An oasis of pure natural beauty is hard to imagine that it is only 15 minutes from the bustling heart of ancient Orvieto. Villa Mirabella is lavishly private. It’s very quiet and peaceful here in Tuscany.
Villa Mirabella’s splendidly tended grounds appeal to those of any age. A gazebo by the pool and a covered portico at the entrance are equipped for outdoor dining and barbecues. A bocce court invites everyone to play a simple game loved by all yet mastered by few. Past guests tell us their children are fascinated by the ministrations of the caretaker as he tends to the colorful family peacock and gathers fresh eggs from the henhouse, 30 yards away. Behind this fenced area, the owners keep a small apiary to make their own honey. Two cats lazily patrol the estate and provide all the security required in this corner of paradise.
A recent renovation accomplished the owner’s dream as the original stone walls, brick archways, terracotta floors, and a working fireplace come to life against a backdrop of soft pastels and comfortable furnishings. Overall, the feeling is one of harmony, light, and space. A modern kitchen, new baths, and screened windows add functionality to the country decor. When rented for 10 or more guests, a separate wing is opened revealing more bedrooms, bathrooms, and a large country kitchen ideal for family gatherings. A laptop with dial-up internet access is included in the cost. Meals and cleaning services may be arranged when booking.
From the property, a wide gravel lane winds through three wooded miles before merging with the main road to Orvieto. The entire route from house to town takes under 15 minutes by car. Orvieto, built on a high volcanic outcrop is stunning to look at from afar and even more thrilling to explore from within. Orvieto’s Etruscan roots go back thousands of years and run deep through an amazing cave system carved beneath the city.
Orvieto’s main square showcases one of Italy’s best-loved cathedrals. Il Duomo is revered for both its art and impressive architecture. Unlike most hill towns, an elevator leads from the parking area up into the most level town making it a joy for walkers of all ages to explore. Restaurants featuring Orvieto’s signature white wine abound. Intriguing shops of all kinds fill the streets, including one belonging to the owners of the villa, who for three generations have run an organic butcher shop featuring homemade Umbrian sausage. Stop in, say hello, and stock up for some seriously good grilling back at home.
While there is much to see and do in this part of Italy, many of our clients fall in love with Orvieto and hardly ever venture out beyond the walls. Orvieto’s train station has frequent service reaching downtown Rome in one hour. Within easy drives from Villa Mirabella are Lake Bolsena, reached in 30 minutes; Città della Pieve or Todi: 45; Perugia or Pienza: 60; Montepulciano or Cortona: 70; Siena, Spoleto, Assisi or Rome 90.
In addition to the above, a communicating door in the ground floor living room is opened to access the right wing of the farmhouse:
Orvieto is a lovely little city in the heart of Italy. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is known for its medieval buildings, its hilltop location and the fact that it is the birthplace of St. Anthony.
Orvieto is surrounded by rolling hills and has a number of beautiful and ancient churches. The main attraction is the Duomo di Orvieto, the Cathedral of Orvieto, which was built in the 11th century. The Duomo is the tallest cathedral in Italy and the second tallest in Europe. It has a beautiful, golden interior and the view of the exterior is incredible.
Member Since 2023
5.0