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IL BUON REPOSO |
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IMPRUNETA, CHIANTI, ITALY
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The village of Impruneta, at the gateway to Chianti, is well-known for its terracotta industry. It is dominated by a large central square and the Basilica of Santa Maria dell'Impruneta, which dates back to 1060. The church was largely rebuilt after being bombed during World War II, but the 14th-century cloisters are intact and there is a small museum of religious art on the premises. Although just four kilometres from Impruneta and 15km from Florence, Il Buon Reposo is a country house to its core. This is not a luxury rental, but for those looking for an authentic rustic experience it creaks with character and is an unusual and secluded base from which to explore Florence and Chianti.
Set on a hill in well-tended gardens overlooking 20 acres of olive groves, it has one of the best-positioned swimming pools in Tuscany, with a large loggia for barbecues and secluded, shady seating areas for reading. The house has been in the same family for generations and, after being occupied by the Dutch and then the British during World War II, was imaginatively restored over a period of 20 years by the current owner, who lives in an adjacent cottage. Some guests will find rather too many personal mementoes in evidence - the extensive shell collection in various display cabinets, for example - but others will appreciate the high, antique beds and furniture (the owner is a former antiques dealer), period features, heavy shutters and relaxed ambience. No two rooms are alike - one bedroom is vast, with its own living room and
bathroom, and there is a bohemian 'den' on the top floor (with a large terrace) that would make a good playroom.
SLEEPS
Nine, with one in a single bedroom
PRICE
£2,175-£3,571 per week
CONTACT
Tuscany Now (020 7684 8884; www.tuscanynow.com)
FLY
Ryanair (0871 246 0000; www.ryanair.com) to Pisa (70km away)
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