Idyllic holiday rental property between Urbino & Gubbio in Le Marche, central Italy
La Pieve chapel apartment was once at the heart of the 13th century rural parish of San Cristoforo.
Together with the main house that was once the presbytery, it stands on a small hillock in outstanding countryside with splendid views in all directions.
La Pieve is a carefully restored 18thC rural chapel with a pair of arches and four-metre high pitched ceiling in the striking main living space. The well-equipped kitchen/dining area takes up the end third of the space. From here a pair of half-glazed French doors opens on to a large, private terrace overlooking our vines and vegetable garden with uninterrupted views of delightful rolling hills.
The rest of the chapel is equipped as a living area with two sofas, writing desk and bookshelves as well as a wood-burning stove for colder weather. The former sacristy at the back of the chapel has been made into a double bedroom with an en suite bathroom.
La Pieve has wireless or wired, unlimited, free broadband (ADSL) access.
San Cristoforo is home to Richard Dixon and Peter Greene, former Londoners who have lived and worked here full-time as guide book writers and translators since 1988.
They are always on hand to give you advice to help you make the most of your stay but are equally happy to remain invisible if that's what you prefer. They have been playing host to guests since 1995 and over 70% of their bookings are return visits.
The small medieval town of Cagli, 5 kms away, lies in the mountains of the northern Marche about 40 kms inland from the coastal town of Fano. This courtly little town, set against a backdrop of some of the highest peaks in the northern Marches, still retains its Roman grid plan, all roads leading to a proper central square with a florid fountain, a steely medieval town hall, and huddles of old men deep in gossip.
Take time to wander along the medieval streets looking out for some of the many aristocratic palazzi that abound or laze away a morning at a table outside one of the pleasant bars on the main square.
The beauty of Cagli as a town, however, is overshadowed by the natural splendour of its setting amidst some of the Marche's most uncontaminated countryside. Right on the doorstep of San Cristoforo stand the twin peaks of Monte Catria (1700m) and Monte Acuto (1527m), an untouched wilderness with breathtaking views.
Peter and Richard look forward to seeing you here.
Saturday from 3pm
Price is inclusive of linen, cleaning and heating. A 25 per cent deposit is requested at time of booking.