La Dogana, our centuries old farmhouse (one time Customs House), sits secluded in its own gently sloping grounds astride the old border between Tuscany and Umbria in the heart of Renaissance Italy. While it is by no means isolated, it is utterly private and has a special aura of peace and tranquility. Rosemary, lavender and honeysuckle scent the air. Steps lead past rose clad pergolas, shade giving trees and flower beds to the swimming pool. There are exceptional views taking in our painting studio and stretching upwards across a patchwork of woods and fields to the hilltop village of Monte Santa Maria Tiberina.
The house is our home for much of the year. It has given us and many friends untold pleasure for fifteen years. We have a deep love affair with La Dogana and the surrounding area, its beauty, its culture, its people and its food. The level of furnishing and equipment reflects our high standards. Everything you are likely to need is there - down to a hairdryer and medicine cupboard.
The restoration maintains many of the original features, including the outside bread oven. There is a mass of space for ten people. No matter what you are seeking - culture, hilltop villages, countryside, sightseeing, sport or just relaxation - La Dogana is an ideal spot.
We have been letting for 15 years and are delighted to welcome so many "returners". The UK school holiday weeks are usually booked many months ahead - but we think the best weeks are in June and September (when prices are seductively lower).
INTERNET
There is Wi-Fi connection.
LOCAL AGENTS
Jim and Caroline, a charming English couple that lives nearby, have looked after La Dogana for nearly twenty years.
They greet guests on arrival, clean the house twice weekly and keep the pool crystal clear. Even the infamous Italian water and electricity supplies have never presented a problem they couldn't solve.
COOKING + BABYSITTING + IRONING
These services can usually be arranged.
AVAILABILITY
La Dogana is available from mid June to mid September + some winter months. Rentals start on a Saturday.
TRAVEL
The nearest airport is Perugia (Ryanair, Stansted) - 45 mins. Airports at Bologna, Florence + Forli less than 2 hours. Rome + Pisa under 3 hours. The drive from Calais, all motorway, is an easy journey with one overnight stop.
COMMENTS
From recent visitors:
“... far exceeded expectations ... more beautiful than the wonderful photographs ... emotional at leaving ... fun and laughter ... fantastic house in wonderful position”
"Well...we've had a fabulous time and our anniversary and big birthday celebrations went brilliantly; indeed, how could they not in the wonderful location and in your all-singing, all-dancing house with its amazing attention to detail."
“So perfect, so relaxing ... we hardly set foot off the premises notwithstanding the stunning attractions in the neighbourhood"
"A tribute to your vision and energy ... accommodation, facilities , comfort ... all excellent
but of greater value was the 'sense of rightness' and feeling of welcome .."
but of greater value was the 'sense of rightness' and feeling of welcome .."