For Sale: Handsome farmhouse with romantic garden close to Orbetello
Bedrooms: 5+ . Surface area: 650 sq. metres . Bathrooms: 4+ . 5 hectares . Price: Euros 1,800,000
Only life’s true romantics could have happened upon this large, handsome, fortified Farmhouse located just beyond the scenic lagoon of Orbetello and a mere hour and a half from the capital. The 17th century estate is entirely unique in position – a retreat nestled in the heart of an ancient Maremmana olive grove (of some 900 trees) and an enchanting, abundant garden. The grounds modelled on the splendid garden of Ninfa, reflect the expert eye and flare of French, architect owners. A place seemingly a source of endless creative inspiration, within the 5 hectares of olive groves and immaculate lawns and borders of lavender and sage, within which one can find a magnificent swimming pool (23 x 7 metres), replicating that of John Paul Getty’s famous 1960s pool at his prior waterfront home La Posta Vecchia (now a hotel outside Rome and sister to Il Pellicano hotel in Porto Ercole) .
Indeed, the untouched natural beauty enveloping the house is entirely captivating, no more so than the soul of the place. The estate appears unassumingly Tuscan at first glance. But inside, the exposed open space reveals great bone structure – something skilfully enhanced by its custodians as well as impeccably furnished interiors with an eclectic mix of art and objects giving the farmhouse character, a bohemian elegance and accessible Provencal warmth. Indeed, this is a home that can be enjoyed throughout the seasons with a splendid living room and open fireplace that looks out onto the natural beauty of the park. This property is intended to be one for sharing moments with family, entertaining friends and reuniting for long awaited catch ups that extend into the long summer evenings. There is a wonderful dining room and very importantly a large kitchen for drawn out breakfasts and family dinners.
On the ground floor, made up of 140 square meters, one can also find the beautiful entrance to the property along with a small guest bathroom. There is an elegant parquet floor throughout the estate, which sets the property apart from more seaside, seasonal counterparts. Upstairs there are 5 delightful double bedrooms and four bathrooms with stylish terracotta floors. Cosy, yet more refined than rustic.
Within the estate there is also a separate, small apartment which is privately owned and does not have access to the garden. This is an interesting component that can also be considered in the purchase of the property and eventually made out to be the Housekeeper or Caretakers quarters. Another proposition that one may consider when looking at acquiring the farmhouse is a separate large olive grove situated close to the property. This would be a wonderful way to extend the wild beauty of the gardens, to even more rows of ancient olive trees, of which there are already an abundance.
One feature that can only truly be appreciated when one visits the property is the total tranquility afforded here. This farmhouse is a total haven and it seems hard to believe, with the long stretches of sandy beach at La Feniglia a short distance away, as well as the “scene” of Porto Ercole or vibrant evenings in Orbetello. Hard to believe, and hard to leave – all in all a coup de foudre.
