La Valle

There are a limited number of villas that have La Valle’s combination of stunning views, real seclusion and the chance to pick up fresh bread every morning after a 10-minute walk through olive groves. This neat, restored hay barn sits near the top of a hill overlooking Lecchi, a small village in the heart of Chianti. Its three bedrooms and generous garden comfortably absorb up to six people and will suit groups of family or friends equally. The shaded section of terrace just outside the kitchen-diner is a lovely spot for al-fresco meals and the private pool is a glorious retreat. At twilight, so quiet are the surroundings that you’re likely to see deer along the garden’s fences. La Valle is excellently placed for exploring Chianti’s fabulous cuisine and wines – the region’s vineyards and most popular small towns, such as Radda and Gaiole, are short drives away. Should you want a dose of high Renaissance culture, Siena and Florence can both be reached within an hour. Since almost every village in this area boasts an excellent trattoria, and that includes Lecchi and nearby San Sano, the only problem may be watching your waistline. What’s more, with a pair of sturdy shoes, one can easily walk to Lecchi alongside the river that runs by the villa’s border. Ground Floor Lounge Sofa, two armchairs, coffee table, cabinet, bench, open fireplace, double doors to grounds. Kitchen-Diner Fully equipped, dining table and chairs, sideboard, double doors to terrace. Bedroom 1 Double bed (cannot be converted to twins), wardrobe, side table, chair, double doors to terrace. Bedroom 2 Double bed (cannot be converted to twins), wardrobe, side table, chair. Bathroom Shower, sink, WC. External Laundry Room Washing machine. First Floor Lounge-Kitchen-Diner Sofa, fully equipped kitchenette, table and chairs, fireplace, doors to terrace. Bedroom 3 Double bed (cannot be converted to twins), wardrobe, chest of drawers, chair. En-suite Bathroom Shower, sink, WC. Our Thoughts The beautifully kept garden and pool, with their views of neighbouring hills and medieval castles (you can see Brolio and Monteluco from the top terrace) are La Valle’s crowning glories. But if there are members of your party who would appreciate some quiet space as well as being part of a larger group, the villa’s first floor is a bonus. Its terrace and separate entrance, en-suite bedroom and living space with its own kitchenette offer the chance to beat strategic retreats – which can be great for older parents, for example. Notes Three bedrooms. Two bathrooms, one en-suite. The final kilometre of the approach road is unpaved but in good condition, the last part of the approach is steep. The pool is a constant depth of over 1.35m therefore care needs to be taken with young children or non-swimmers. Fire Place: Stove Pool A paved terrace that gives onto lawn surrounds the pool; it is furnished with sunloungers and two large umbrellas. Nearby, a bamboo-covered pergola shades a small table and chairs. The rectangular pool is accessed by internal steps at one end. On the path down to the pool, there is an outdoor shower. Pool size: 10m x 5m, 1.35m deep. Open May to mid September, weather permitting.