Charming Historic Centre Property with Garden

Casa del Pretorio is a charming traditional Tuscan house nestled on a hillside in the heart of the Medieval village of Vicopisano. The house is the perfect location for those looking for a typically Tuscan ambiance, an ideal base for exploring Tuscany or a peaceful retreat for families and friends. Situated down a cobbled lane under the watchful eye of a Medieval Palace and Ancient Tower, the house dates back to the 1800s and has lovely views over the Medieval village and surrounding hills. Casa del Pretorio's unique position nestled in the hillside does mean that it may not be suitable for those with mobility problems (please see accessibility details). The property has been furnished with modern living in mind, however Casa del Pretorio retains traditional features such as beamed ceilings, exposed stone walls and terracotta pavements. Modern conveniences include Wifi internet connection, satellite TV and Play Station. Casa del Pretorio is situated close to the village amenities all of which are within walking distance. There is a restaurant within walking distance plus a pizzeria, and 3 traditional bars serving breakfast pastries, snacks, cold drinks, tea, coffee, wine, beers and other alcoholic beverages. The sleepy town of Vicopisano is full of character especially in its Medieval center where Casa del Pretorio is situated. The house is just a stone’s throw away from Brunelleschi's Medieval Fortress and the 12th Century Praetorian Palace both of which are open to the public at the weekends. Vicopisano is the ideal base for exploring Tuscany being close to Pisa, Lucca and Florence and many other must see sites within the region. The immediate area is also perfect for discovering a more authentic traditional Tuscany. Visitors to the area may visit an organic olive farm and see how extra virgin oil is made, there is also a ceramics workshop where an artisan potter still sits at the wheel. In addition there is the opportunity to take part in cooking lessons and discover the nearby vineyards for wine-tasting. For those who love outdoor activities Vicopisano has the perfect terrain for walking, trekking, cycling and mountain biking. There are nearby stables for those who would like to ride. Within 30 minutes you can visit the coast and beaches, thermal spa and golf courses. Bedrooms: FIRST FLOOR MASTER BEDROOM - Sleeps 2 in Queen size (USA) double FIRST FLOOR SINGLE ROOM - Sleeps 1 in single bed SECOND FLOOR DOUBLE/TWIN ROOM - Sleeps 2 in twin or double Queen size bed Bathrooms: FIRST FLOOR FAMILY BATHROOM The good sized bathroom is situated between the master and single bedroom. The room has a bath with a shower attachment, washbasin, WC & bidet. There is a cute little window with views to the top of the Brunelleschi Tower. SECOND FLOOR BATHROOM - En suite to twin/double bedroom. Shower, hand basin, WC, bidet KITCHEN The kitchen is accessed by 6 steps from the dining room. The kitchen is fully equipped for cooking at home - there is a fridge freezer, hob, microwave, washing machine and even a special table for making fresh pasta! LIVING ROOM As you enter the house the living room is on the left. This room has character beamed ceilings, exposed stone walls in part and traditional interiors . There is enough comfortable seating for 6 people, satellite TV, DVD player and Play Station. CONSERVATORY There are 3 steps up to the conservatory which is a lovely space for relaxing. The room has a nautical theme with lounge style furniture. The large windows open out to an exposed stone walled area where there are two lemon trees. CLEANING/TOWELS Final cleaning, all bed linens are towels are included in the rental price. Towels and bed linen are changed on request for stays up to 7 nights and incurs a small fee. A change of bed linen and towels is included for stays of more than 7 nights. ACCESSIBILITY The property is situated on a hillside in the centre of the Medieval village. To access the front door from the car park it is approximately 300 meters. From the car park you will negotiate a village lane with a small ramp and a series of 5 steps - after the steps there is approx 50 meters of lane then 12 steps up to the lane where the house is. There are 7 steps to the front door. GARDEN AND TERRACE There is a large ground floor patio and an upper terrace garden to dine alfresco or just relax. The ground floor patio faces South West and is a complete suntrap. There is a table and seating for 6 and benches to relax on. The upper terrace garden has the shade of some trees and a summer gazebo and can be accessed by 33 steps. A BBQ and summer gazebo can be found on the upper level garden. Both the outside areas have wonderful views. HIGHLIGHTS AND EXTRAS WELCOME PACK We provide a Welcome Pack on arrival including a bottle of chilled Prosecco, fresh seasonal fruit, a selection of tea, coffee, fresh milk & sugar. ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE For your convenience we provide a starter pack which includes bathroom hand soap and shower gel, toilet paper, washing machine detergent & washing up liquid. PARKING Easy free and safe parking is available in the village approximately 400 meters from the property. Plus there is a private parking space above the house. Please read our notes on accessibility. ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TIME Arrival from 4.00PM up to 11pm. Departure up to 10.00AM. In some cases we can be flexible on arrival and departure time, please contact us before making your booking. Arrival after midnight and requested late departures may incur additional charges. NO SMOKING POLICY There is a no smoking policy within the property, however smoking is allowed on the outside terraces and garden. SERVICES & ACTIVITIES We can organize a range of activities and experiences for guests, such as cooking lessons, guided walks and bike hire, for more details please contact us. Pet friendly - Please enquire Check in from 4.00pm - 10.00pm Stays for 3 - 4 nights will incur a €45 cleaning fee which can be paid in cash on departure. Final cleaning included for a stay of 5 nights or more