Villa Dardano
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Whether seeking a holiday with family and friends in Italy or a romantic Tuscany wedding venue, this magnificent 17th century residence allows you to step back ...
Read moreOverview
Whether seeking a holiday with family and friends in Italy or a romantic Tuscany wedding venue, this magnificent 17th century residence allows you to step back in time in the most beautiful surroundings with views towards the hilltop village of Cortona.
Follow the footsteps of royalty and dignitaries who have attended gala dinners at this historic villa which dates back to the early 1600s. Having recently undergone a sensitive restoration, up to 18 guests can stay at Villa Dardano across its nine bedrooms upstairs, many featuring original frescoes, four-poster beds and marble bathrooms, two with luxurious jacuzzi baths. A wealth of original features can be found from treasured tapestries and chandeliers to antique furnishings and terracotta floors alongside modern touches including air-conditioning.
The Tuscan ambience of warmth and elegance continues downstairs across the vast living space with vaulted ceilings, archways, chic sofas, antique billiards and a long dining table for the most delicious Tuscan feasts, ideal if you wish to hire a chef for a special meal. You may prefer to dine al-fresco by the stone-columned gazebo, set within the 6000m2 enclosed estate. With flowering oleander, inviting lawns, terracotta pots of lemon trees as well as century-old trees, the gardens are truly enchanting, not to mention the impressive swimming pool.
Embrace the beauty of nearby Cortona, reached within a 10-minute drive, as you admire its medieval lanes, Renaissance buildings and Etruscan remains as well as the captivating scenery which inspired Frances Mayes’ ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’. Umbria’s Lake Trasimeno is also a short distance away, perfect for a day out walking, cycling, picnicking on lakeside shores or enjoying boat trips – don’t miss the picturesque lakeside towns of Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno.
Elsewhere, sample the prestigious wines of Montepulciano, try pecorino in Pienza, enjoy delicious Umbrian fare in Perugia or discover charming osterie in Arezzo. For a truly spectacular day out, you could even venture to Siena, Florence or even Rome in this enchanting region of central Italy.
What you should know…
- Villa Dardano sleeps up to 18 guests across eight doubles (one of which can be made up as a twin) and a twin bedroom on a mezzanine level via a spira staircase - please see the Features tab.
- Three extra beds can also be provided at a weekly supplement – please enquire.
- The pool is not fenced, so children should be supervised when outdoors.
- Please note that published rates are only valid for the current year. Any bookings for subsequent years will be on request only and correct rates will be confirmed at the time of booking.
- Please note that your booking will only be confirmed once we have checked availability with the owner or their property manager.
- Please note home security devices may be installed at the villa, please enquire for further information.
Property Features
Villa Interiors (1052m)
Ground Floor
- Entrance hall
- Large reception area with sofas, antique billiard table and dining table
- TV lounge
- Kitchen, fully-equipped including dishwasher, oven, kettle, toaster, microwave, blender and coffee maker
- Guest WC
- Staff WC
First Floor
- Living room
- Bedroom 1 with double bed and en suite bathroom with bath and hydro-massage shower
- Bedroom 2 with double bed and en suite bathroom with hydro-massage bath and shower
- Bedroom 3 with twin beds and en suite bathroom with shower. This bedroom is on a mezzanine level reached via a spiral staircase from a lounge area
- Bedroom 4 with double bed and en suite bathroom with bath. This bedroom is reached via the lounge area below bedroom 3
- Bedroom 5 with double bed and en suite bathroom with shower
- Bedroom 6 with double bed connecting to bedroom 7 with double bed and shared bathroom with shower
Top Floor
- Living room
- Bedroom 8 with double bed and adjacent bathroom with hydro-massage bath and shower
- Bedroom 9 with double bed and en suite bathroom with shower and access to laundry room
Outside Grounds (6000m2, enclosed)
- Swimming pool (15m x 5m, depth: 1m - 2m). Open approximately May to mid-October
- Sun loungers and parasols
- Gazebo with marble al-fresco dining table
- Barbecue
- Private chapel (part of the villa, accessed from outside)
- Garden
- Paved driveway and main gate
- Parking
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- Fireplace
- Air-conditioning (throughout excluding bathrooms)
- TV
- Board games
- Billiard table
- Mosquito nets
- Hairdryer
- Ironing facilities
- Washing machine and dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of Villa DardanoVilla Dardano enjoys a countryside location in southern Tuscany, just a short drive from the idyllic hilltop village of Cortona, famed for its fascinating Etruscan heritage and the setting for Frances Mayes’ ‘Under the Tuscan Sun. Here you can enjoy the beauty of Tuscany whilst also being very close to Lake Trasimeno and the Umbrian border.
Surrounded by glorious landscapes of olive groves and vineyards, spend time discovering the historic charm of Cortona (4.8km) with its winding lanes, historic sites and incredible vistas from its hilltop position. Admire medieval and Renaissance buildings as you stroll along its cobbled streets, visit the town’s exquisite churches and climb up to Fortezza del Girifalco for more amazing scenery. Learn all about Cortona’s Etruscan past at the Museo dell'Accademia Etrusca.
Other gems of southern Tuscany include Montepulciano (30km), known for its Renaissance palaces and prestigious Vino Nobile wines, and the medieval hilltop town of Pienza (44km), now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The grand city of Arezzo (33km) is also within easy reach and certainly worthy of a visit for its beautiful architecture and stunning main square, Piazza Grande.
Even closer to home, crossing the border into Umbria, the shores of Lake Trasimeno can be reached within 10km. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, walkers, cyclists and beach-lovers with its pretty lakeside beaches perfect for picnics, seasonal watersports and summer swimming. The medieval lakeside towns of Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno are a joy to explore and there are boat trips across the lake and to the little islands.
If you can find the time, Perugia (45km) is a wonderful University city in Umbria and a must for history, art and chocolate lovers whilst further artistic treasures can be found in Siena (70km), around an hour away by car. You could even visit the magnificent city of Florence for a superb day out, reached in a 90-minute drive or take the train (80-90 minutes) from the nearby station just a 5-minute drive away.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Perugia Airport
(54km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Florence Airport
(134km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Camucia Cortona
(4km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Small local village
(1km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Local area
(Within 2km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Near Camucia
(2.5km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Cortona
(4.8km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Lake Trasimeno
(10km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf Club Valdichiana
(22km) |
||
Region
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the Chianti and Arezzo region is a captivating destination that effortlessly combines the rustic charm of the Italian countryside with rich historical heritage. This enchanting area is renowned for its rolling vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and quaint villages, making it a haven for travellers seeking an authentic taste of Italy.
Tuscany
With its rolling fields, historical heritage and a cuisine that’s a delight for all the senses, it’s no wonder Tuscany is one of the most popular regions in Italy for holidaymakers. Yet even with its popularity, you can still kick back in one of our luxury villas in Tuscany and feel peace, tranquillity and the joy of seclusion.
This is one destination that really does have a little bit of everything for everyone, whether you’re travelling with family, friends or are just looking for a romantic getaway with that special someone.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesThe charm of nearby Cortona awaits with its fascinating Etruscan heritage – the archaeological museum is a great place to learn all about the town’s amazing history. Stop off for a gelato before walking up the many steps to Fortezza del Girifalco or youngsters may prefer to simply head to the public gardens behind Chiesa di San Domenico to let off steam in the little playground.
The shores of Lake Trasimeno can be reached within 10km, a fantastic area for nature walks and cycle rides. Look out for summer watersports, enjoy picnics on a lakeside beach and potter around historic Castiglione del Lago or Passignano sul Trasimeno. Look out for seasonal boat trips across the lake and to its islands.
A little further afield, spend the day in a waterpark across southern Tuscany or Umbria (Acquapark Crocodile and Laguna Park are both within a 40-minute drive) or spend the day at Città della Domenica (42km), a children’s theme park just outside Perugia.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- <1hr to Airport
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Board games
- Pool/Snooker
- Fenced Grounds
Services Available
- Breakfast Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Maid Service Included
Oliver's Extras
- Cooking Classes Available
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Breakfast Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Maid Service Included
- Personal Concierge Service Available
- Vespa Tours/Guided Tours Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From pr...
Read moreExtras
Oliver's Extras
- Cooking Classes Available
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Breakfast Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Maid Service Included
- Personal Concierge Service Available
- Vespa Tours/Guided Tours Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Extras included at this property:
- Daily cleaning (two maids for two hours a day)
- Park and pool maintenance
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Extra cleaning and linen changes
- Private chef (breakfast, lunch and/or dinner)
- Personal concierge service
- Cooking classes
- Wine tours
- Guided tours
- Vespa tours
- Horse-riding
- Translation and interpreting services
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
With enchanting views towards the Tuscan hilltop village of Cortona, this 17th century Italian resid...
Read moreEvent information
With enchanting views towards the Tuscan hilltop village of Cortona, this 17th century Italian residence offers romance and history in the most glorious surroundings.
Admire the frescoed ceilings, four-poster beds and marble bathrooms (a couple with jacuzzi baths) of this beautiful wedding venue in Tuscany which dates back to the early 1600s. Celebrate with loved ones beneath the vaulted ceilings of the villa’s ground floor which exudes typical Tuscan warmth and elegance. For a more intimate ceremony, a private chapel awaits and you could even enjoy your wedding breakfast in one of the frescoed rooms where royalty and dignitaries once dined.
Perhaps you would prefer a larger event set up across the glorious garden. Enjoy post-ceremony drinks by the swimming pool followed by an atmospheric feast under century-old trees and twinkling fairy lights during your dream-like wedding in Tuscany.
Indoor Capacity - 140
Outdoor Capacity - 300
Wedding Ceremony and Reception
Villa Dardano can host up to 130 guests inside the villa or up to 250+ guests outside.
There are various spaces inside from the 400m2 ground floor beneath the vaulted arches to the frescoed rooms upstairs for smaller feasts. Outside, make the most of the enchanting gardens and the area around the swimming pool for post-ceremony drinks, buffets or an open-bar.
For a very small ceremony, the private chapel on site can seat up to 10 people.
When planning the event, you will need to organise an English speaking celebrant if required.
Additional Fees for Events
Please enquire about fees as they vary depending on the type of event, the time of year, the number of guests and whether assistance is needed in planning the event.
Wedding Planning
You may bring your own wedding planner or use one provided by the venue.
Catering
The venue uses external catering companies. If you wish to bring your own caterer, this will need to be approved by the venue in advance.
Wedding Packages
Day before and after events permitted at an extra cost, please enquire for details.
Where To Stay
Up to 18 guests can stay at the villa and there are plenty of other accommodation options in the area. If the venue takes on the role of wedding planning then they can arrange transportation.
Venue Accessibility
There is limited accessibility via public transportation, guests may need rideshares or taxis. There is complimentary parking on-site. There is limited wheelchair accessibility, please enquire for details.
Venue Back-Up
If celebrating outside, marquee hire is advised in case of heavy rain.
Wedding Suppliers
For services such as hairdressing, flowers, table décor, cakes, photography, music etc. external suppliers will need to be arranged – the venue can provide details (they have no exclusivity with their suppliers).
Flexibility on Duration
Events can take place at any time of year – please note there is a Saturday changeover and a minimum stay of 7 nights.
Children
Children are welcome (no event childcare services are available).
Noise Restrictions
Dancing should take place outside the villa only and by law there should be no noise after midnight.
Other Information
There are no restrictions on decoration and themes - bring your creative ideas!
There is limited security measures in place (as always, guests are responsible for their belongings).
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a higher security deposit, which will be in addition to any published rental rates and fees.
All events are on request only and subject to prior agreement from the owner, who reserves the right to refuse all events without their prior authorisation.
| Security deposit | €2000 charged to client’s credit card by the owner or paid in cash upon arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. Check-in outside this time may be subject to an extra cost. Please enquire for more details. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €2000 charged to client’s credit card by the owner or paid in cash upon arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. Check-in outside this time may be subject to an extra cost. Please enquire for more details. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes and daily cleaning (two maids for two hours) also included. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. If accepted, a pet supplement of €50.00 per pet per week will apply (payable locally). |
| Tax | Italian Visitors Tax payable locally in cash (typically costs €1-€10 per person per night- please enquire if exact amount is required. Children under 12 are exempt). |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately May to mid-October. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Internet access? | Wi-Fi internet access included. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A cot can be requested subject to a supplement of €60 per cot per week. Up to three extra beds can also be provided subject to a further supplement - please enquire. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note that published rates are only valid for the current year. Any bookings for subsequent years will be on request only and correct rates will be confirmed at the time of booking. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note that your booking will only be confirmed once we have checked availability with the owner or their property manager. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note home security devices may be installed at the villa, please enquire for further information. |
| Other Ts and Cs | The pool is not fenced, so children should be supervised when outdoors. |
| Property Licence Number | CIN: IT051017B5WIKXTPTK. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 18 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Nov 29th 2024 - Dec 23rd 2024 | £8,664 |
| Dec 23rd 2024 - Jan 2nd 2025 | £12,734 |
| Jan 2nd 2025 - Apr 26th 2025 | £9,155 |
| Apr 26th 2025 - May 31st 2025 | £10,158 |
| May 31st 2025 - Jun 28th 2025 | £11,800 |
| Jun 28th 2025 - Aug 30th 2025 | £12,734 |
| Aug 30th 2025 - Oct 4th 2025 | £11,800 |
| Oct 4th 2025 - Dec 20th 2025 | £9,155 |
| Dec 20th 2025 - Jan 2nd 2026 | £12,734 |
| Jan 2nd 2026 - Apr 25th 2026 | £9,155 |
| Apr 25th 2026 - May 30th 2026 | £10,158 |
| May 30th 2026 - Jun 2nd 2026 | £11,800 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
Reviews
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Magical stay
Our stay at Villa Dardano in Cortona was nothing short of magical. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with open arms by the most wonderful hosts, Alessandra and Federico. Their hospitality and attention to detail made our week-long stay an unforgettable experience for our entire family.
Alessandra went above and beyond in helping us plan our wedding, ensuring that every detail was perfect. Her dedication and passion for her work shone through in every aspect of the event. She also organized other delightful activities, such as a pasta-making class, which added a unique and authentic touch to our Italian adventure. Alessandra's meticulous planning and warm personality truly made our wedding an absolute dream come true.
Federico was equally fantastic, always available to assist with any request and ensuring that we felt at home. Together, Alessandra and Federico created an atmosphere of warmth and joy that made our stay at Villa Ivana truly special.
The villa itself is stunning, with breathtaking views and luxurious amenities. Every corner of the property exudes charm and elegance, making it the perfect setting for a memorable celebration.
Thank you, Alessandra and Federico, for making our stay at Villa an experience we will cherish forever. Your kindness, professionalism, and dedication made our time in Cortona an absolute highlight of our lives. We cannot recommend this Villa highly enough and look forward to returning one day to relive the wonderful memories. -
The most amazing experience
We had the most amazing experience! Everything from the friendly owners to the businesses down the street. Cortona will have a special place in my heart with the Villa at the core. Go explore for some of the best pizza just a walk up by the church. We will hopefully be back. Thank you from our crew.
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Fairy Tale Family Experience
A magical two weeks at Villa Dardano. My wife and I celebrated our 70th birthdays by taking our children and grandchildren to Tuscany for two weeks. My grandson thought we were living in a palace and asked if there was a moat! Alessandra and Federico are without exception, the warmest most attentive hosts we've ever experienced among the dozens of rental properties we've engaged over the years. We asked many questions and made a few requests during our stay and they responded every time immediately, fulfilling each one. The housekeeping is immaculate. Each bedroom is unique and amazing as are the bathrooms. Complete privacy on this large estate yet close enough that some of our adult children walked into Cortona one day. The outdoor canopied patio is spectacular and we enjoyed most of our meals there. The pool is huge and perfectly maintained. This was a bucket list trip for my family and this Villa met and exceeded our high expectations.
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Perfect
We had a wonderful time, it couldn't have been better. We had a big group and there was plenty of room, both bedrooms and common areas.
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What a Awesome Experience
The Villa was Amazing and the Owners were even more Amazing. They brought Fresh Fruit and Vegetables to the Villa Most Days and we had the Honor to meet them and their little Boy! Who is simply Adorable! Villa Dardano is a must stay when in the Tuscany area!
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Tuscany at its finest
We had an absolutely wonderful two weeks in Tuscany, which included our accommodations at Villa Dardano. The Villa is an extremely beautiful and historic place that is well taken care of. It is spacious both inside and out, so much so that you never felt you were on top of each other. From the Villa, we could venture to a number of towns and sites in fairly short time (we spent a lot of time in Cortona, which is only a 10 minute ride.) We had quick access to local stores and restaurants, so finding provisions was never an issue. The owners are wonderful, friendly people and are available almost immediately if you need anything. When time permits, we will certainly consider returning!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
