Cascina Gretaia: Your Own Historic Villa Surrounded by Nature Near Florence

Cascina Gretaio is nestled in the heart of nature, just a half-hour by train or car from Florence. It’s a wonderful place to stay with a group of friends or family. Gretaio is an old 17th-century Florentine farmhouse. Here, you’re in the heart of the Tuscan countryside yet close to the famous cities. The house is situated in a natural nook of the ‘Catena delle Balze,’ a unique mountain range in the Val d’Arno, just south of Florence.

Dario and Francesca Gatti bought the villa in 2004, and they, along with their daughter Viola and their dog Sole, are happy to assist you during your stay. They fell in love with this unique spot surrounded by nature, with its fantastic view of the Balze. A “peaceful” spot in a little paradise that the Gatti family would love for you to discover.

The villa

Cascina Gretaio has since been renovated by the Gatti family but still retains its historic charm, with its centuries-old walls, traditional Tuscan furnishings, and cozy atmosphere.

The house has 5 spacious bedrooms (each in a different color) and 3 bathrooms, accommodating a total of 10 to a maximum of 13 people. It is furnished with antique furniture in the typical Tuscan style. The cozy kitchen is worth mentioning and features a huge fireplace, ideal for an indoor barbecue.

Parking is free, and the property features Wi-Fi, a TV, and a fully equipped kitchen with a patio overlooking the pool. In the summer, Dario lives in a guesthouse behind the house. He is only there in the evenings to tend the garden and assist guests upon request.

Swimming Pool and Nature

The house is surrounded by a beautiful garden with a swimming pool. Equipped with tables, lounge chairs, and sunbeds, this is an ideal spot for sunbathing and enjoying time with friends or family on warm summer days. For the little ones, there’s a soccer field, a ping-pong table, and a swing.

The house is located in Regello. The surrounding area features a beautiful nature reserve with plenty of woods and the Balze River. There are many hiking trails starting right from the house, inviting you to explore on foot or by bike.

Cities in the area

Tuscany’s most beautiful cities are just a few kilometers away. You’re not far from the highway (you can’t hear it), but back roads are, of course, more fun.

In just over half an hour, you can reach:

Florence
Siena
Pisa
Arezzo

History of the Villa

Long ago, Cascina Gretaio was a shelter for pregnant women. The local priest ran it and helped maintain the house. Later, the house was purchased by a large family with seven sisters, all of whom were single. At that time, it was called the “Maiden’s House.”

Without a car

Cascina Gretaio is also ideal if you want to spend a vacation without a car. You can easily get around by bike to the towns or the nearby supermarket. You can go on beautiful bike rides or guided horseback rides.

For adventurers: paragliding is available with a landing in Reggello.

And for shoppers: Cascina Gretaio is just a few minutes away from the factory outlets of the most famous “Made in Italy” brands, such as Gucci, Prada, Armani, Sergio Rossi, Loro Piana, Hugo Boss, and Valentino.

Local cuisine and restaurants

Tuscany offers many specialties and culinary delights, including extra virgin olive oil, meat, and wine. Upon request, Dario and Francesca will deliver meat and wine to your home from the local butcher, Macelleria Crini Donnini in Reggello, and the winery, Azienda agricola Lazzeretti Montanino in Reggello.