Montegufoni stands on the Via Volterrana, the road followed by
Charlemagne and the later emperors on their way to Florence or Rome. It originally
belonged to the Ormanni family, mentioned in the Divine Comedy. In 1972 it
was sold to Signor Sergio Posarelli, who proceeded to restore the castle. The views
from this hill are spectacular, promising beautiful sunsets and the scenery made famous by
Tuscan painters. Posarelli still manages the property and is on the premises.
The castle
retains some medieval traits which merge with the refinement and splendor of the
Renaissance. Just beyond the stately, severe facade you are struck by the primitive
austerity of the central courtyard. In the large saloon with its high, wide, sunny
windows, and in adjacent rooms, in the gently terraced gardens you can feel the gentle and
lively life of the property. You feel steeped in the illusory limelight and its
mysterious link with history. Views from the castle walls are superb in all
directions.
The castle houses
twenty eight apartments, all sharing the lovely grounds, the courtyards, the gardens and
the private swimming pool tucked away below the walls framing the entrance. Parking
is near the gate. On the garden level is a small Bar open Monday-Saturday as well as
a taverna: with advance notice you can arrange to dine here on Mondays, Wednesdays and
Fridays in season. Estate wines, olive oil and produce is sold at the reception and
in the Bar. You can order fresh rolls for morning delivery to the castle.
In addition to
the castle there are several simple and rustic dependencies on the grounds behind the
castle, and they have their own swimming pool. The closest village, Montagnana, can
be reached on foot in about ten minutes by the back road. Montespertoli, a large market
town, is only a few miles distant. A further enticement is the town of Montelupo,
fifteen minutes north, it has its own rail station on the main line into Florence.
Street parking is quite possible near the station, but tickets must be purchased first at
a nearby cafe! |
Touring to San Gigmignano, Voltera and Certaldo are easy trips, while
Siena and the Chianti countryside are all within a one hour drive. Florence is less than a
half-hour by car, but regular bus service from Montespertoli or train service from
Montelupo is attractive to avoid the congestion that naturally occurs during the touring
season. Telephone at entrance uses Italy Telecom phone card.
For prices please see
the description of each property. Final cleaning charges are listed by apartment.
Discounts for long stays. |
