2 Bedroom Farmhouse in spacious Grounds, including gardens, woodland and river.

‘Il Refugio’ is a charming, traditional, stone house, typical of this part of Abruzzo. The decor is tasteful and comfortable complimenting the rustic Italian characteristics, such as the vaulted ceiling in the kitchen and beamed ceiling in the lounge. The property is set in beautiful countryside with lovely views all around, including amazing views of the mountains, but is only a 10 minute drive from the beautiful, ancient walled town of Penne. The house and grounds are accessed directly from tarmac roads. The house sleeps 4/5 – in two good sized double bedrooms. The fully equipped kitchen, with gas hob, electric oven, log burning stove, table and chairs, has everything necessary for preparing exciting dishes from locally sourced fresh food. The vaulted ceilings add an extremely characteristic touch. There is a walk-in pantry, meaning that if you decide to ‘do a big shop’ at the start of your holiday, storage certainly won’t be a problem. The relaxing lounge has a log burning stove, flat wall mounted television, CD /DVD Player and 2 comfortable settees. There is an wide choice of books and DVDs. The family bathroom has a full size bath and shower. The walls are two feet thick making the house cool in summer and warm in the cooler months. The ground floor utility/wash room, containing toilet, bidet, sink and washing machine, is a useful place to keep your walking shoes and beach items. Another room has a large fridge/freezer. The house is centrally heated. Wi-fi internet available. The ‘pièce de résistance’ is surely the garden, with its spectacular views of the Gran Sasso mountains. There is an expansive paved area around the house, which is flat and spacious. The large, permanent gazebo and covered patio areas give shade, whilst there are plenty of sunny areas too – perfect for sun worshippers and shade seekers alike! The garden was designed with entertainment, fun and relaxation in mind, and it has certainly succeeded. The covered areas mean that it is ideal for all-weather outdoor eating. Plus, the abundant amount of outside lights around the patio area and the confines of the garden, give so much light that meals can enjoyed outside at any time of day or night. There is a large table, many outside chairs and a barbecue. The garden, including some of the meadowland, is fully fenced, with a gated entrance, providing security and ample parking, as well as a safe area for pets to roam. From the ornamental garden around the house, you can follow steps down to the 7.5 acre grounds, which include meadow areas and woodland. First, you will encounter a swing, plus a picnic bench on a flat grassy area below the garden. The land reaches all the way to the river, through private woods, which create a haven for a host of birds and wildlife. Within the extensive grounds of ‘Il Refugio’, you can enjoy a piece of the beautiful countryside of Abruzzo, without having to leave ‘home!’ Perfect for a quiet, peaceful holiday set between the coast (30mins) and the mountains (45mins). There are wide, sandy beaches at Montesilvano, Silvi Marina and Pineto for swimming / sunbathing and a large network of signposted walks in the mountains for walkers. For those looking for a relaxing break away from the stresses of modern life, ‘Il Refugio’ is the ideal place to stay. Arrival at 'Il Refugio': - On your arrival, you will be met by an English person, who lives in the local area. She will be on-hand throughout your stay, if you need any help or advice. If you are too tired to shop or cook when you arrive - we can book you a table at Il Refugio's local restaurant, where Rita and her family will be happy to serve you delicious seasonal and local food. Please let us know a few days before your arrival date, to ensure there is a table free for you. Also, your welcome pack contains a bottle of wine, and some food items for your supper and breakfast the next morning.