The Residence
The Villa
Nine thousand square feet of restored 11th-century stone — six bedrooms, five baths, and a fully staffed household, held for a single party at a time.
Villa Information
The Villa in Detail
Nestled in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, just 30 kilometers south of Florence in one of the most sought-after areas in all of Tuscany, this historic country villa boasts an intriguing past, having originated as a watchtower in the 11th century. Its exceptional status and panoramic positioning make it one of the most unique villas in the area.
As you enter through the stone-paved courtyard, you are greeted by a vaulted stone hall that sets the tone for the rest of the home. The ground floor features a spacious Tuscan-style kitchen and a beautifully adorned dining room complete with a fireplace. Both spaces boast high ceilings and provide access to a charming south-facing terrace and garden, perfect for al fresco dining or enjoying the serene surroundings. Additionally, the villa includes a billiard room and a cozy family sitting room, each with French doors that lead to the delightful terraced areas.
Ascending to the first floor, you’ll find an elegant central living room with its own fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The master bedroom suite, with a generous balcony overlooking the lush garden, offers a private retreat. This floor also features four more bedrooms and three additional bathrooms, two of which are en suite. The villa’s original materials, including cotto floors and chestnut-beamed ceilings, add to its timeless charm.
Over the years, numerous personalities from the international show business have chosen this enchanting villa as their vacation destination, attesting to its allure and unique character.
A guest guidebook (available in hard copy and digital formats) will be made available upon booking, including a comprehensive guide to the villa and surrounding areas.
Courtyards on a Hill
The History of Poggio alle Corti
Poggio Alle Corti, which translates to “Courtyards on a Hill,” dates to the 11th century. Some of the existing walls and archways date to the 1000s, and many of the villa’s floors and beams are hundreds of years old. The stone structure was originally a farmhouse and watchtower fortress, typical of Middle Ages houses of importance — providing protection from hostile neighbors and supporting local farming activity. The location was chosen for its hilltop position and 360-degree views.
The original structure had a tall tower, and the lower walls of this tower remain intact. It was common at that time for the farm family to live on the upper floors while livestock — cows, sheep and goats — lived on the ground floor. The high ceilings, thick walls, and important arches suggest the home was built by a substantial landowner, most likely the Bishop of Passignano. The doorway from the entry hall into the dining room is original and built in the 1100s.
The villa was expanded in the 1500s, and then in the mid-to-late 1700s the entire valley was acquired by Bishop Scipione de’Ricci, whose coat of arms is the hedgehog (il riccio). It is likely that the vineyards around the villa were first planted about this time. He died in 1810, and Poggio Alle Corti then housed lesser lords subservient to the main house. Much of its original structure and charm remain to this day.
Your Stay, Attended To
Daily Services & Household
Bathrooms
All bathrooms are cleaned once daily.
Linens & Towels
Beds will be made daily. Towels are refreshed midweek. For any other bedding needs — cots, cribs, etc. — please ask Rafael or Marinela.
Breakfast & Lunches
No breakfasts or lunches are provided, though Poggio hens do lay eggs daily and guests are welcome to them. The staff are happy to purchase grocery items for you in advance and stock your fridge, and our guidebook lists cafes and pastry shops (pasticcerie).
Dinners
Three complimentary multi-course Italian dinners for your entire party — a Welcome Dinner on arrival from a pre-set menu, plus two more on a night of your choosing (Monday–Thursday). Up to two additional dinners may be booked at €500 each for groups of 6 or under (€50 per additional person over 10). Dinners may be served any time between 5pm and 8pm, per your preference.
Water, Wine & Olive Oil
Guests are provided with a few bottles of wine from our vineyard, olive oil from our olive grove, and bottles of water. Additional bottles can be purchased from the staff or on your own; the tap water is also very good.
Dishes
Staff will clear and clean all dinner dishes on the nights that they cook. Guests are asked to use the dishwasher for all other meals.
Note: The staff have Sunday off and will not be available.
The Table
Al Fresco Dining
The terrace offers a charming al fresco dining experience for all meals, allowing guests to enjoy breakfast with the morning breeze and delicious lunches in the warm sun.
As evening approaches, it becomes the perfect setting for dinner, highlighted by stunning sunset views that bathe the landscape in warm colors.
Diners can admire the medieval town of San Donato and its iconic church bell tower.
This enchanting atmosphere, enriched by the sights and sounds of the local surroundings, makes every meal a memorable occasion, blending culinary delight with breathtaking scenery.
The Household
Onsite Staff and Gourmet Chef
Our dedicated onsite staff, Rafael and Marinela, will assist with daily clean-up, general maintenance, and ensuring that everything remains tidy and welcoming. Marinela is a culinary gem who prepares gourmet dinners that delight the palate with exquisite flavors and herbs from our garden.
Choose primi, secondi, and contorni from an impressive menu of classic Italian dishes. You will also enjoy the benefits of a concierge, Monica, should you wish to book local activities or restaurants.
Our service includes making the beds and cleaning the bathrooms daily, general assistance, dinner dishes, and maintaining a fresh and comfortable environment throughout your stay. This combination of services guarantees a stress-free experience where you can truly relax and enjoy your stay.
Reservations
Reserve the entire estate
Poggio alle Corti is available to a single party at a time. Enquire for availability, rates, and to begin planning your stay with our concierge.
POGGIO ALLE CORTI
Poggio alle Corti is located near Florence in Tuscany, Italy. An exclusive private villa, it comes complete with a tennis court, swimming pool, lawn bowling court, and staff.
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