Monica’s Vineyard B&B (#642)
Nestled in the Tuscan hills near Florence with romantic vista across grapevines and olive groves over to historical Montecatini Alto.
Authentic Tuscan country hospitality, Monica and her Mamma Piera offer comfortable, recently restored lodgings along with divine meals in a traditional countryside ambience that is conveniently just a 20min drive from the world famous city of Florence.
Having always dreamed of establishing her own vineyard with accommodation, Monica gave up her work in the fashion industry in 2000 and embarked on the ambitious project of transforming a Tuscan stone farmhouse into an oasis of good food and wine in an authentic Tuscan setting.
While restoration commenced on the farmhouse she donned on her gumboots and revived the overgrown grapevines, ancient olive trees and uncovered the many country trails on the property that had not been used for several decades. The first guests were welcomed in April 2007 and Monica is delighted to be finally realising her lifelong dream.
The farmhouse has been divided into 4 apartments spread over 2 levels. All have been tastefully restored and furnished with well appointed bathrooms and one also has kitchen facilities. A daily continental breakfast [complete with homemade cakes] is included in the tariff and Monica can also provide fresh farm eggs any style or pancakes and waffles if preferred having spent time in the States. The lunches and dinners are excellent value at euro 20 p/p if you prefer to relax at the farmhouse after a long day of sightseeing.
Monica’s vineyard is the only in the entire Pistoia region that in 2008 will harvest their own grapes and produce a completely organic wine in the estate’s own cellar. Their cold pressed olive oil is excellent and the property has many fruit trees including apricot, plum, pear and apple in addition to the carefully tended vegetable patch.
Mamma Piera, whose parents owned a bustling restaurant on the outskirts of Florence [also throughout the Second World War] works wonders in the kitchen and you could not wish for more authentic Tuscan fare. From home made pasta to spare ribs cooked over the fire, roasted meats, home grown fresh vegetables and rigorously homemade desserts. The ingredients are certified organic, both those from the estate and the few that need to be brought in. The restaurant is also regularly patronised by locals particularly at weekends adding to the already genuine & convivial ambience.
The property is south facing with mountains behind providing shelter from wind and with the coast not far away, the climate is milder in the winter and yet not stifling during the summer months.
The city of Montecatini Terme is less than 10mins by car and is famous for its’ thermal spas and health and beauty treatments. Montecatini Alto was built over the centuries around a castle of Romanesque origin and may be reached taking the panoramic country road or the Funicular service.
Ideally located 40 km from Florence and 40 km from the seaside, on the autostrada [motorway] both may be reached in 20mins. The city of Lucca is 15 mins and Pisa 30 mins by car as is the famous ski resort of L’Abetone.
The Apartments may be rented individually or larger groups may book the entire farmhouse.
La Vigna [sleeps 2 - 4]
Situated on the ground floor, consists of one double bedroom, well appointed bathroom with shower plus a sofa/divan that transforms into additional bed.
L’Albicocco [sleeps 4]
Also on the ground floor, consists of one double bedroom plus second featuring 2 singles, well appointed bathroom with shower and kitchen facilities.
Il Corbezzolo [sleeps 2 - 4]
Located on the first floor it features a double bedroom plus sofa/divan that transforms into an additional bed along with well appointed bathroom with shower. This apartment enjoys the very best view of the picturesque surrounding Tuscan countryside and historical Montecatini Alto.
L’Ulivo [sleeps 2 - 4]
On the first level, consists of one double bedroom plus a second featuring 2 singles along with well appointed bathroom with shower.
The Rates
| Rates in EUROs | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| unit | per night * | per week | |
| La Vigna [sleeps 2- 4] | 105 | 650 | |
| L’Albicocco [sleeps 4] | 125 | 790 | |
| Il Corbezzolo [sleeps 2- 4] | 110 | 690 | |
| L’Ulivo [sleeps 2 - 4] | 105 | 650 | |
* Minimum 2 nights
A daily breakfast is included in the rates, optional 4 course lunches and dinners are available at euro 20 p/p plus wine.
The rates are inclusive of power, gas and final cleaning but exclude any central heating costs when required.
Quoted rates are for High Season [1 May to Sept 30, Xmas and Easter] a 15 – 20% discount may be applied during the quieter months.