Villanova is a stunning stone villa that sits on a promontory once the site of a 12th century village. It boasts a picture postcard view of Todi- one of Umbria's premier hilltop towns- which is framed by a pair of giant oaks.  The garden is laced with the remnants of medieval walls and a tower where roses and clematis climb.  Villanova was lovingly restored and furnished by its current owner and the project was overseen by a well-known Italian architect whose work in the area has been featured in "Architectural Digest" and other publications; the house is featured prominently in the book Restoring a Home in Italy. The house also recently got rave reviews as one of the architect's best works in a well-known American design blog called Willow Decor.

      GARDENS: The landscaped pool area is enclosed by hedges, roses, and chestnut beam fencing; the enclosure means it is easy to supervise children. There is plenty of natural shade plus a large canvas umbrella and chaise lounges. There are four marble-topped tables in the gardens, a fruit orchard and a kitchen garden with herbs. Here, as everywhere in Italy, it is all about the pleasures of fine food and wine, which are meant to be savored and enjoyed: either under the kitchen pergola draped with flowering trumpet vines, poolside, or at one of two indoor tables.  The outdoor barbeque is an open stone grill, Italian-style, with a ready supply of logs. The logs can be used outdoors or to stoke one of the three indoor fireplaces or the cast iron stove.

      INTERIOR: The house is decorated with English and French antiques and Oriental rugs: the emphasis is on style and comfort. There are terracotta floors and high wood-beamed ceilings and original art. The spacious kitchen is the house's focal point: its raised fireplace warms the kitchen on a cold evening. Our treasured housekeeper will always put a smile on your face with her gracious hospitality. She is happy to cook delicious country meals for guests upon request.

        LAYOUT: Villanova can comfortably sleep ten people.  The villa has an uncomplicated yet flexible layout so it is perfect for two families and even additional overnight guests. It is also ideal for a romantic retreat.

Bedrooms: There are four bedrooms upstairs: one master bedroom suite, two doubles and a room with two single beds. Downstairs there is a guest suite, which comprises a sumptuous bedroom with an en suite bathroom plus an adjacent sitting room/bedroom with two daybeds and a fold out sofa bed.
Bathrooms:  3 1/2 total; two of these bathrooms are en suite, one upstairs and one downstairs. The two double bedrooms upstairs share an ample bathroom and there is an additional powder room downstairs.

     RETREATS: We have forged personal relationships with specialists who can lead groups on fitness holidays, wine tours and more.
      

   www.dreamvillarentals.com