La Rimbecca
Greve-in-Chianti, Italy

La Rimbecca a mediaeval farmhouse, is situated almost exactly half way between Florence and Siena, two of the most popular tourist cities in Tuscany.

Set at the end of 1.5 miles of Tuscan white road (not asphalted) with extensive views over Greve-in-Chianti and the Tuscan hills - as far as Florence to the North. The road beyond the house becomes no more than a track and there is virtually no vehicle traffic. It is possible therefore to enjoy the tranquility of the hills of Tuscany in near total seclusion.

We have attempted to retain the historic character of the house, whilst providing modern amenities required for self-catering accomodation in Tuscany, many traditional features have been retained and adapted to provide the maximum enjoyment of this lovely old building.

Accommodation

On entering the house turn left through the door; down three steps is the main living room. Off this room to the right of the traditional Tuscany fireplace is a small WC with a toilet and hand basin.

Turn right after entering the house along a short corridor where there is a small bookcase containing some holiday reading. Through the door and down three steps is:- 

Kitchen/dining room:- There is a gas hob and oven, a fridge freezer and sink with a dishwasher and storage cupboards under and shelves over.

The dining room:- is separated from the kitchen by a beautiful rebuilt stone arch. Both rooms were originally stabling for animals and the manger top has been retained but redesigned as drawers, some fitted for glasses, cutlery and kitchen utensils.

Ground floor twin bedroom:- is approached through the door to the left of the kitchen worktop. Being on the ground floor it provides convenient accommodation for those for whom stairs are a problem.

Halfway down the corridor to the main bedroom on the right is a smaller twin bedroom:-  This is an ideal childrens' bedroom but is adequate for two adults.

The bathroom:- is between this room and the main bedroom.

The main bedroom:- accommodation is at first floor level. Up the stairs and to your right, at the end of the corridor, is the main double bedroom. There is ample hanging and storage space in the cupboard and storage in the oak chest for spare pillows and blankets.

Second double bedroom:- with ensuite shower room 

The fifth bedroom:-  is in the first floor apartment approached through the gothic arch and up the covered outside stairs

The fifth bedroom:- is twin bedded with a shower room with WC ensuite.

The covered BBQ area:- conveniently situated close to the kitchen, will seat ten people under cover. Olive pruning for kindling and firewood for the BBQ are available free on request. It can be a welcome refuge from the sun on really hot days; or half shade can be achieved by moving the table into the shade of the adjoining olive tree.

The old arched building beside the swimming pool is set up as a table tennis room with an all weather table. It is useful for storing poolside furniture when not in use. There is also a fridge/freezer for keeping drinks cool, saving a lot of walking in hot weather.

Places to visit

Greve-in-Chianti:-  The centre of the Chianti wine industry. The present town has 17th century origins, unusual for an area of generally mediaeval towns and villages. The 17th century triangular arcaded Piazza is unique. There are good shops, some expensive, and a popular weekly market in the Piazza. There are many restaurants, several in the Piazza.

Montefioralle:- This attractive walled village was the second major settlement in the area, after Montegonzi, the neighbouring property to La Rimbecca. When finally the population outgrew it in the 17th century the present town of Greve-in-Chianti grew up. It is well worth a visit.

Panzano:-  An interesting mediaeval town, it was originally fortified but only portions of the old walls and fortifications remain. There are several good restaurants and quality shops including a modern pharmacy with an English speaking owner and adjoining doctor's surgery. There is a thriving Sunday Market - useful for Saturday arrivals - and a fresh fish van on Tuesday mornings.

Castellina-in-Chianti:- For those who remember the "Floyd in Italy" TV series the opening episode was filmed in the mediaeval square. It is on the way to Siena and is worth a short diversion having some good restaurants and an excellent pizzeria.

Florence:-  is about an hour's drive north. It is worth considering going by bus from Greve-in-Chianti as there frequent buses which terminate in the city centre within a few minutes walk of all the main attractions; the Duomo and Baptistry, the Uffitzi Gallery, the Piazza della Signoria,the Ponte Vecchio and the daily market.

These are just a few. Please see our website for more places to visit.

For further information please visit our website:-    www.self-catering-in-tuscany.com

Email:-         david_fitzgerald05@tiscali.co.uk

Or Telephone - UK    01892 722556