# La Buia Villa > Read our latest updates and stories from our beautiful valley near Lippiano & Monterchi in Umbria. --- ## Pages - [Christmas at La Buia](https://www.labuiavilla.com/home-page/christmas-at-la-buia/): Celebrate Christmas at La Buia 🎄🎁 Escape to our luxurious villa nestled in the heart of Umbria for an unforgettable... - [Gallery](https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/): Take a tour around La Buia interior, the grounds and lovely gardens on our gallery page. - [Home page](https://www.labuiavilla.com/): A beautifully restored Farmhouse & Villa on the border of Umbria & Tuscany. Stunning valley views and two private swimming pools. - [Blog](https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/): Read our latest updates and stories from our beautiful valley near Lippiano & Monterchi in Umbria. - [Walking](https://www.labuiavilla.com/walking/): There's endless beautiful trails for walking and hiking around La Buia. Situated in the Val Tiberina we are lucky enough to be surrounded by some of the most spectacular views. - [Reviews](https://www.labuiavilla.com/reviews/): Read feedback & reviews from our previous guests who've stayed at La Buia Villa over the past few years. - [Contact](https://www.labuiavilla.com/contact/): Get in touch with us at La Buia via our contact page. We'll reply to you as soon as we can. - [Location](https://www.labuiavilla.com/location/): La Buia villa is located between Monterchi in Tuscany & Monte Santa Maria Tiberina in Umbria, and just a short drive from Lippiano, Sansepolcro & Anghiari. - [Facilities](https://www.labuiavilla.com/facilities/): A restored tobacco tower with luxury self-catering accommodation, private pool & WiFi - located in beautiful rural surroundings near Lippiano in Umbria. - [Amenities & Local Area](https://www.labuiavilla.com/amenities/): Located between Lippiano, Monterchi & Monte Santa Maria Tiberina, there are many local amenities and places to visit whilst enjoying your stay at La Buia. - [Booking & Rates](https://www.labuiavilla.com/booking-and-rates/): Visit our booking and rates page to see our seasonal rates and availability for the villa - [Description](https://www.labuiavilla.com/description/): 'La Buia' Old Tobacco Tower restored into a Luxury Holiday Villa. Sleeps 6-8 with private pool, stunning views + WiFi, tucked away in Umbria's back pocket. --- ## Posts - [Monterchi in Tuscany - A Local Guide](https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/guide-to-monterchi-in-tuscany-italy/): Home to the fresco Madonna del Parto by Piero della Francesca, Monterchi is a beautiful medieval Tuscan town & also home to one of our favorite restaurants. - [Anghiari - Visit This Beautiful Medieval Hill Town in Tuscany](https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/anghiari-medieval-hill-town-tuscany/): There's plenty to see, do, eat and enjoy in and around Anghiari; a fascinating area only 20 minutes drive from... - [Arezzo Antiques Market - First weekend of each month](https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/arezzo-antiques-market/): Arezzo Antiques Market is famed throughout Italy. It's a treasure trove of delectable items everywhere you look. Every stall and table holds interest with all kinds of collected items. - [Hill Town of Monte Santa Maria Tiberina, Umbria](https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/monte-santa-maria-tiberina-umbria/): The locals just call it 'Monte' and from miles around you can always tell your whereabouts if you look for Monte Santa Maria Tiberina. - [The Medieval Hill Town of Lippiano, Umbria](https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/hill-town-of-lippiano-umbria/): Lippiano is dominated by its castle dating back to X century. An easy walk from La Buia, it is characteristic of a beautiful medieval Umbrian town. - [Cycling in the Valtiberina, Umbria & Tuscany](https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/cycling-valtiberina-umbria-tuscany/): The area is also perfectly suited to road and off road cycling. Cycling is very much part of Italian life and each town has its own cycling club. --- --- ## Portfolio Items - ['Puccini' Bedroom](https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/puccini-bedroom/): The beautifully styled first floor Puccini bedroom has a king size bed and french windows leading out onto the breakfast terrace with views down the valley. - [Grounds & Garden](https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/grounds/): La Buia is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens and grounds with magnificent views all day long. Sit back and relax or take a wander. - [The Tobacco Tower](https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/front-tobacco-tower/): Over 3 floors, the old tobacco tower is exquisitely furnished through out with traditionally themed materials and furnishings - [Living Room & Gallery](https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/living-room-gallery/): The living room and gallery have big comfortable sofas and authentic furnishings. Equipped with TV and easy access to the pool. - [Kitchen & Dining Room](https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/kitchen/): Fully equipped luxury kitchen with all mod cons, utensils and appliances. A long dining table and stunning views, a wonderful place to eat and enjoy! - ['Rossini' Bedroom](https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/rossini-bedroom/): The Rossini bedroom with king size bed is located at the top of the tobacco tower with en suite bathroom and unspoilt valley views from all the windows. - ['Verdi' Bedroom](https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/verdi-bedroom/): The Verdi bedroom is on the first floor with en suite bathroom as well as a dressing area & small sofa. The windows open onto unspoilt views of the valley. --- # # Detailed Content ## Pages - Published: 2024-10-16 - Modified: 2024-10-21 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/home-page/christmas-at-la-buia/ Celebrate Christmas at La Buia Escape to our luxurious villa nestled in the heart of Umbria for an unforgettable holiday season. Surrounded by stunning landscapes and cozy comforts, enjoy a peaceful Christmas retreat with family or friends. The Tobacco Tower: 3 double bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, cozy fireplaces, and beautiful dining spaces. Padronale Farmhouse: 5 double bedrooms, 3 with en-suite bathrooms. Snug and Galleria sitting areas, large dining table adjoining the kitchen. Wood burning stoves. Scenic Views & Glorious walks: ideal for walking off Christmas lunch (or earning it). Plenty to do: local Christmas markets, Presepe Vivante at La Ville + Gubbio, Perugia and Assisi all within reasonable driving distance with all their festive flair. Perfect for Family Gatherings To book your magical Umbrian Christmas holiday, please check availability & rates here. --- > There's endless beautiful trails for walking and hiking around La Buia. Situated in the Val Tiberina we are lucky enough to be surrounded by some of the most spectacular views. - Published: 2012-01-09 - Modified: 2025-01-31 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/walking/ On the Ordnance survey map, this area is named Monte Civitella, after the high ground. It is spectacular. One walks through the abandoned village of Marzano, which is very atmospheric with a 10th century look out tower. A little further on from the abandoned village you can look down the entire length of the valley. The walk loops around and down taking a few hours to complete. Alternatively, you can take your car up to Monte Civitella and then walk a very enjoyable and not too long circular walk ending up back at your car. Monterchi A Local ‘Circular’ Walk First, walk down the drive and turn left at the bottom up hill. Walk up hill for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how fast you walk. On the brow of the hill, turn left, hair pinning back on yourself and carry on along a tarmac road along a ridge, with beautiful view on either side into each valley. To your right the villages of Lippiano, Monterchi ,Citerna and Anghiari jewel the landscape. To your left is the small valley of La Buia, with Monte Santa Maria Tiberina away to your far left. Monte Civitella You will pass the odd house but it isn’t until you reach the end of this road after a farm and some yapping little dogs, that you turn left (in front of you is a track that goes up into the woods, a much longer walk ending up in the chestnut groves) and carry on... --- > Read feedback & reviews from our previous guests who've stayed at La Buia Villa over the past few years. - Published: 2010-08-02 - Modified: 2022-02-08 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/reviews/ Browse a selection of our latest reviews: Gary2024-09-07One of the most beautiful places we have ever stayed. It felt like our own home in no time and we were very sorry to leave. Will definitely be looking to return soon. Karli and Richard were very helpful and attentive making sure our holiday was a good as it could possibly be. Thank you so much! ! Silvia2024-08-27Beautiful house, huge and fabulous garden, large pool with various depths and the area around us is very quiet. Great crostini and wine are offered to have an aperitif on the outdoor sofas with an amazing view, especially at sunsetPaolo2024-07-17Richard's house is a magical place, with a breathtaking view that can be seen from every window, terrace, and garden corner. The photos don't fully describe the spaces, the light, the renovation, the furnishings, and the atmosphere. The park is Richard's masterpiece, dotted with trails, trees, aromatic shrubs, stones and scenic areas, in an apparently spontaneous and random order but actually meticulously studied and developed over the years. The pool, very nice, is nestled among olive trees, cypresses and bushes; it is connected to the house by a bridge, which continues in a very scenic loft. Every single detail of the house and park shows the love with which Richard built this place. One last thought of two visits that made us feel at home: Karli, the very kind House manager, always efficient and smiling. And Missy, the owner's beautiful cat, who discreetly supervises her property... --- > Get in touch with us at La Buia via our contact page. We'll reply to you as soon as we can. - Published: 2010-01-31 - Modified: 2024-04-23 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/contact/ Please send us your enquiry and we will reply as soon as we can. * indicates required field Name:* Email:* Subject:* Message:* How did you hear about us? Search Engine Sawdays VRBO Google Maps Radio HP Word of Mouth Other Other: Richard Shelbourne Mobile: +39 338 886 8397 Email: info@labuiavilla. com --- > La Buia villa is located between Monterchi in Tuscany & Monte Santa Maria Tiberina in Umbria, and just a short drive from Lippiano, Sansepolcro & Anghiari. - Published: 2010-01-26 - Modified: 2022-01-24 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/location/ Between Monterchi in Tuscany and Monte Santa Maria Tiberina in Umbria Nearest Airport: Perugia, 50 kilometres See Airport Driving Times Nearest Trains: Arezzo, 49 kilometres Nearest Motorway: E45 at Città di Castello Car: Required View of Monterchi This virtually unspoiled part of Umbria has far fewer tourists than the well known areas of Tuscany. Situated between two delightful old market towns; Città di Castello (15 mins) and Sansepolcro (20 mins), you have the choice of turning one way or the other at the end of the drive to go shopping. Both have a tantalising ‘corso’ (high street) full of every kind of shop. Banks are in ample supply. Markets are held once a week in the old centres. Plenty of restaurants to choose from There is a fantastic selection of restaurants all around, often with ‘al fresco’ eating and offering a delicious array of local cuisine. If it is art you are after and cultural interests in general, then all the Umbrian Renaissance painters will blow you away; Signorelli, Perugino, Pinturicchio and right on your door step here in Monterchi is Piero della Francesca’s breathtaking fresco of La Madonna del Parto, a rare painting of the Madonna with child. Through out the summer months you can find open air music festivals, concerts and operas; jazz, rock and classical. Top of the list is the ‘Umbria Jazz Festival’ festival in the medieval centre of Perugia. This sizzling venue attracts artists from the United States to come and perform. A film festival... --- > A restored tobacco tower with luxury self-catering accommodation, private pool & WiFi - located in beautiful rural surroundings near Lippiano in Umbria. - Published: 2010-01-26 - Modified: 2010-01-26 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/facilities/ ACCOMMODATION Property Type: Refurbished Tobacco Tower/Villa with Private Pool Accommodation: Self Catering Location Type: Rural & Scenic Nearest shop: 10 mins by car Theme: Holiday 3 double bedrooms with bathrooms en suite. Two rooms with double beds (170cm & 160cm) & one room with two single beds of 90 cm each. 1 WC in utility room Sofa bed for extra children on request. Cot GENERAL Fridge BBQ Dishwasher Oven 5 ring hob Washing machine Microwave Towels provided Seating for 8 - 10 High chair Activity guide Local Restaurant guide Local maps Central heating Firewood Stufa Kitchen towels Towels, pool towels and bed linen Hair Dryer & hot water bottles Puccini Bedroom Rossellini Bedroom Verdi Bedroom --- > Located between Lippiano, Monterchi & Monte Santa Maria Tiberina, there are many local amenities and places to visit whilst enjoying your stay at La Buia. - Published: 2010-01-26 - Modified: 2010-01-26 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/amenities/ Here is a list of things to help you enjoy your stay in the Old Tobacco Tower: WiFi internet access throughout the grounds. iPod dock & CD player, CDs TV & DVD's for children and adults DVD hire available in Città di Castello Towels, Pool Towels & Bed linen Picnic-ware Barbecue Boules Several games for all ages plus a toy basket for younger children Hair dryer & hot-water bottles Cot & High chair. Stunning views Private Swimming Pool Local Amenities Markets: Weekly markets in Città di Castello & Sansepolcro, Monterchi (on a Sunday morning where there is a Porchetta van) Anghiari and the famous Antique market in Arezzo first W/E of each month. Fitness & Sport Horse-riding Cycling (Bicycle hire available locally) Hiking Golf Ten-pin bowling Outdoor roller-blading in summer nearby Spa centre at the golf club along the valley with an indoor swimming pool available to non-members Tennis in Monterchi Near Ravenna is a theme park called MIRABILANDIA which has good rides and a beach and aquapark. Art La Buia is right on the Piero Trail begining at Arezzo to Monterchi, Sansepolcro, Urbino and Perugia. Also for those who like modern art there is the 'Burri Collection' in Città di Castello plus one or two small galleries that sell modern art. Other Festivals ... La Balestra in the main Piazza of Sansepolcro in the summer plus a flag throwing contest. Montone mediaeval procession in August. The Palio in Siena, La Saracena jousting festival in Arezzo in September. Chocolate Festival... --- > Visit our booking and rates page to see our seasonal rates and availability for the villa - Published: 2010-01-26 - Modified: 2025-01-29 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/booking-and-rates/ 2024/25 Rates Tobacco Tower - Sleeps 6-8 From £2100 to £3,450 per week. (High season: 7 night minimum stay, Saturday change over. ) Enquire directly or book via Airbnb. 2025 Christmas & New Year: £2450 per week, logs included View seasonal rates here. Spring offer! 15% off weekly Tobacco Tower bookings from 1st April - 22nd June 2024. La Padronale Farmhouse - Sleeps 10 From £2500 low season - £3850. 00 per week high season. (High season: 7 night minimum stay, Sunday changeover. ) Enquire directly or book via Airbnb. 2025 Christmas & New Year: £2650 per week, logs included Seasonal Rates: Click here to see our seasonal rates page. Both houses are also available to rent at the same time, just send us a message via our contact form. Both houses: 2025 Christmas & New Year: 2025 Christmas & New Year: £4700 per week. Enquiries: Simply send us a message and we'll reply as soon as possible. Enquire Here Tobacco Tower Availability Padronale Farmhouse Availability 2018 Autumn Special Offer: £1400 per week in October & November (minimum stay 4 nights). Arrival days. Tobacco Tower: During High Season (July - mid September) rental weeks usually run Saturday to Saturday. Padronale Farmhouse: During High Season (July - mid September) rental weeks usually run Sunday to Sunday. At other times of the year more flexible changeover dates can be offered. Extra Guests The Tobacco Tower sleeps 6 in three double bedrooms - there are also 2 fold up beds with comfortable mattresses.... --- > 'La Buia' Old Tobacco Tower restored into a Luxury Holiday Villa. Sleeps 6-8 with private pool, stunning views + WiFi, tucked away in Umbria's back pocket. - Published: 2010-01-26 - Modified: 2023-04-26 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/description/ The Tobacco Tower 'Seccatoio' Our wonderful villa called 'The Tobacco Tower', is located in the most beautiful valley in Umbria, a protected beauty spot. Secluded and yet not too far off the beaten track, with all the gems of the region scattered around in tantalising fields of treasure, from captivating market towns to beautiful Medieval hill top towns, the famous undulating cypress clad hills of central Italy to the placid banks of the river Tiber as it winds through the Umbrian countryside towards its Roman arena. La Buia - The Tobacco Tower has been restored finally, 20 years after having bought the property which stands in 3 hectares of sublime gardens and olive groves landscaped by our very own Richard Shelbourne. The stone building with tower and newly added wing is a stunning piece of restoration work. Views out across the unspoilt and intimate valley at first glance, interrupt your thoughts as the sheer beauty of what your eye is taking in has an overwhelming effect. French windows 'porta finestra' lead out of the gallery above the sitting room and over a little bridge to the pool. A pretty landscaped terrace greets you outside of the dining room / kitchen where the table is set for eating al fresco. There is also a breakfast or aperitif terrace that joins the kitchen on another facade with rattan armchairs and sofa. The villa is decorated with flair throughout using Italian furnishings, preserving the character of the old building with its beautiful beamed... --- --- ## Posts > Home to the fresco Madonna del Parto by Piero della Francesca, Monterchi is a beautiful medieval Tuscan town & also home to one of our favorite restaurants. - Published: 2018-09-19 - Modified: 2018-09-19 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/guide-to-monterchi-in-tuscany-italy/ - Categories: Towns in Umbria - Tags: Monterchi, Madonna del Parto, Piero della Francesca, Restaurant Monterchi is a particularly special hill town because it has a famous fresco by the quattrocento artist Piero della Francesca, painted between 1455 and 1465. This Renaissance gem is quite a surprise to come across. Piero drew his inspiration from a pagan ritual that pregnant woman would perform. They would bath in the Cerfone river that passed through Monterchi, convinced that their child would be delivered safely if they did. The waters of this river were dedicated to the Umbrian god Cerfo and believed to be miraculous. La Madonna del Parto - Piero della Francesca - Museo della Madonna del Parto Piero's fresco "La Madonna del Parto" (the pregnant Madonna) is an extremely rare portrayal of the virgin with child. The artist's mother 'Romana di Perino da Monterchi' lived on the outskirts of Monterchi as you head towards Lippiano. La Madonna del Parto Today, woman who are expecting, visit the sublime Fresco, housed in the old school house of Monterchi 'Museo della Madonna del Parto'. Piero's masterpiece was painted in the church of Santa Maria Momentana in Monterchi, which collapsed in 1785 so the salvaged fresco was moved to a newly built church on the outskirts of Monterchi by the cemetery. For some reason it was moved again about 25 years ago, this time back to the heart of Monterchi and the above mentioned disused Mussolini schoolhouse, which just happens to be adjacent to two restaurants, so visitors can easily find somewhere to eat. Amenities An old man in the... --- - Published: 2018-07-25 - Modified: 2025-06-01 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/anghiari-medieval-hill-town-tuscany/ - Categories: Towns in Umbria - Tags: anghiari, tuscany There's plenty to see, do, eat and enjoy in and around Anghiari; a fascinating area only 20 minutes drive from La Buia Villa Anghiari: strange to pronounce when you see it first written, awesome to behold! A medieval hill town set in North East Tuscany built with ramparts 100 metres high in places. Anghiari is famous for a bloody battle that took place on the plane below on 29th June 1441 between Florence and Milan. It was much later depicted by Leonardo da Vinci. From May to October festivals and feasts (festa) take place here. The Palio della Vitorria (the Victory Race) on June 29th celebrates the victory of the Florentine troops and their allies over the Milanese troops of Filippo Maria Visconti in 1441. It is one of the oldest Palios in Tuscany and after all the Renaissance pageantry, the race is run on foot from the site of the battle down below to Piazza Balbaccio, half way up the steep hill of Corso Matteotti - see photo! In May all the cantinas that look like old doors under houses along the town streets, are opened up. Local vendors and some from far flung parts of Italy too, display their wonderful Italian delicacies, stunning hand made jewellery and hand woven materials. Sophisticated hand made leather hand bags in beautiful colours and ceramics are also on sale, plus many more unusual things to buy. A visit to Busatti is a must, (even for men, just 5 minutes! ) If you are a fan of textiles and traditional weaving then a visit to Busatti weavers in Palazzo Morgalanti is a must. The family have... --- > Arezzo Antiques Market is famed throughout Italy. It's a treasure trove of delectable items everywhere you look. Every stall and table holds interest with all kinds of collected items. - Published: 2015-05-14 - Modified: 2015-05-14 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/arezzo-antiques-market/ - Categories: Lucie Shelbourne's Posts, Shopping - Tags: Antiques Market, Arrezo Arezzo Antiques Market is famed throughout Italy. It's a treasure trove of delectable items everywhere you look. For the Antiques Market (or Flea Market as it's otherwise known), merchants come from all over to set up their stalls in the Piazza Grande on the first week-end of the month. On warm summer afternoons, they slouch in deck chairs under sun umbrellas behind their merchandise, eating and drinking and chatting to fellow store holders. Arezzo Antique Market. First W/E of each month Every stall and table holds interest with all kinds of collected items. Treasure hunters stand in deep thought as they turn over a relic in their hands trying desperately to fathom if it really is as the stall holder tells them 15th Century! There are all kinds of different stalls, one just filled with cut glass orbs for replacing those on broken chandeliers. From antique handbags to historical prints and beautiful Tuscan furniture to marble busts, there's always something to pique interest. A true feast for the eyes. Mind you, like most markets, you have to haggle over the price or ask them to throw something else in too! Where: Piazza Grande, Arezzo When: First weekend of every month Transport: 35 minute drive, Train or Bus --- > The locals just call it 'Monte' and from miles around you can always tell your whereabouts if you look for Monte Santa Maria Tiberina. - Published: 2015-05-04 - Modified: 2022-01-20 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/monte-santa-maria-tiberina-umbria/ - Categories: Lucie Shelbourne's Posts, Towns in Umbria - Tags: Monte Santa Maria Tiberina Looking out southeasterly from La Buia, Monte Santa Maria glints in the distance like a beacon. Just 12 minutes drive from La Buia. MONTE SANTA MARIA TIBERINA (M. S. M) - 12 minutes drive from La Buia. Looking out southeasterly from La Buia, this small hilltop town glints in the distance like a beacon. An ancient place which the locals just call 'Monte', Monte Santa Maria Tiberina sits loftily at an altitude of 688 meters, providing a breathtaking viewpoint over the surrounding valleys and the Tiber Valley. From miles around you can always tell your whereabouts if you look for Monte Santa Maria Tiberina, sticking up out of the undulating countryside, holding up the mass of azure sky above. Exuding its medieval heritage, Monte Santa Maria transports you back to an antique world just by gazing up at it from afar. In the winter months Monte feels as if it is completely deserted as one wanders the shiny cobbled narrow streets, en route to Oscari's bar/ristorante for a pipping espresso and a brioche, but then a womans voice rings out from an upstair window over the roof tops; "Giovana? Cosa stai faccendo? ? " "When locals want to prove their point that something was very difficult, they say "come la strada per Monte Santa Maria (Like the road to Monte. . )". The 'Marchese' coinage. Inside the closely grouped together stone houses, grandmothers guarding their young grandchildren while their parents are at work, busy themselves making chestnut and rosemary bread or a jam crostata, hopeful of their husbands bringing home a basket of porcini mushrooms and maybe a black truffle or two, both... --- > Lippiano is dominated by its castle dating back to X century. An easy walk from La Buia, it is characteristic of a beautiful medieval Umbrian town. - Published: 2015-04-03 - Modified: 2024-06-10 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/hill-town-of-lippiano-umbria/ - Categories: Towns in Umbria - Tags: Cycling, Lippiano, Umbria Lippiano, like many of the hill towns of Italy, is dominated by its 10th Century castle, its look-out tower visible from afar. Castello di Lippiano Churches, Local Food & Bar Lippiano has two churches, one parish church and the other a private chapel belonging to the castle. There is a bar run by a very affable family of women at the far end of the village. They bake a very special Umbrian flat bed called 'Ciaccia sul Panaro' baked on a stone (available in the summer months on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays evenings) which you stuff with local sausages and onion or cold cuts and cheese, tomato and mozzarella or rocket and creamy stracchino cheese. Lippiano Piazza Delicious honey is sold from Fabio who lives beneath the castle in the via Regina Elena. Lippiano Castle Lippiano, like so many of the hill towns of Italy, is dominated by its castle dating back to X century. It is vast and totally intact with a look-out tower visible from afar. Some years ago, I was shown round the many rooms spread over four or five floors and remember coming away baffled as I tried to work out how on earth an enormous tractor tyre, taller than the tallest man, got to be stored away in one of the many bedrooms whose door and windows were nowhere large enough for it to go through. Lippiano castle On the first floor, the chilling sight of the small cell with it’s massive door of almost a foot thick comes into view. I hustled my eight year old son out into the corridor, in a spellbound state as... --- > The area is also perfectly suited to road and off road cycling. Cycling is very much part of Italian life and each town has its own cycling club. - Published: 2015-04-02 - Modified: 2015-04-02 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/blog/cycling-valtiberina-umbria-tuscany/ - Categories: Sports & Activities - Tags: Cycling The area is also perfectly suited to road and off road cycling. 'Like the French, cycling is very much part of Italian life and each town has its own cycling club. Cycling in the Valtiberina (Tiber Valley) - Umbria 'Ciclismo' The area is also perfectly suited to road and off road cycling. 'Like the French, cycling is very much part of Italian life and each town has its own cycling club. The nearby town of Monterchi has it's own club that often races locally, including the annual Trofeo Gabriele which passes right by La Buia on it's way to Monte Santa Maria Tiberina. There is even a female cycling club called 'Lady Bike' who unsurprisingly wear pink jackets! Cyclists hurl themselves up and down the hills all over the Valtiberina, their harlequin coloured attire seems to add momentum to the feat of the race. Off Road Cycling and Mountain Biking White roads through hills and valleys clothed in juniper bushes and ginestra(broom), wild cystus and dog roses... ... There are trails and tracks everywhere perfect for mountain biking as shown in this video: Suggested Road Ride From La Buia you could ride to Monterchi and then head towards Città di Castello before turning back towards La Buia on the bottom road and a dip in the lovely pool to cool off. Difficulty: Moderate Bike Shop and Bike Hire There is a really good bike shop in Città di Castello that everyone goes to called 'Bikeland' who rent and sell bicycles and equipment. 'Bike Hire' Translate: 'Noleggio Biciclette' Where: Bikeland, Via Ferrer, Città di Castello --- --- --- ## Portfolio Items > The beautifully styled first floor Puccini bedroom has a king size bed and french windows leading out onto the breakfast terrace with views down the valley. - Published: 2015-09-05 - Modified: 2024-04-11 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/puccini-bedroom/ - Categories: Bedrooms The Puccini room is a smart, cool retreat with en suite bathroom. French doors open onto a garden terrace with views and pots of flowers and a private corridor leads you to the hall. Ground Floor 'Puccini' Bedroom The Puccini room is a smart, cool retreat with en suite bathroom. French doors open onto a garden terrace with views and pots of flowers and a private corridor leads you to the hall. The room has a soothing atmosphere of sophistication with comfortable twin beds, armchair and dressing table. An antique hand painted Italian wardrobe adorns one wall with ample hanging space. A lovely bedroom in which to come and relax or get ready to go out on a warm starry night in Italy. Very comfortable twin beds Ample hanging space in wardrobe Tall chest of drawers En suite bathroom with loo, shower, bidet & basin. Stylish decoration French windows leading onto breakfast terrace --- > La Buia is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens and grounds with magnificent views all day long. Sit back and relax or take a wander. - Published: 2015-09-05 - Modified: 2024-12-09 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/grounds/ - Categories: The Grounds Right from the start, having gone under the arch and into the courtyard of the villa, the view reveals itself in its full splendour. Right from the start, having gone under the arch and into the courtyard of the villa, the view reveals itself in its full splendour. Already you are longing to peel off travel clothes, pop a bottle of fizz and waste not a moment longer before getting into the holiday mood. Everywhere you turn there is a profusion of plants, a place to sit and something of interest to catch your eye. A true slice of paradise is not a cliché: a swim in the azure pool, a glass of Prosecco and the prospect of a delicious Italian meal will draw you into that special frame of mind which La Buia inspires. Strolling the grounds, the perfume from herbs and plants surrounds you. The constant movement of wildlife is restful as is the knowledge that you are right inside nature in a protected beauty spot. In the warmth and dappled light, your work life falls away around you. Large traditionally landscaped garden Lovely Views in all directions Wild Life Flora & Fauna in abundance Herbs to cook with Paths to walk on and explore --- > The living room and gallery have big comfortable sofas and authentic furnishings. Equipped with TV and easy access to the pool. - Published: 2015-09-05 - Modified: 2024-04-24 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/living-room-gallery/ - Categories: Living Room & Gallery Beautifully decorated with Italian flair using original materials, a little door from the minstrels gallery above the sitting area leads to the swimming pool. Arriving at the main entrance across an attractive courtyard, you enter the Tobacco Tower through a pair of french windows into a tall spacious living room full of light with two three seater sofas and two comfortable armchairs. An antique cherry wood refectory table, acting as a desk, stands behind one sofa with a Renaissance armchair and lamp. Sitting here at a laptop, one looks up to the Juliet balcony on the first floor and the minstrels gallery which leads you out through more French windows, over a little bridge and along through olives and vines to a resplendent pool with six pool loungers. Grapes hang above as you lie sunbathing, coaxing a feeling of noble living in ancient Rome. The living room has an HD television for watching DVDs on or for watching films from a computer. There is also a selection of DVDs, games and books. The floor is soft under foot with wax treated hand made terracotta tiles through out the villa. On the balcony area there is an Italian small hand made sofa and three rattan armchairs, plus two coffee tables. The door from the minstrels gallery leads out to the private swimming pool. Two fold up beds are stored at one end, under striped ticking overs. A large worked metal contemporary chandelier hangs from the high ceiling of the room. The original open sided cottos that filter light through, high up in the room, are an attractive feature of this desirable and diverse living space.... --- > Fully equipped luxury kitchen with all mod cons, utensils and appliances. A long dining table and stunning views, a wonderful place to eat and enjoy! - Published: 2015-09-05 - Modified: 2024-04-11 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/kitchen/ - Categories: Kitchen Fully equipped kitchen & dining room with unspoilt views of the valley. Being in the kitchen of the Tobacco Tower is almost like being on deck on a sunny yacht. Light streams in from every direction which is reflected off the white walls. A central island is an obvious location to open bottles and sit around, drinking whilst the chef cooks delectable ingredients in front of you. Wander out through huge glass doors to a perfect little terracotta paved terrace with views across the valley. Classy pale grey rattan chairs, sofa and coffee table welcome you along with large pots cascading lovely plants under a big sun umbrella. At one end of this beautiful room sits a long table that seats eight. Two white modern upholstered armchairs take up a cosy corner in this area of the kitchen, with a large contemporary standard lamp behind them, bathing the area in warm light. French doors or a "porta finestra" leads you out to a charming part of the garden with a heather clad gazebo to eat under which has a climbing vine on it. Bees bob around the scented lavender along with visiting butterflies. The kitchen is extremely well equipped for cooks. There is a choice of coffee makers. This room is a gravitational hub of the villa. Ample seating including bar stools Travertine work tops Large oven and 5 ring hob Stunning views from all around the room Extremely well equipped --- > The Rossini bedroom with king size bed is located at the top of the tobacco tower with en suite bathroom and unspoilt valley views from all the windows. - Published: 2015-09-05 - Modified: 2024-04-11 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/rossini-bedroom/ - Categories: Bedrooms The Rossini room is a haven at the top of the villa. Second Floor: 'Rossini' Bedroom The Rossini room is a haven at the top of the villa. The bedroom has its own double door entrance off the landing below which leads to the steps that curl round with iron railings, up to the top bedroom. There is an intimate atmosphere and a studio feel about the room with the advantage of its 'eagle's nest' view point, the vista from here is spectacular. The Rossini room has a queen size bed, an armchair, chest of drawers and wardrobe and a small en suite bathroom. Double bedroom, furnished with double bed Own stairwell and entrance through double doors. En suite bathroom Spectacular panoramic views Intimate atmosphere Very private --- > The Verdi bedroom is on the first floor with en suite bathroom as well as a dressing area & small sofa. The windows open onto unspoilt views of the valley. - Published: 2015-09-05 - Modified: 2024-04-11 - URL: https://www.labuiavilla.com/gallery/verdi-bedroom/ - Categories: Bedrooms The Verdi bedroom has a follow on set of rooms; bathroom, dressing room and bedroom. First Floor 'Verdi' Bedroom The Verdi bedroom has a follow on set of rooms; bathroom, dressing room and bedroom. The dressing room has a sofa and a relaxing feel to it with a luxurious king size bed in the next room with tall windows letting in beautiful Italian sunshine. One window has pot plants hanging outside and beyond the flowers the view draws your eye. A contemporary chandelier hangs high above the bed with the light twinkling in the glass droplets. The room has a full length mirror to examine your tan ! There is a rattan armchair and delicate side tables with lamps. This is the master bedroom in the villa. King size bed Two seater Sofa Large windows Full length mirror Duck feather pillows of quality --- ---