Villa Fratini
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Overview
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This historic and beautifully renovated villa is ideally located for day trips to Florence and Siena. Villa Fratini is surrounded by its own private gardens and picturesque Tuscan countryside but, conveniently, is just five minutes to the nearest motorway junction. The vibrant town of Terranuova Bracciolini is a short drive away, offering all the local amenities you may need during your holiday. There are two nature reserves in the Arezzo province and the beautiful River Arno is just minutes away.
Villa Fratini sleeps up to twelve guests and provides the most exquisite accommodation for large family groups or friends gathering together for a holiday or celebration. A dwelling of some sort has existed on this site since before the ancient Romans, and it has a rich history through the centuries. A discerning architect started its renovation in the 1980s, culminating in the romantic holiday home enjoyed today.
The large covered entrance is a peaceful place to sit, and features a pizza oven for al fresco cooking. Once inside, the ground floor is mostly open-plan but divided into sections thanks to the original vaulted ceiling and arches. Elegant furniture and large windows provide a welcoming living and dining space, and the large kitchen features professional-quality equipment. An attractive al fresco dining terrace and veranda leads away from the kitchen, creating a space for all twelve guests to come together and dine outdoors, morning, noon and night. From here, you can explore the delightful garden, which boasts a huge number of plants, trees and fruits, including an olive grove, cypresses and figs. Your private pool is flanked by sun loungers and a terrace for soaking up the Italian sun and snoozing through the afternoon.
You’ll find five bedrooms on the first floor, including three double rooms – two en-suite – and two twin rooms. All feature air conditioning and tasteful, colour-coordinated décor. The ancient lookout tower, adjoining the villa, is home to an additional twin bedroom and bathroom, making it ideal for those seeking their own space. The views from here are spectacular.
What you should know…
- A twin bedroom enjoys its own space in the ancient lookout tower. Guests are rewarded with breath-taking views of the valley
- Please be aware that this is a two-storey villa and the garden slopes downhill to the olive groves and fruit trees
- Air conditioning is featured in the bedrooms, kitchen and living room
This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!
Our great value homes:
- may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
- may have some simple amenities and features
- mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!
Property Features
Villa Interior
Ground Floor (170m2)
- Large loggia including comfortable seating and pizza oven
- Entrance hall leads to spacious living and dining room, divided into four sociable areas including old fireplace
- Fabulous kitchen equipped with professional-standard oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher, fridge, freezer, coffee maker and toaster. Leads out to dining terrace
- Pantry with second fridge
- Guest bathroom and shower
- Laundry room with washing machine and dryer
- Storage room with fridge
First Floor (155m2)
- Small living room with television and open fireplace
- Bedroom 1 with double bed and en-suite shower room
- Bedroom 2 with double bed and en-suite bathroom and shower over bathtub
- Bedroom 3 with double bed and adjacent bathroom including double sink and shower
- Bedroom 4 & 5 with twin beds (can be made into double) sharing ans adjacent bathroom with shower
- Small study room with PC and printer
The Tower
- Medieval tower renovated and furnished, with twin bedroom and bathroom
Outside Grounds
- Large verandah and dining terrace with barbecue
- Two hectares of lawns and gardens, featuring up to 200 plant varieties, an olive grove and fruit trees
- Private pool (8m x 4m, open approximately mid Mid May - Mid October)
Facilities
- Wi-Fi (villa and garden)
- Smart TV
- DVD player
- CD player
- Bose music speaker - portable
- Computer and printer
- Air conditioning in all bedrooms, kitchen and living room
- 2 x fireplaces
- Hairdryers in all bathrooms
- Windows screens in all bedrooms and kitchen
- Electric gates and private parking
- Pizza oven
- Barbecue
- Bose music sound system
- Table tennis
Location
About the surrounding area of Villa FratiniVilla Fratini lies in the heart of Tuscany and the beautiful Valdarno valley. This special area is brimming with nature reserves, wonderful towns and cities and the River Arno runs through mile after mile of stunning scenery. You’re just a few minutes outside of the small town of Terranuova Bracciolini and despite being surrounded by peaceful countryside, a motorway junction for the A1 is just five minutes away. You also have a bus stop just outside the villa gates.
Terranuova Bracciolini is small medieval Florentine town, complete with old piazza, historic centre and fourteenth century churches. You’ll also find mouth-watering eateries serving local dishes, including the irresistible variety of cakes, typical in the Arezzo area. Look out for baldino or gattò to complete the perfect meal.
With the incredible city of Florence just under one hour’s drive north of Villa Fratini, and Arezzo about thirty minutes south, you’re wonderfully situated for visiting the principal cities in this eastern part of Tuscany. Home to the iconic Duomo of Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore and world-famous Renaissance art, you may need more than one day trip to Florence, as simply wandering the old streets is a delight in itself.
Arezzo sits on top of a hill, overlooking four valleys, and has history dating back to the Stone Age. Today, it’s a vibrant place to visit with cultural landmarks including a Roman Amphitheatre, Medicean Fortress and Church of San Francesco. If your legs grow tired of sightseeing, head to Piazza Grande for a cooling drink, whilst watching the Italian world go by.
If you want to explore the countryside near Villa Fratini, the River Arno runs past Terranuova Bracciolini and up to Florence. You can enjoy the peace on a walking or cycling trail alongside the river, try paddle boarding or take a boat trip for a view of Florence from the water. The Balze Natural Protected Area (11km) extends up to Regello and is a unique landscape of eroded ravines, stone pillars and cliffs. It’s so spectacular, that Michelangelo features it in more than one of his paintings, including the Mona Lisa.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Florence
(60 km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Perugia
(122 km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Terranuova Bracciolini
(400 m) |
||
| Nearest Town |
San Giovanni Valdarno
(7 km) |
||
| Nearest City |
Arezzo
(40 km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Terranuova Bracciolini
(400 m) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
Terranuova Bracciolini
(800 m) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Terranuova Bracciolini
(1 km) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Terranuova Bracciolini
(500 m) |
||
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 AgesWith its six bedrooms, Villa Fratini is a fabulous house for large family gatherings and celebrations. And as well as playing in the private garden and pool, you can explore the wonderful cities of Florence and Arezzo, enjoy family walks or take to the cycling trails along the River Arno and visit the awe-inspiring scenery of Le Balze.
You also have Valle dell’Inferno e Bandella about half-an-hour’s drive south of your villa. It’s a vast nature reserve boasting dramatic waterways, oak forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife. Bring a picnic and make a day of it.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- <1hr to Airport
- Cycling
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Table Tennis
- DVD
Services Available
- Breakfast Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Cooking Classes Available
- Transfers Available
- Breakfast Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
At 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 transfers
Extras included at this property:
- Mid-stay cleaning twice per week (Monday and Thursday from 2.30 to 5.30 p.m) - included in the end of stay cleaning fee
Extras available at this property (payable locally, to book in advance):
- Extra cleaning/maid service
- Towel/linen change
- Local day-trips or tours
- Private drivers for day-trips
- Car transfers
- Pre-stocked fridge/grocery shopping for arrival
- Chef
- Cooking classes
- Breakfast
Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team.
Please note that all services are subject to availability and must be requested in advance and that due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. Prices are on request. 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
| Security deposit | 2023: €500 paid in cash to the owner upon arrival and refunded upon departure, subject to full inspection. 2024: €600 paid in cash to the owner upon arrival and refunded upon departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5pm - 7.30pm (late arrivals until 10.30pm are possible on request only and may be subject to extra charges). |
| Departure time | 9.30am |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | 2023: €500 paid in cash to the owner upon arrival and refunded upon departure, subject to full inspection. 2024: €600 paid in cash to the owner upon arrival and refunded upon departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5pm - 7.30pm (late arrivals until 10.30pm are possible on request only and may be subject to extra charges). |
| Departure time | 9.30am |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Extra €400, payable locally (also includes mid-stay cleaning twice per week). 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. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes, excluding A/C (charged on consumption, payable locally.). |
| Heating costs included? | Extra charge, based on consumption and payable locally. |
| Minimum stay | 5 nights in low season. 7 nights otherwise. |
| Changeover day | Flexible in low season. Saturday otherwise, |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Insurance | Guests are required to be in possession of a valid insurance policy, which covers them for cancellations, personal belongings, public liability and any accidental damage caused during their stay. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately May to October. 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. |
| Internet access? | Wi-Fi connection included. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A/C is in bedrooms, kitchen and living room. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A cot is available on request. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 12 people:
| Rental period | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|
| Apr 23rd 2024 - Jun 22nd 2024 | £4,072 | £5,185 |
| Jun 22nd 2024 - Aug 31st 2024 | - | £6,082 |
| Aug 31st 2024 - Oct 5th 2024 | £4,072 | £5,185 |
| Oct 5th 2024 - Dec 21st 2024 | £3,444 | £4,387 |
| Dec 21st 2024 - Jan 11th 2025 | - | £6,082 |
| Jan 11th 2025 - Mar 29th 2025 | £3,444 | £4,387 |
| Mar 29th 2025 - Jun 21st 2025 | £4,072 | £5,185 |
| Jun 21st 2025 - Aug 30th 2025 | - | £6,082 |
| Aug 30th 2025 - Oct 4th 2025 | £4,072 | £5,185 |
| Oct 4th 2025 - Oct 25th 2025 | £3,444 | £4,387 |
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.
● How long have you owned the property?We bought the property in 2006. it was run down, no garden, no pool etc…In 2006-2007 Elena, the architect owner, took...
Read moreOwner Profile
● How long have you owned the property?We bought the property in 2006. it was run down, no garden, no pool etc…In 2006-2007 Elena, the architect owner, took care of the renovation workstdown to the finest detail - from the building structure to the textiles.
● What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The location and the well laid out spaces. The villa is at the same time near the little town of terranuova ( less then 1 km) and a private retreat immersed in nature. It is also very well connected: it is 5 mins by car from the A1 valdarno motor way exit and in less than 1 hour and a half you can reach all the must sees in Tuscany. Indoors, the space lends itself easily to smooth switching from communal activities to private relax.
● Are there any interesting stories in its history?
In the middle ages it belonged to a nearby parish and used to offer a welcome stop and refreshment for pilgrims on their way from Rome to fiesole along the via francigena. It was later owned by a branch of the medici family of Florence. During the 1800s one of the family landlords was very interested in plants and cultivation so he planted most of the beautiful cypresses you can admire around the villa and various different types of trees and shrubs, some of which are very uncommon. Due to its position on top of a hill during the second World War it served as a base and watch-out tower for the American and British troops that were stationed here.
● Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Yes, we have. we have had a worldwide renown american novelist, a famous politician, a film director, a magazine editor, a blogger, and many others..
● For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
must do?
Sightseeing during the day – visit wineries and villages and then come back home, gather in the kitchen, have fun cooking and relax by the pool drinking wine while watching the sunset. Experience wine tasting in the comfort of your home with our knowledgeable sommelier.
must eat?
Our chef's hand made pasta, florentine steak and tiramisu; pizza by the metre cooked by our pizzaiolo in the old oven under the loggia entrance
must see?
Florence, Arezzo, Cortona, San Gimignano, Montepulciano, Siena and the Chianti area. Off the beaten track: Loro Ciuffenna and the church of Gropina , Bandella nature reserve, the museums in Montevarchi, San Giovanni and Masaccio's house.
For those interested in fashion: Prada outlet 10 minutes away by car and Incisa mall for the best italian brands, 15 minutes away on the motorway
● What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
The best icecream (gelato) in Tuscany – “Cassia vetus“ - is to be found in Terranuova as well as the best delicatessen in the area – “la sapientia”.
The best spot for walks and trekking in the valdarno area, the “balze“, is in piantravigne, a little village in the municipality of terranuova. The balze are rugged hills, the original result of the drainage of the pliocene lake which covered the whole area millions of years ago. you can spot them in leonardo's la gioconda, behind the lady's back. Also, do not miss the Oasi di bandella- the natural reserve of the valley of hell bandella – a protected natural area along the Arno valley.
Reviews
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A beautiful refuge
I can’t recommend the villa highly enough. It is beautifully designed and furnished, with a host of features, superb kitchen, and fantastic gardens and surroundings. You could easily spend the whole week here. If you do leave, Florence and Siena are both within an hour’s drive, and the local train station connects with both. There are multiple supermarkets within close driving distance, and you can walk into the local town for fresh bread. The hosts are perfect, and make you feel at home but without intruding.
We had a wonderful holiday - a real tonic in difficult times! -
Simply love this beautiful villa
We love it here! Thank you for everything! We have enjoyed the pool, had some great food and simply love this beautiful villa.
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This place is magical
Staying at Villa Fratini feels like being 'home'. Every attention here, details that will never be forgotten. Elena, Laura, Simona thank you for being so great every year with us. We will miss you so much. So many fabulous memories in this place. Looking forward to our next stay hopefully soon. Our family has grown there, each year we come with a new member, such a blessing. This place is magical, we love Villa Fratini.
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Perfecto!
Your villa is perfecto! I will tell my friends about it. Staying here gave me a whole different experience of Italy. All the best.
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Amazing vacation
We had an amazing vacation at your villa. Thank you for allowing us to enjoy your beautiful home.
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Perfect setting
Thank you for our wonderful week in Tuscany at Villa Fratini. We had a fabulous vacation celebrating '18 years of life' with family from Israel. The dinner with chef Francesca were delicious and our day trips were all very special. One highlight was our lunch in the wine cellar (despite the rain!) Laura - your recommendations were greatly appreciated. The villa is beautifully furnished and managed to provide ample space for all 3 families to co-exist under one roof. We all had a very memorable and unique vacation. Thank you for providing the perfect setting for all of us.
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Absolutely stunning
Thank you Laura and Elena for the most wonderful week celebrating 50th and 60th birthdays. Your villa is absolutely stunning and your attention to detail is perfection! We only wish we had more time to relax and enjoy it here. Our dinner cooked be Francesca was the perfect end and our memories will last a lifetime. Till next time - grazie & ciao.
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Precious memories
So much happiness returning to this beautiful place. Each time we build more precious memories we already want to come back. Thank you Elena and Laura and your staff.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
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