Tower Penthouse in small castle near Florence
Castle in Bagno A Ripoli, Italy
- 10 guests
- 4 bedrooms
- 6 beds
- 2 baths
Hosted by Majla
- Superhost
- 16 years hosting
Listing highlights
Top 10% of homes
This home is highly ranked based on ratings, reviews, and reliability.
Self check-in
Check yourself in with the lockbox.
Beautiful area
Guests love this home’s scenic location.
900 year old Tower-Penthouse apartment in Chianti Villa, spacious & super-scenic historical home that combines magical atmosphere with space, light, history, convenience. (AC throughout).
Painting-like 360° views of Tuscan Hills all the way to Florence; sun-filled, private grounds.
Perfect location for an unforgettable family stay. Ample private property (including forest). Walking distance from village shops. Convenient location, Florence in sight.
The space
This apartment is the "hat" of a 12th century watchtower villa, on the hills south east of Florence, Italy.
THIS APARTMENT IS PRIVATE, for exclusive use of OUR GUESTS and combines 2 apartments:
A) the PENTHOUSE
Cathedral ceilings for this large space divided into two by an arch:
on one side a super-equipped kitchen and dining area. Above it, a loft with a single size bed and an additional mattress .
On the other side of the arch, a lounge sofa facing the window with view of the church bell-tower, makes for our very favorite nap location.
In the niche that was once the fireplace, we have created a super cozy sleeping area with a queen size bed, surrounded by books.
There is a TV screen you can connect to your Netflix or Prime accounts (and who knows what else you can do! We are just tech-challenged..)
Both spaces have AC.
3 steps up off the kitchen, a full bathroom.
+
B) TOWER
- Additional kitchenette with dishwasher and eating area.
- Bedroom with 2 single beds.
- Large bathroom with bathtub and separate shower.
- Quiet, cool (with AC too!) sitting room ideal to retreat to, with 1 single "Harry Potter" bed.
-Above one flight of stairs, the super-romantic "pigeon loft" bedroom with queen size (A/C too)
- Above it all, the tower terrace, of course, with its 360 degree view!
Heat and WIFI, as well as toys and books in English too.
THIS SPACE IS PRIVATE, for exclusive use of OUR GUESTS.
These 2 apartments (A + B) are connected.
THE REST OF THE BUILDING is made by other apartments, all lived in by permanent residents.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO READ THE HOUSE RULES THOROUGHLY BEFORE BOOKING.
We really care about them being respected, and they will help you enjoy the space to the fullest. Thanks!
ABOUT THE PROPERTY
The tower portion dates back to 1146. The rest of the building was added on in the 1400s , 1600s and 1800s.
Many lives were saved during WWII by my grandfather who risked his own, by offering hiding and shelter to total strangers in this villa. We want to continue this tradition by welcoming people from all over the world. Our children are the 6th generation in this home.
The estate includes one shaded garden (BBQ, hammock, pingpong table) and a sunny garden (flowers and herbs to pick) , and a small olive grove shared with the other families in the building. Without ever leaving the property, you can walk to a little forest, and from there to a magnificent winery estate.
Walk to the village in 3 minutes, and you'll find: local deli, freshly baked bread, cheeses, wine, great cappuccino, top butcher of the valley, fresh lasagne ready to take home; a bar and authentic Tuscan restaurant.
20 minutes drive to Florence, or 45 minutes by bus. Use of car not necessary if you are planning to just visit Florence during the day and simply relax and enjoy the countryside, but recommended for evening outings and explorations of Tuscany.
Guest access
Both gardens, BBQ facility, and a Steinway Baby Grand piano! The apartment is of exclusive use of our guests, but the common areas are always open, and our guests are welcome to use and enjoy everywhere.
Unlimited WIFI, free parking, village with food supplies out the driveway.
This villa is ideal if you play the piano and wish to practice during your vacation: there is a well tuned Baby Grand Steinway in the common area, accessible at all times. (9:00am-9:pm)
ADDITIONAL OFFERS AT THE VILLA:
Take a fun hands-on COOKING CLASS (right next door, same building) where you learn how to make pasta from scratch, then stay for the meal: that includes your creations and a whole meal, including home-made dessert and unlimited wine. The bonus: beautiful views, unlimited toppings of wine, and coffee. And you don’t have to do the dishes!.
If you wish you can join a wine tour before the class.
Detailed tour of the cantina, 4 Wines and transportation included.
Other things to note
BEFORE YOU BOOK THIS PLACE, PLEASE CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:
- SPACE vs. PRIVACY: this apartment is super charming, very spacious, and is of exclusive use of our guests; BUT IT ONLY HAS 2 ACTUAL BEDROOMS; the rest is lofts and niches: cosiness is abundant, privacy is limited ..Bedroom one is located inside livingroom 1; bedroom 3 is located above kitchen 1 (on a loft).
- STAIRS: There are 45 STEPS to your entrance, and 42 more to the tower terrace.
- THINGS TO DO: Bus runs throughout the day from 6 am to 8 pm ish, but only few rides on Sundays and holidays.
The bus is plenty if you plan to stay home and relax, take hikes or day trips to Florence. Restaurant and food shops in the village.
However, if you plan to explore the area, a car is highly recommended.
- The building is divided into apartments.
Ours are the only ones available on Airbnb: PENTHOUSE and TOWER, and they can be rented separately OR together.
The rest is all occupied by permanent residents.
- CHECK-IN: We live in the building and are happy to help whenever we can!
However there are no doorbells in the villa, so it is important that you follow check-in instructions and contact us if you need any help.
- GUEST PARKING: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU LEAVE CLEAR PASSAGE FOR OTHER CARS
- GARDEN: our century-old garden/playground is NOT TESTED WITH PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS.
PLEASE TAKE MAXIMUM CARE WHEN USING THE SWING, ROPES ETC.
WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR USE OF THEM.
- UTILITIES: are NOT fully included in the nightly price.
We want you to be comfortable in our home, so we have A/C and central heat. However, use can vary largely, based on season, weather, personal preference.
We include a basic daily charge of 10€/day; and ask that guests pay for any excess of it.
Charging based on usage allows us to keep the nightly cost as low as possible, and lets our guests be in control of how much they consume.
The meters are at your disposal to check count at arrival and departure, and to monitor your usage.
You will be charged via Airbnb Resolution Center, after check out.
- Let us know if you have any question!
Registration Details
IT048001C2RD84RXDR
Painting-like 360° views of Tuscan Hills all the way to Florence; sun-filled, private grounds.
Perfect location for an unforgettable family stay. Ample private property (including forest). Walking distance from village shops. Convenient location, Florence in sight.
The space
This apartment is the "hat" of a 12th century watchtower villa, on the hills south east of Florence, Italy.
THIS APARTMENT IS PRIVATE, for exclusive use of OUR GUESTS and combines 2 apartments:
A) the PENTHOUSE
Cathedral ceilings for this large space divided into two by an arch:
on one side a super-equipped kitchen and dining area. Above it, a loft with a single size bed and an additional mattress .
On the other side of the arch, a lounge sofa facing the window with view of the church bell-tower, makes for our very favorite nap location.
In the niche that was once the fireplace, we have created a super cozy sleeping area with a queen size bed, surrounded by books.
There is a TV screen you can connect to your Netflix or Prime accounts (and who knows what else you can do! We are just tech-challenged..)
Both spaces have AC.
3 steps up off the kitchen, a full bathroom.
+
B) TOWER
- Additional kitchenette with dishwasher and eating area.
- Bedroom with 2 single beds.
- Large bathroom with bathtub and separate shower.
- Quiet, cool (with AC too!) sitting room ideal to retreat to, with 1 single "Harry Potter" bed.
-Above one flight of stairs, the super-romantic "pigeon loft" bedroom with queen size (A/C too)
- Above it all, the tower terrace, of course, with its 360 degree view!
Heat and WIFI, as well as toys and books in English too.
THIS SPACE IS PRIVATE, for exclusive use of OUR GUESTS.
These 2 apartments (A + B) are connected.
THE REST OF THE BUILDING is made by other apartments, all lived in by permanent residents.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO READ THE HOUSE RULES THOROUGHLY BEFORE BOOKING.
We really care about them being respected, and they will help you enjoy the space to the fullest. Thanks!
ABOUT THE PROPERTY
The tower portion dates back to 1146. The rest of the building was added on in the 1400s , 1600s and 1800s.
Many lives were saved during WWII by my grandfather who risked his own, by offering hiding and shelter to total strangers in this villa. We want to continue this tradition by welcoming people from all over the world. Our children are the 6th generation in this home.
The estate includes one shaded garden (BBQ, hammock, pingpong table) and a sunny garden (flowers and herbs to pick) , and a small olive grove shared with the other families in the building. Without ever leaving the property, you can walk to a little forest, and from there to a magnificent winery estate.
Walk to the village in 3 minutes, and you'll find: local deli, freshly baked bread, cheeses, wine, great cappuccino, top butcher of the valley, fresh lasagne ready to take home; a bar and authentic Tuscan restaurant.
20 minutes drive to Florence, or 45 minutes by bus. Use of car not necessary if you are planning to just visit Florence during the day and simply relax and enjoy the countryside, but recommended for evening outings and explorations of Tuscany.
Guest access
Both gardens, BBQ facility, and a Steinway Baby Grand piano! The apartment is of exclusive use of our guests, but the common areas are always open, and our guests are welcome to use and enjoy everywhere.
Unlimited WIFI, free parking, village with food supplies out the driveway.
This villa is ideal if you play the piano and wish to practice during your vacation: there is a well tuned Baby Grand Steinway in the common area, accessible at all times. (9:00am-9:pm)
ADDITIONAL OFFERS AT THE VILLA:
Take a fun hands-on COOKING CLASS (right next door, same building) where you learn how to make pasta from scratch, then stay for the meal: that includes your creations and a whole meal, including home-made dessert and unlimited wine. The bonus: beautiful views, unlimited toppings of wine, and coffee. And you don’t have to do the dishes!.
If you wish you can join a wine tour before the class.
Detailed tour of the cantina, 4 Wines and transportation included.
Other things to note
BEFORE YOU BOOK THIS PLACE, PLEASE CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:
- SPACE vs. PRIVACY: this apartment is super charming, very spacious, and is of exclusive use of our guests; BUT IT ONLY HAS 2 ACTUAL BEDROOMS; the rest is lofts and niches: cosiness is abundant, privacy is limited ..Bedroom one is located inside livingroom 1; bedroom 3 is located above kitchen 1 (on a loft).
- STAIRS: There are 45 STEPS to your entrance, and 42 more to the tower terrace.
- THINGS TO DO: Bus runs throughout the day from 6 am to 8 pm ish, but only few rides on Sundays and holidays.
The bus is plenty if you plan to stay home and relax, take hikes or day trips to Florence. Restaurant and food shops in the village.
However, if you plan to explore the area, a car is highly recommended.
- The building is divided into apartments.
Ours are the only ones available on Airbnb: PENTHOUSE and TOWER, and they can be rented separately OR together.
The rest is all occupied by permanent residents.
- CHECK-IN: We live in the building and are happy to help whenever we can!
However there are no doorbells in the villa, so it is important that you follow check-in instructions and contact us if you need any help.
- GUEST PARKING: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU LEAVE CLEAR PASSAGE FOR OTHER CARS
- GARDEN: our century-old garden/playground is NOT TESTED WITH PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS.
PLEASE TAKE MAXIMUM CARE WHEN USING THE SWING, ROPES ETC.
WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR USE OF THEM.
- UTILITIES: are NOT fully included in the nightly price.
We want you to be comfortable in our home, so we have A/C and central heat. However, use can vary largely, based on season, weather, personal preference.
We include a basic daily charge of 10€/day; and ask that guests pay for any excess of it.
Charging based on usage allows us to keep the nightly cost as low as possible, and lets our guests be in control of how much they consume.
The meters are at your disposal to check count at arrival and departure, and to monitor your usage.
You will be charged via Airbnb Resolution Center, after check out.
- Let us know if you have any question!
Registration Details
IT048001C2RD84RXDR
Where you’ll sleep
1 of 3 pages
What this place offers
Valley view
Kitchen
Wifi
Dedicated workspace
Free parking on premises
Unavailable: Carbon monoxide alarm
Unavailable: Smoke alarm
Select check-in date
Add your travel dates for exact pricing
Rated 4.96 out of 5 from 140 reviews.
Guest favorite
This home is in the top 10% of eligible listings based on ratings, reviews, and reliability
Overall rating
- 5 stars, 96% of reviews
- 4 stars, 4% of reviews
- 3 stars, 0% of reviews
- 2 stars, 0% of reviews
- 1 stars, 0% of reviews
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for cleanliness
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for accuracy
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for check-in
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for communication
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars for location
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars for value
Guests mention
Where you’ll be
Bagno a Ripoli
This listing's location is verified and the exact location will be provided after booking.
From the host
THE VILLAGE:
The tower penthouse is the top of the villa which sits on top of the hills on top of the village...Great views and breeze, but only 5 minutes walk from the little shops: A community center/bar will serve caffe and aperitivi, with a great panoramic terrace
Local deli, freshly baked bread, cheeses, wine and beer, great cappuccino and top butcher of the valley all right across the street, 5 minutes walk.
While there is no proper restaurant walking distance, you can buy all the food you need to make your own meals, and the local butcher also offers lasagne and grilled chicken and beverages, to eat there or take home.
Excellent country chic restaurant less than 5 minute drive.
Very nice family style trattoria only 5 minutes driving from home, serving great pizza, pasta, steak and more Italian food.
Plenty of hikes start from here.
The tower penthouse is the top of the villa which sits on top of the hills on top of the village...Great views and breeze, but only 5 minutes walk from the little shops: A community center/bar will serve caffe and aperitivi, with a great panoramic terrace
Local deli, freshly baked bread, cheeses, wine and beer, great cappuccino and top butcher of the valley all right across the street, 5 minutes walk.
While there is no proper restaurant walking distance, you can buy all the food you need to make your own meals, and the local butcher also offers lasagne and grilled chicken and beverages, to eat there or take home.
Excellent country chic restaurant less than 5 minute drive.
Very nice family style trattoria only 5 minutes driving from home, serving great pizza, pasta, steak and more Italian food.
Plenty of hikes start from here.
Meet your host
Born in the 60s
My work: owner of Accidental Tourist in Florence
My children are the 6th generation in this medieval villa, and when our budget doesn't allow us to travel, we like a little bit of the world to come to us. My grandfather - a personal hero of mine - hid and saved many lives (often complete strangers, and foreigners), from the fury of the Fascists and Nazis during WW2, in the many nooks and crannies of this old home; and this has created in his heirs a tradition of opening this home to strangers:
we have been hosting since 2011.
My husband Marco is a retired professional yachtsman, and now a talented and passionate cook; and together we have been offering wine tours and pasta making classes since 1998 with the Accidental Tourist.
One of my favorite quotes is: "if you don't believe in connections, you miss them".
Majla is a Superhost
Host details
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Responds within an hour
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