La Pietra is a spectacular estate located on the border of Tuscany and Umbria, about a 20- minute drive from Cortona. An ancient stone farmhouse dating back to the 1600s, La Pietra is nestled among acres of well-tended gardens and tall trees. From the property, there are wonderful views of the nearby hills surrounding Cortona.

Guests at La Pietra will enjoy luxurious surroundings, a secluded and private setting, and unbounded natural beauty. It is filled with antiques, comfortable furniture, lovely artwork and interesting artifacts of its owner, an Italian actress. The choice of fabrics and rugs are very tasteful. The farmhouse has been adapted to bring the outdoors inside, so the many windows facing the gardens bring light and natural vistas. The original cotto floors, wood beam ceilings, hand-chiseled stone staircase and other structural aspects of the farmhouse, give it a special ambience.

Each of the bedrooms is similar to a master bedroom suite, with an anteroom or study attached, as well as a bathroom. They each have their own entrances to the garden. Two of the bedrooms have fireplaces, and one of them is on the first floor.

The walk to the swimming pool (36x18 feet) goes through a large expanse of lawn and under fruit and olive trees. The garden around the pool is filled with flowering plants, and there is a pergola above the pool for shade that has fabulous views. Several other areas outside are ideal for dining “al fresco,” and guests can take advantage of the estate’s vegetable and herb gardens.

Maid service is included in the price 2 hours per day, and an excellent cook is available on request for an extra charge. The caretaker lives nearby off the property. La Pietra has a washing machine, dishwasher, TV (Italian), CD player, barbeque, and independent heating.

Access to the house involves a one mile uphill drive on an unpaved and curving (without drop-offs) road.

The Tuscan towns of Arezzo and Montepulciano are nearby, and Florence and Siena can be reached on a day trip. Perugia, Deruta and other Umbrian towns are also nearby.