UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN
A COUPLES' ESCAPE
C O R T O N A, I T A L Y
APRIL 22-27, 2024
"Life offers you a thousand chances... all you have to do is take one."
-- Frances Mayes, "Under the Tuscan Sun"
Join us April 22-27, 2024, along with Amanda Tatom and her husband Troy, on this unforgettable couples' escape to Tuscany. We'll stay at Bramasole, the fabulously restored Tuscan villa of the famed book and movie "Under the Tuscan Sun," recently named by Conde' Naste Traveller as one of Italy's top villas.
Only a mile outside the picturesque town of Cortona, and just a hop, skip and jump away from Umbria, we'll explore, taste and immerse ourselves in the best both regions have to offer.
THE RETREAT
For five spectacular days, live out your very own Tuscany fantasy amongst the camaraderie of other fun couples.
Just outside the charming town of Cortona, we'll have the exclusive use of the gorgeous villa, Bramasole, of the famed, "Under the Tuscan Sun," book and movie.
During the week, we'll have a private chef at our disposal preparing farm-to-table meals using only the freshest local ingredients.
Our day trips with our private drivers will include Montepulciano, where we'll taste top wines and have an unforgettable meal (featuring the famous Chianina beef Tuscany is famous for);
We'll tour nearby Cortona with an expert local guide, as well as beautiful Umbrian capital city of Perugia to explore its Etruscan, Roman and Medieval architecture.
Along with seeing the sights, there will also be relationship-bonding experiences like a cooking class at the villa... and one day we'll immerse ourselves in the beautiful picturesque hills out on a group guided e-bike ride through the picturesque hills. Along the way we'll (of course!) have time for sipping, tasting and snacking on some of the region's local delicacies.
Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or are just looking to take a no-hassle trip you'll both enjoy, this is the perfect escape.
The only decision you'll need to make during the week will be 'white, red or rose!'
ACCOMMODATION
When you arrive at Bramasole, it's clear you're crossing the threshold of a magical place. A well-kept garden welcomes you with a fragrant concentration of roses, lavender and rosemary.
Once in ruins, the villa has been lovingly and painstakingly restored over the years with the help of local artisans and craftspeople. The interior features terracotta floors, antique tiles and wooden beams which maintain the integrity of the building's original character. A mix of antique and contemporary furniture lend the interior a plush, authentically Tuscan feel.
Just outside, a brick-paved pergola is beautifully furnished for eating al fresco.
The grounds also have a swimming pool, an outdoor Jacuzzi hot tub. The 17th century well in the garden adds a beautiful presence in the garden.
The property is comprised of three buildings -- the main villa, the guest house and the limonaia - a beautiful apartment which was once a lemon conservatory.
The main villa, with its five bedrooms has a gorgeous living area, a kitchen, a fireplace, a large dining room table, two guest bathrooms, its own private chapel and a full-sized American billiard table in the game room.
The neighboring four-bedroom guest house also has a kitchen, various living and sitting areas as well as a guest bathroom.
The self-contained limonaia has its own living area, double bedroom and private terrace with views overlooking the expansive surrounding valley.