Villa Cassia Vetus

Villa Cassia Vetus is a delightful 17th century country villa hotel with a fascinating history. In 1935 the villa was bequethed by the owner to an order of friars who lived there until 1965. For nearly a decade after this time the house was used only as a summer retreat by the friars. In 1987 the friary was sold and the villa became once again a private residence. The current owners bought the property in 2001 and began the painstaking work of restoring the villa to its former glory. After years of renovation work this quest has now grown into a deep passion and when you drive through the gates of Villa Cassia Vetus today and see the villa standing once again superiorly beautiful and dignified in all her glory this passion is clearly very obvious.
The villa is located on an estate in the Chianti area in the Tuscan Hills, right in the middle of the triangle connecting Florence (35 km) to Arezzo (33 km) and Siena (50 km). Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, sweeping lawns, a panoramic natural stone swimming pool and terraces with magnificent views the villa offers tranquillity to those who seek rest and simple elegance.

Wandering through the gardens you will see that this unique villa has its own small 18th century chapel where unforgettable weddings, reconfirmation of vows and anniversary celebrations are held. Around every corner there is a suprise at Villa Cassia Vetus and from the terraces by the ancient stone fountain one has splendid views of the wonderful Chianti Hills, Arno Valley and through the Val di Chiana.

Accommodation:
The villa has just 8 double en-suite bedrooms
1 single en-suite bedroom
1 junior suite
2 independent apartments each sleeping 2

All the bedrooms rooms have a telephone, mini-bar, fridge, tea/coffee making facilities, safe and a TV. Bedlinen and towels are changed daily in the rooms and suites. All bedrooms have air conditioning with the exception of 3 due to historical obligations.

The 2 apartments have TV and safe and a well-equipped cooking area and bathroom with a shower. Bedlinen and towels are changed weekly in the apartments however a daily change can be made on request. Both apartments have air conditioning.

Breakfast is served in the old cellars with its charming traditional red brick vaulted ceilings, where once the olive oil and the wine were kept - or outside, in a warm and sunny corner of the garden, close to the ancient small church. All the food is fresh, of local and not industrial production. During the day sandwiches, simple fayre and tasting of local products can be prepared on request.
The Italian (English speaking) villa manager Maria is always on hand to help and assist our guests. Maria is an absolute angel and nothing is too much trouble for her as you will experience.
The old granaries of Villa Cassia Vetus have been converted into a permanent Atelier of fine Arts and Restoration. In this very special place, where it is still possible to admire the terracotta containers once used to keep wheat and barley, Florentine artists and restorers hold basic and advanced workshops of wood and ceramics restoration and watercolor painting. These may be booked in advance. Please ask the Discovery Team about watercolour and ceramic and wood restoration 5 day courses available. Courses also include visits to antique fairs, Florentine craftsmen shops and entrance to museums.

Tennis is available just 5 minutes from the villa and horse-riding is also available nearby.