Elegant Historic Tuscan Villa with Private Pool, Garden, Outdoor Hot Tub and 11 Bedrooms in the Heart of Medieval Palazzuolo sul Senio
In the heart of the Upper Mugello region, surrounded by the beautiful mountains of the Tuscan-Romagnol Apennines, Villa Barbara is a magnificent historic stone residence located in the charming medieval village of Palazzuolo sul Senio, in the province of Florence. Surrounded by unspoiled landscapes, forests and rolling green hills, the property offers an atmosphere of authentic tranquillity, where traditional Tuscan charm meets contemporary comfort.
Situated approximately 437 metres above sea level, in the picturesque valley of the Senio River, the villa enjoys a privileged location directly in the historic centre of the village, with restaurants, shops and local amenities within easy walking distance.
With approximately 800 m² of living space, Villa Barbara accommodates up to 22 guests in its 11 bedrooms, with the possibility of welcoming up to 10 additional guests on sofa beds, upon request and at an additional charge, bringing the maximum capacity to 32 guests.
The property is also available in configurations of 5 or 7 bedrooms, with different rates depending on the selected arrangement. In every case, guests enjoy exclusive use of the villa and its private outdoor spaces. Bedrooms not included in the reservation remain closed and are never rented to other guests.
Completely renovated, Villa Barbara preserves the character of traditional Tuscan residences, combining spacious interiors, original architectural features, elegant furnishings and contemporary details to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.
Thanks to its generous indoor and outdoor spaces, private swimming pool, outdoor hot tub and flexible accommodation arrangements, the property is an ideal choice for large families, groups of friends, multigenerational holidays, special celebrations and private events.
OUTDOOR AREAS
One of Villa Barbara's most appealing features is its private, enclosed garden, arranged over several levels and surrounded by the peaceful landscape of the Upper Mugello region.
This secluded and welcoming setting provides the perfect place to spend relaxing days outdoors, soak up the sunshine, enjoy a good book or share memorable moments with family and friends.
The garden features a beautiful private swimming pool measuring 10 × 5 metres, with a depth of approximately 1.50 metres, surrounded by a sunbathing area equipped with sun loungers, chairs, tables and parasols.
The swimming pool is generally open from 15 April to 30 September, offering an inviting place to cool off during warm summer days while enjoying the tranquillity of the property.
An outdoor shower is also available.
A few steps from the garden lead to a private terrace featuring a heated outdoor hot tub for four people. Generally available from 15 April to 30 September, the hot tub provides a delightful setting for moments of relaxation in an intimate and peaceful atmosphere.
Another private terrace, directly accessible from the first-floor living areas, features a covered patio and a spacious outdoor dining area with a large table and seating for 20 guests.
This charming space is particularly suitable for leisurely lunches and dinners, enjoying traditional Tuscan cuisine or spending long summer evenings surrounded by the enchanting atmosphere of the village.
INDOOR AREAS
The interiors of Villa Barbara are characterised by spacious, light-filled rooms, where traditional Tuscan style blends harmoniously with modern comforts.
The main villa extends over several levels and includes generous living areas, a dining room, a professional kitchen and five bedrooms with private bathrooms.
The annex provides six additional bedrooms, offering greater independence and privacy for guests travelling together.
MAIN VILLA
Ground Floor
The ground floor is primarily dedicated to dining, entertaining and meal preparation.
• Spacious dining room with a large table and seating for 20 guests.
• Professional kitchen, reflecting the property's former use as a restaurant, spacious and equipped for preparing meals for large groups.
• Laundry area with washing machine, tumble dryer, iron and ironing board.
• Two guest bathrooms, each equipped with a toilet and washbasin.
The professional kitchen is a particularly valuable feature for stays with a private chef, organised dinners and special celebrations.
First Floor – 20 Steps from the Ground Floor
The first floor is mainly dedicated to relaxation and socialising.
Here, guests will find an elegant and spacious living room furnished with classic pieces and charming details reminiscent of traditional Tuscan residences.
The room includes:
• Three large sofas.
• An impressive fireplace.
• A round table with chairs.
• Large traditional cupboards and elegant furnishings.
• A billiard table.
• A beautiful games table featuring Sorrentine inlay craftsmanship.
• A small additional kitchen.
From the living room, guests have direct access to the garden, swimming pool area and private terrace with a covered patio and outdoor dining area for 20 people.
Second Floor – 20 Steps from the First Floor
The second floor accommodates five double bedrooms, each featuring a private bathroom, television and air conditioning.
• Bedroom 1: King-size bed, TV, air conditioning and private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
• Bedroom 2: King-size bed, TV, air conditioning and private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
• Bedroom 3: King-size bed, TV, air conditioning and private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
• Bedroom 4: King-size bed, double sofa bed, bathtub inside the bedroom, TV, air conditioning and private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
• Bedroom 5: King-size bed, double sofa bed, TV, air conditioning and private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
These spacious and comfortable bedrooms provide a welcoming retreat after a day exploring the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
ANNEX
The annex at Villa Barbara comprises six additional bedrooms, all with private bathrooms, making it particularly suitable for large groups and families wishing to spend their holiday together while maintaining a degree of independence.
The first two bedrooms are located within apartments featuring private living rooms.
Apartment 1 – Bedroom 6
• Private living room with fireplace, TV and air conditioning.
• Double bedroom with double bed, TV and air conditioning.
• Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
Apartment 2 – Bedroom 7
• Private living room with fireplace, TV and air conditioning.
• Double bedroom with double bed, TV and air conditioning.
• Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
Bedroom 8 – Nocciolo
• King-size bed.
• TV and air conditioning.
• Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
Bedroom 9 – Glicine
• King-size bed.
• TV and air conditioning.
• Separate sitting room with kitchen and double sofa bed.
• Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
Bedroom 10 – Quercia
• King-size bed.
• TV and air conditioning.
• Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
Bedroom 11 – Castagno
• King-size bed.
• TV and air conditioning.
• Private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
The different accommodation arrangements make Villa Barbara particularly suitable for groups consisting of several families, allowing everyone to enjoy shared living spaces while retaining their own private areas.
RENTAL CONFIGURATIONS AND GUEST CAPACITY
Villa Barbara can be booked in three different configurations, allowing guests to choose the most suitable option for the size of their group.
• 5-bedroom configuration: ideal for families and smaller groups.
• 7-bedroom configuration: perfect for medium-sized groups seeking additional space.
• Full 11-bedroom configuration: accommodates 22 guests in double beds, with the possibility of welcoming up to 10 additional guests on sofa beds, bringing the maximum capacity to 32 people.
Additional sleeping arrangements are available exclusively upon request, subject to confirmation and an additional charge.
Rental rates vary according to the selected configuration.
Regardless of the number of bedrooms booked, Villa Barbara always remains exclusively reserved for the group. Bedrooms not included in the reservation will remain closed and will never be occupied by other guests.
SERVICES INCLUDED IN THE RENTAL PRICE
Villa Barbara offers a wide range of services designed to ensure a pleasant and comfortable stay.
• Exclusive use of the property in the booked bedroom configuration.
• Private swimming pool measuring 10 × 5 metres, with a depth of 1.50 metres, open from 15 April to 30 September.
• Heated outdoor hot tub for four people, available from 15 April to 30 September.
• Private enclosed garden and furnished terraces.
• Sun loungers and parasols.
• Wi-Fi Internet access.
• Air conditioning and heat pump heating.
• Daily housekeeping for 6 hours per day, seven days a week.
• Bed linen and towels, changed every 7 days.
• Use of the laundry facilities.
• Guest assistance available 24 hours a day.
• Free public parking near the property.
• Final cleaning.
EXTRA COSTS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RENTAL PRICE
• Security deposit: €1,500.00.
• Tourist tax: €2.50 per person per night for the first 7 nights. Children under 10 years of age are exempt.
• Arrivals after 8:00 PM: additional charge of €150.00, subject to prior authorisation.
• Additional guests beyond the standard capacity of the booked configuration: €105.00 per person per night, subject to availability and prior confirmation.
OPTIONAL SERVICES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
To make your stay even more memorable, a selection of personalised services can be arranged at an additional cost, to be agreed in advance.
• Breakfast served at the villa.
• Private chef services for lunches and dinners.
• Traditional dining experiences featuring local menus.
• Cooking classes.
• Wine tastings and local food experiences.
• Personalised excursions and activities.
External chefs and catering services are not permitted unless specifically authorised by the property management through a written agreement before the booking is definitively confirmed.
Standard breakfast and dinner menus are available and can be provided upon request.
WEDDINGS, PRIVATE EVENTS AND CELEBRATIONS
With its spacious interiors, private garden and beautiful terraces, Villa Barbara also provides a charming setting for special occasions and private events in the picturesque Upper Mugello countryside.
The property can host events for up to 100 participants, subject to prior arrangement and approval.
Events that can be organised include:
• Weddings and private receptions.
• Birthday parties and anniversaries.
• Family celebrations.
• Corporate events and private gatherings.
• Group dinners and gastronomic experiences.
When an event is organised directly by the property's management team, no additional venue hire fee is charged.
Catering, event services, decorations, arrangements and other organisational requirements are quoted separately according to the guests' preferences and needs.
All events must be agreed upon and approved in advance. The maximum capacity of 100 participants applies to events only and does not represent the number of guests permitted to stay overnight at the property.
LOCATION AND DISTANCES
Villa Barbara is situated in the historic centre of Palazzuolo sul Senio, offering a particularly convenient location for exploring the village on foot and discovering the main attractions of the Upper Mugello and Tuscan-Romagnol Apennines.
Approximate distances to the main points of interest:
• Historic centre of Palazzuolo sul Senio: directly in the village.
• Restaurants and shops: approximately 100 metres.
• Palazzo dei Capitani and local museums: within walking distance.
• Marradi: approximately 11 km.
• Vena del Gesso Romagnola Regional Park: approximately 25 km.
• Florence: approximately 66 km.
• Florence Amerigo Vespucci Airport: approximately 75 km.
Distances are approximate and may vary depending on the chosen route. A car is recommended for exploring other towns, cities and attractions in the region.
PALAZZUOLO SUL SENIO: ITALY'S IDEAL VILLAGE
Palazzuolo sul Senio is one of the most charming medieval villages in the Upper Mugello region, located in the province of Florence, close to the border between Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna.
Nestled in the Senio River valley at an altitude of 437 metres above sea level, this picturesque village is surrounded by the mountains of the Tuscan-Romagnol Apennines, lush forests and landscapes that preserve the authentic beauty of rural Italy.
Known as "Italy's Ideal Village", Palazzuolo sul Senio is a wonderful destination for travellers wishing to escape the fast pace of city life and rediscover the pleasures of a holiday surrounded by nature.
Its cobbled streets, historic buildings, intimate squares and medieval porticoes create a timeless atmosphere.
Its location between Tuscany and Romagna also provides an opportunity to discover two fascinating regions rich in traditions, culture and gastronomy.
CULTURE, HISTORY AND LOCAL TRADITIONS
The medieval origins of Palazzuolo sul Senio remain clearly visible in the architecture of its historic centre.
For many years, the territory was associated with the powerful Ubaldini family before coming under Florentine influence during the 14th century.
Among the village's most characteristic landmarks is Piazza Garibaldi, distinguished by its historic porticoes and buildings that reflect centuries of local life.
Another important landmark is Palazzo dei Capitani, a 14th-century building that bears witness to the village's historical significance.
Today, the palace houses two fascinating museums.
• Archaeological Museum of the Upper Mugello: dedicated to the ancient history of the area and archaeological discoveries from the Lamone, Senio and Santerno valleys.
• Museum of Mountain People: an interesting journey through rural life and the traditions of the Apennines, displaying agricultural tools, everyday objects and historical testimonies of the local communities.
Palazzuolo sul Senio also preserves memories associated with important figures in Italian history and literature, including Giuseppe Garibaldi and the poet Dino Campana.
NATURE, HIKING AND OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Villa Barbara's location makes it an excellent base for nature lovers and guests who enjoy outdoor activities.
The forests and mountains surrounding Palazzuolo sul Senio offer numerous opportunities to explore the countryside throughout the year.
• Hiking along scenic trails and mountain paths through the Apennines.
• Walking excursions through forests, valleys and traditional villages.
• Mountain biking and cycling routes.
• Nature walks to discover local flora and fauna.
• Visits to historic villages throughout the Upper Mugello and Romagna regions.
• Relaxing days surrounded by the peace and tranquillity of the countryside.
Nature enthusiasts can also explore the Vena del Gesso Romagnola Regional Park, known for its remarkable geological landscapes, hiking trails and areas of outstanding natural interest.
GASTRONOMY AND LOCAL EXPERIENCES
A stay at Villa Barbara is also an opportunity to discover the traditional cuisine of the Upper Mugello region, where Tuscan and Romagnol influences come together to create authentic dishes rich in flavour.
Local specialities include handmade fresh pasta, potato-filled tortelli, tagliatelle, dishes featuring mushrooms and truffles, locally sourced meats and seasonal produce.
Restaurants and traditional trattorias in the surrounding area serve recipes passed down through generations, prepared using ingredients from the region.
Guests can enhance their holiday with food and wine experiences, tastings and cooking classes, discovering local traditions through authentic flavours and memorable shared moments.
The possibility of arranging private dinners and chef services directly at the villa makes these experiences even more exclusive.
DISCOVERING TUSCANY AND ROMAGNA
Thanks to its location between two regions, Villa Barbara allows guests to combine peaceful days at the property with cultural excursions and outdoor adventures.
Florence, with its extraordinary artistic heritage, world-famous museums, Renaissance squares and iconic monuments, is one of the most rewarding destinations for a day trip.
The surrounding countryside is also home to numerous historic villages, mountain landscapes and traditional towns where visitors can discover the authentic character of central Italy.
The geographical proximity to Romagna provides an opportunity to experience the region's distinctive culinary and cultural traditions, making every day a chance to discover something new.
PROPERTY ACCESS AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Villa Barbara is located in the historic centre of Palazzuolo sul Senio and can be reached from the main street by climbing approximately 10 steps.
The villa extends over several levels connected by internal staircases.
• Approximately 10 steps from the main street to the property entrance.
• Approximately 20 steps between the ground floor and the first floor.
• Approximately 20 steps between the first and second floors.
• Additional steps connect certain garden areas and the terrace with the outdoor hot tub.
The presence of stairs and changes in level should be taken into consideration by guests with reduced mobility or specific accessibility requirements.
The property does not have private on-site parking, but free public parking is available nearby.
Although the villa is situated in the centre of an inhabited village, it offers private and secluded outdoor areas for guests to enjoy.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TIMES
• Check-in: from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
• Check-out: by 10:00 AM.
• Arrivals outside the scheduled check-in hours must be agreed upon in advance with the property management.
• Arrivals after 8:00 PM are subject to an additional charge of €150.00 and require prior authorisation.
The selected bedroom configuration, any additional sofa beds and all optional services must be agreed upon before the booking is confirmed.
AMORE RENTALS CONCIERGE SERVICE
At Amore Rentals, we offer a dedicated team of experienced concierge professionals, fully committed to enhancing your holiday experience in Italy.
Our team is available to assist you with every aspect of your journey, from arranging private transfers and visits to the region's most famous attractions to organising wine tastings, cooking classes, gastronomic experiences and personalised excursions.
Our goal is to make every stay an authentic and unforgettable experience, allowing you to discover the very best of Tuscany and Romagna while enjoying the comfort, privacy and exclusivity of your own private villa.