LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA. Hot air balloon rides in the early morning afford an exceptional view to the landscape of the Crete Senesi.

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Crystal Pierce
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LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA Near Siena, Tuscany Hot air balloon rides in the early morning afford an

Lucky you- Amparo is in the kitchen tonight cooking for you and your family.

Italianate manicured gardens and a stunning castle with the vestiges of its history still intact.

1 LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA Near Siena, Tuscany Hot air balloon rides in the early morning afford an exceptional view to the landscape of the Crete Senesi. Lucky you- Amparo is in the kitchen tonight cooking for you and your family. La Limonaia di Celsa setting is one of exceptional beauty, a combination of rich woodlands, famous Italianate manicured gardens and a stunning castle with the vestiges of its history still intact. The Limonaia, which was built with a south facing facade to house the potted citrus trees during winter was thoughtfully restored with the owners' excellent design sensibility.

LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA OVERVIEW Vacationing at La Limonaia di Celsa is to step into the pages of a history book, immersing yourselves in an estate first settled in the thirteenth century, reconfigured

2 LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA OVERVIEW Vacationing at La Limonaia di Celsa is to step into the pages of a history book, immersing yourselves in an estate first settled in the thirteenth century, reconfigured in the 1600's and again in the 1800's, and still owned and enjoyed by the descendants of those who first imagined Celsa. This 700year-old relationship between a family and their country seat is moving into the 21st century with the offering of a wellrestored and impeccably maintained vacation villa designed with the evidently aristocratic aesthetic of the owners. The setting is one of exceptional beauty, a combination of rich woodlands, famous Italianate manicured gardens and a stunning castle with the vestiges of its history still intact. To walk the paths and wander the woods is to imagine life in another day and time. La Limonaia di Celsa has been thoughtfully restored to maintain the integrity of the structure but it has been freshened and appropriately modernized on the way to its transformation from a barn for storing lemon trees during the winter into a year-round villa for guests. This is an opportunity as a guest to experience history with an aweinspiring backdrop from the comforts of an peaceful and a seriously well-kept house. To arrive at Celsa is itself an experience, a beautiful winding drive through woods, vineyards and past farms on gentle curving roads. The entrance to the property is via a tall iron gate with pillars to each side and a gravel lane leading you through an allee of enormous mature trees. This is your first clue you are being transported to another place and time. The drive gives way to a view of the imposing crenellated towers and ramparts of a medieval castle, now the weekend home of the owners and their extended family, as it has always been since its invention. They are happy to leave the busyness of Rome for any time soaking up the peace and tranquility of this exceptional estate. No doubt you will feel the same. La Limonaia faces south, as one would expect given the nature of its original purpose. The building is below the castle itself, with breathtaking country views; mature woodland, interrupted by the occasional lovely old farmhouse, and a panorama that sweeps along, half sky and half land, encompassing Siena's notable bell tower and cathedral as well as the hulking profile of Monte Amiata. The surrounding lawn is perfectly kept and invites lots of running and playing. You have private use of a splendid pool that is gated and therefore child-friendly. Adjacent is a rose-covered pergola for dining alfresco without taking your eyes off the view. When you choose, you can expand your horizons by playing tennis and exploring the nearly endless configuration of grassy lanes bordered by ancient stone walls, impeccably clipped hedges and tree shaded woodland. This is a recommended property for bikers as the terrain is doable but challenging and quiet. For runners and walkers there is an extensive network of trails easily accessible. No less attention to detail has been lavished on the interior as well. High ceilings, large glass doors & windows allowing plenty of natural light. Each bedroom tinted a very light color to reflect the southern light. Beautiful linens and spacious baths that make staying put, relaxing inside equally tempting as enjoying the grounds. Leaving the estate is a pleasure when you are ready. Siena is a bucolic 30 minute drive on quiet paved roads. You can take the winding country road north through a spectacular chestnut forest to Colle Val d'elsa, Monteriggioni and San Gimignano - all good destinations for an easy outing and reachable in minutes by car. Beyond is Florence, a drive of just over an hour. The hill towns of Chianti are reached on meandering local roads with pretty names such as Lilliano, where the wine is worth stopping for. And you are equidistant to the important wines and regional charm of the Val d'orcia, traveling the ancient Cassia. All in all, this is a location which allows for idyll and enrichment in whichever proportion satisfies you.

3 LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA 700 SQ METERS INDOORS 100 HECTARES OUTDOORS GROUNDS GARDEN LEVEL ENTRANCE LEVEL Extensive private estate reached through gated entrance and drive. Parking for 3+ cars. Access to hectares of land surrounding Castle,including Italianate boxwood garden, formal 'alles' leading to Baroque pools, extensive pathways through woodland, restored consecrated chapel. Brief walk to tennis court (asphalt surface; see What to Know). Lower Garden Terrace with casual outdoor sitting areas for 10+ just off Garden Level. Adjacent lawns and fruit orchard. Pool Garden: Rose-covered dining pergola accommodates 10. Gated infinity pool (14 x 7; meters depth, stairs at entrance) with umbrellas and sunbeds for 12. Vegetable garden and fruit orchard (staff only) provide fresh produce as available. Living room accommodates 12 at two sitting areas, double doors open to back lawn. TV with Sky. Dining room for 12. Spacious, country kitchen with seating, direct access to the garden. Accommodates 10 for breakfast. Adjacent pantry. Guest bath. Giardino: Single bedroom (twin) with east-facing window. Private bath (enclosed shower stall) Laundry (washing machine, drying rack, iron and ironing board). Siena: Double bedroom suite (queen) with dressing area and ensuite bath (tub with wall-mounted shower, partition). Capella: Vestibule to double bedroom (queen) with ensuite bath (shower stall). Studio: with desk, fax and couch (single). Fiori: Double bedroom (twins). Private bath (tub with wall-mounted shower, partition). Additional Guest Bath. Montagnolo: Double bedroom suite (queen) with dressing area and ensuite bath (tub with wallmounted shower, partition).

LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA WHAT'S NEARBY Pievescuola (restaurants), San Leonardo al Lago, Torri, Eremo di Lecceto (cultural sites) 15 minutes Sovicille, Rosia (markets, shopping) 20-25 minutes Siena,

4 LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA WHAT'S NEARBY Pievescuola (restaurants), San Leonardo al Lago, Torri, Eremo di Lecceto (cultural sites) 15 minutes Sovicille, Rosia (markets, shopping) minutes Siena, Monteriggioni, Colle Val d'elsa, Bagnaia (spa, golf, train station) 30 minutes San Gimignano 40 minutes Florence (historic center, airport) 1.25 hours Montepulciano, Pienza 1.5 hours Rome (including airport) 2.5 hours ITINERARY RECOMMENDATIONS The woodlands of the Montagnola that surround Celsa contain several interesting cultural destinations, all within 15 minutes drive, including the Castello di Belcaro, San Leonardo al Lago, Torri and Eremo di Lecceto. We can arrange cultural presentations regarding the history of Celsa and the design of its famous gardens. Siena is the closest city, worthy of more than one visit. Walking tours and cultural programs, both introductory and expert, can be arranged. A wine-tasting tour of Chianti and it's stunning patchwork of vineyards is a must for all wine lovers. San Galgano, site of the legend of the Sword in the Stone, is just 30 minutes by car. Visit the Stibbert Museum for their collection of armor and medieval artifacts. Antique roadsters are well suited to a pleasure drive from Celsa.

LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA WHAT TO KNOW Air conditioning has been installed in the bedrooms. Radiant heat included in rental for off- or shoulder season rentals.

5 LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA WHAT TO KNOW Air conditioning has been installed in the bedrooms. Radiant heat included in rental for off- or shoulder season rentals. House remains quite cool due to elevation and constant breeze but it is recommended to close the shutters on a very hot day to keep the interior cooler. Window screens in each bedroom and bathroom, one in living room. Complimentary WiFi service is included. Please note there may not be consistent coverage throughout the property. Please discuss your particular connectivity needs before booking. Tennis court is asphalt. No lig hts for night play. Tennis coach available by advance reservation, at additional cost. Staff includes estate manager, cook, cleaning staff and gardener, some of whom live on the estate. No staff lives in the Limonaia itself.they are readily available to assist with any on-site needs. The estate manager and cook speak English. Self-directed hiking and biking itineraries with other recommendations available onsite. Swimming coach, personal trainer and on-site massage can be arranged in advance. This is a recommended property for bikers as the terrain is doable but challenging and quiet. For runners and walkers there is an extensive network of trails easily accessible. The spaces described in Layout are provided exclusively to guests of the Limonaia. The grounds are extensive and they may host weddings or other events on the estate during your stay. Owners do use private castle home on occasion but you are unlikely to encounter them. Please discuss any concerns with us before booking. Rentals generally run Saturday-Saturday in June September; there is flexibility so please inquire. Arrival time is 4 pm- 5 pm; departure time is 10 am. TRAVELING WITH HOMEBASE ABROAD Homebase Abroad rates include our professional guidance and comprehensive travel planning - including preparation of your itinerary - for your time at your chosen villa. All arrangements are customized to the specific interests, needs and preferences of you and your guests. We draw from our extensive network of direct contacts as well as our personal travel experiences in Italy. Upon arrival, you will be met by a Homebase Abroad Concierge who is available to you throughout your villa stay, and will be your first point of contact for any questions and additional requests regarding both your villa and itinerary. We are delighted to assist with travel planning for pre- or postvilla stays in Italy for you and your guests. Please contact us directly to discuss the applicable fees.

LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA INCLUDED: HEAT GAS ELECTRICITY WATER AIR CONDITIONING INTERNET WiFi CLEANING Monday-Sat, 4 hours per day (9-13:00) except holidays LINEN CHANGE weekly; extra set of towels are

6 LA LIMONAIA DI CELSA INCLUDED: HEAT GAS ELECTRICITY WATER AIR CONDITIONING INTERNET WiFi CLEANING Monday-Sat, 4 hours per day (9-13:00) except holidays LINEN CHANGE weekly; extra set of towels are included BREAKFAST Breakfast service 6 days per week is included in the four hours of maid service SHOPPING SERVICE no extra charge if shopping is requested during the hours of household help included AVAILABLE: TELEPHONE/FAX based on usage at cost CLEANING Additional staff hours available on request at 15 per hour PERSONAL LAUNDRY 15 per hour; any additional staff hours should be discussed at least 1 day in advance WELCOME DINNER available at 35 per person adults, 20 per child; due on arrival BREAKFAST Sunday is not included; may be available on request at 14 per hour LUNCH Amparo can come in and cook, usually lunch or dinner (not both) 15 per hour (2-3 times per week) DINNER Amparo can come in and cook, usually lunch or dinner (not both) 15 per hour (2-3 times per week) PROVISIONS Food and beverage at cost ADVANCE SHOPPING SERVICE Advance shopping cost is 160 (includes food items; please inquire for specifics) SHOPPING SERVICE If shopping is requested outside of staff's reqular working hours, charge is 25 per hour SPORT COACH Tennis Coach 30 per hour; pay on-site in Euro COOKING CLASSES Price on request MASSAGE Available upon request LOCAL TAX Tourist Tax, appx. 1.50/person per day for the first 6 days of stay; children are exempt SPORT COACH Swimming coach: by advance reservation, payment due in Euro at time of service. PRINTED: 12/1/2017

VILLA FIORENTINA. Broad Front Terrace for soaking up the unblemished view of Chianti countryside morning, noon and night.

VILLA FIORENTINA. Broad Front Terrace for soaking up the unblemished view of Chianti countryside morning, noon and night. VILLA FIORENTINA Near Florence, Tuscany Broad Front Terrace for soaking up the unblemished view of Chianti countryside morning, noon and night. Easy 15 minute drive to Florence allowing daily day trips