Casa Giardino is in the very small village of Spalanni in the "secret" valley known as the Casentino and situated 50 km (28 Miles) east of Florence. There are ancient stone cottages, nestling above the larger villages of Strada di Casentino and Castel San Niccolo. Spalanni originated within the historical confines of a 13th Century convent and the unique chapel is open to visitors through the summer. We enjoy spectacular views across the valley and the hills beyond. There is a nearby grocery shop selling local produce but a wider range of local shops are to be found in Strada only five minutes away by car. There are two banks with ATM; the inspiring bakery also has a deliciously stocked delicatessen and grocery sections; the butcher who is a specialist in the Casentino steak; vegetable and fruit shops; restaurants and bars; dry cleaner and newsagents etc. The town of Bibbiena is about 20 minutes drive and Arezzo, which is the provincial capital, is less than one hour’s drive away. The house is well placed to simply settle into the pace of calm rural life but also a perfect base to explore the great treasures of Tuscany. Visits to Florence, Chianti, Sienna, Cortona and even Rome can be reached by train from Arezzo in an hour. This large house has been extensively restored and refurbished to a very high standard whilst maintaining authenticity and atmosphere. The house is ideal for families with children of all ages and the 1.5m deep pool is a welcome attraction. Dogs are very welcome here too and the gardens are safely enclosed. The fitted kitchen is generously equipped for those who love cooking. The cooker has four gas rings and a large grill and electric oven and there is also a microwave and fridge/freezer. It is great to sample the local Tuscan food in the numerous superb local restaurants but try the fabulous local produce to create special Tuscan dishes of your own and relax under the cooling shade of the grapevine terrace or enjoy the grand views on your own beautiful and private balcony. There are two double bedrooms within Casa Giardino, the second bedroom can be configured into a double or twin bedded room. We can also accommodate a 5th person and the bed will be set upstairs in the sitting room. The first floor sitting room is comfortable and newly refurbished, with a large television and a DVD player. We supply a good selection of DVDs and books for our guest’s enjoyment. The house combines a sense of history with the added convenience of modern living. The bright and sunny bathroom at the front of the house is fitted with shower, basin, toilet and bidet. We supply plenty of bathroom towels and also extra towels for use around the pool. The property has full central heating for the colder months and in the dining room there is an efficient wood burner in a traditional Tuscan fireplace. Logs are plentiful. We have unlimited WIFI and there is free access available in Strada and at the local bars and restaurants. Outside we enjoy large and beautiful private gardens, a large 8x5m and 1.5m deep swimming pool and sun terraces for your own private use. Guests returning after a long hot day of sightseeing, can dip into the refreshing sun warmed pool. It is wonderful to relax in the peaceful garden and laze the day away in the sunshine or under the shade of our fig tree, olive trees, or in the cool ambiance of our house. In the gardens there are interesting features and aromatic herbs and trees: fig, pear, cherry, plum, cherry and olive trees and a canopy of grapevines. During 2016, we planted two new Cherry trees for future generations to enjoy. When in season, the fruit and garden herbs are plentiful and there for our guests to enjoy in abundance.....July for the cherries....July and August for plums and pears and later in August and September the wonderful figs are ripe and eating them straight off the tree when warmed by the sun is simply amazing. Towards the end of the year there are also the walnuts to enjoy.