plus festivities filling the streets.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Florence Airport
(71km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Pisa International airport
(118km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Radda in Chianti
(8km) |
||
| Nearest City |
Siena
(30km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Radda in Chianti
(8km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Lecchi in Chianti
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
Lecchi in Chianti
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Le Miniere
(35km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
Tennis Club Staggia
(35km) |
||
Region
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the Chianti and Arezzo region is a captivating destination that effortlessly combines the rustic charm of the Italian countryside with rich historical heritage. This enchanting area is renowned for its rolling vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and quaint villages, making it a haven for travellers seeking an authentic taste of Italy.
Tuscany
With its rolling fields, historical heritage and a cuisine that’s a delight for all the senses, it’s no wonder Tuscany is one of the most popular regions in Italy for holidaymakers. Yet even with its popularity, you can still kick back in one of our luxury villas in Tuscany and feel peace, tranquillity and the joy of seclusion.
This is one destination that really does have a little bit of everything for everyone, whether you’re travelling with family, friends or are just looking for a romantic getaway with that special someone.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesBorgo Merlo is a delightful place to stay with children. As the home sleeps up to twenty guests, it is perfect for a trip with the extended family so all the cousins or family friends can make memories together in the huge gardens and private pool.
As well as plenty of wide-open countryside and small villages you can explore, you may want to drive to some of Tuscany’s incredible cities, such as Siena and Florence. Florence is an amazing city 62km from the villa, packed with medieval and Renaissance attractions that older children will love. Amongst the many museums and galleries dotted around Florence’s beautiful piazzas, you can find the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, which focuses on the scientific works and feats of engineering of Leonardo da Vinci. Here you can see reproductions of fifty of Da Vinci's machines and inventions, such as flying machines and tanks.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Heated Pool
- Indoor Games
- Table Football
- Home Cinema
Services Available
- Maid Service Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Maid Service Available
- Welcome Hamper Included
rAt Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Bike hire
Extras included at this property:
- Welcome hamper with seasonal items
- Bath gowns and slippers
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Maid service
- Electric car charge
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a hig...
Read moreEvent information
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a higher security deposit, which will be in addition to any published rental rates and fees.
All events are on request only and subject to prior agreement from the owner, who reserves the right to refuse all events without their prior authorisation.
| Security deposit | €1000 charged to client’s credit card as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €1000 charged to client’s credit card as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Minimum stay | 4 nights. All other durations are on request. |
| Changeover day | Flexible. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Pool heating charge? | Extra €700 per week, on request only. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Tax | Italian Visitors Tax payable locally in cash (typically costs €1-€10 per adult per night - please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Insurance | Guests are required to be in possession of a valid insurance policy, which covers them for cancellations, loss of personal belongings, personal liability and any accidental damage caused during their stay. |
| Internet access? | Wi-Fi internet access included. |
| Pool opening dates? | Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. Stag/hen parties are not allowed. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 20 people:
| Rental period | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 3rd 2024 - May 18th 2024 | £7,121 | £8,901 | £12,457 |
| May 18th 2024 - Jul 6th 2024 | £10,755 | £12,906 | £15,053 |
| Jul 6th 2024 - Aug 24th 2024 | £12,461 | £14,953 | £17,440 |
| Aug 24th 2024 - Oct 5th 2024 | £8,604 | £10,755 | £15,053 |
| Oct 5th 2024 - Mar 22nd 2025 | £7,121 | £8,901 | £12,457 |
| Mar 22nd 2025 - May 17th 2025 | £7,121 | £8,901 | £12,457 |
| May 17th 2025 - Jul 5th 2025 | £10,755 | £12,906 | £15,053 |
| Jul 5th 2025 - Aug 23rd 2025 | £12,461 | £14,953 | £17,440 |
| Aug 23rd 2025 - Oct 4th 2025 | £8,604 | £10,755 | £15,053 |
| Oct 4th 2025 - Nov 4th 2025 | £7,121 | £8,901 | £12,457 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
When did you become the owner?
The Barons of Ricasoli resided here until they sold the entire complex to the current owners in 1974.
What was it about the pro...
Read moreOwner Profile
When did you become the owner?
The Barons of Ricasoli resided here until they sold the entire complex to the current owners in 1974.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The unique atmosphere and stunning beauty of the castle and church, the 18th century villa, the surrounding medieval farmhouses and the 22 hectares of vineyards.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The central and oldest part of the estate is the Romanesque-Gothic parish church. It was built in the 11th century, although its first roots date even further back. As San Polo is situated on the border between Siena and Florence, the church and the adjoining rectory, the courtyard with its cistern and even the church tower were converted into a fortified castle in the 13th century. The large church is laid out as a three nave Romanesque basilica, and was renovated after a fire in gothic style in the 14th century. The vaulted ceilings of the main nave are decorated with outstanding frescos in the style of Ambrogio Lorenzetti. They date back to the year 1367 and portray the life of Christ.(The Chapel only opens at religious functions).
For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
- Must do?
Relax by the pool, pick fresh fruit and vegetables in the garden, have a pizza night with the wood-lit ovenVisit the Chianti Region: don’t miss the small villages, castles and of course Siena, Firenze, san Gimignano
- Must eat?
Meat, of course: book a table at one of Dario Cecchini’s restaurants in Panzano
- Must see?
Volpaia, Castello di Brolio, la piazza di Greve (don’t miss Falorni and its gourmet meat and salami), the Eroica bike race
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
This is Tuscany as it once was and how it should be, you’ll fall in love with the view and the silence.
Reviews
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Absolutely stunning!
Our already lofty expectations based on the pictures were blown away by the in person experience. The Villa is absolutely stunning, but equally cozy in a way the invites you to use the property and its numerous amenities. The bedrooms and bathrooms are 5 star luxury…and that goes for EVERY bedroom and bathroom.
There is so much thought put into everything with so many solutions in place to unanticipated needs. Truly inspired service and presentation. Unexpected things that we discovered on arrival that really made the stay so wonderful included (but not limited to): robes, sandals, glasses and chilled drinking water at the pool, bathroom/changing room at the pool, sparkling water on tap, indoor and outdoor ice machines, herb/veggie gardens, fig/olive trees, adjacent showers for pool/spa/sauna, and welcome platter of fruit, food and pasta.
The host was so responsive and available that any concern or question we had would immediately be answered. Including a lost and found service that had a forgotten shirt in the mail before we had returned home from our vacation. -
Fantastic experience!
Very nice location, tiptop facilities and high level of service. The owners had thought of everything plus a little extra for making our vacation a fantastic experience.
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More than you expect!
An incredibly great facility that offers everything - actually more than you expect! Perfect infrastructure, high-quality interior design, friendly and nice on-site support, spacious overall facility.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
