>> A spacious, privately owned, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house of character. Sleeps up to 8 (suitable for
>> A spacious, privately owned, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house of character. Sleeps up to 8 (suitable for
>> A spacious, privately owned, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house of character. Sleeps up to 8 (suitable for
>> A spacious, privately owned, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house of character. Sleeps up to 8 (suitable for
>> A spacious, privately owned, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom house of character. Sleeps up to 8 (suitable for
House Description
A lovely traditional house of character situated within the historic heart of the medieval, hilltop town of Penne in the Abruzzo region of Italy. Just a short walk from a good range of small shops, restaurants, cafes a bars. Close to the Gran Sasso National Park, Lake a WWF Nature Reserve.
The house is situated within a residential area (with very friendly neighbours!), and has a narrow cobbled alleyway at the side. It is spacious with thick walls, high ceilings, traditional wooden shutters and tiled floors throughout, helping to keep it cool during the summer months. Full gas central heating and double glazing in all rooms means it is also suitable for a winter break. It is presented to a high standard, and most rooms have recently been redecorated, and it is comfortably furnished.
Ground Floor – Garage
First Floor – Arranged in a semi open plan style (separated by restored brick arches) comprising:
Entrance hall
Bathroom: Bath with hand held shower, hand basin, bidet & WC.
Living Room: Traditional vaulted ceiling. French doors open onto a small balcony. Sofa's, comfortable chairs, coffee table, Radio/CD Player. TV (we are hopeful that there will be satellite channels from July 2008) & DVD Player (please bring your own CD’s/DVD’s). There is a small selection of books that you are welcome to borrow at any time during your stay.
Dining Room: Seating for 8 around the large dining table. Fireplace.
Kitchen: Well equipped with everything you should need including: fridge/freezer, double sink, 4 ring gas hob with extractor hood, full size oven, microwave, toaster, electric kettle, coffee maker, various cooking utensils, sauce pans, glasses, cutlery, crockery etc
Second Floor –
Bathroom: Shower, hand basin, bidet, WC & Washing Machine
2 Large Double Bedrooms: One has exposed oak beams and both are light and airy.
Plus 1 Bedroom with 2 separate bunk beds
A travel cot is available on request. Various other items are provided for those with young children.
The house sleeps 2 - 8 people
Location
Nestled halfway down Italy's Adriatic coast, opposite Rome, Abruzzo has been described as the ‘green heart of Europe’ and is Italy's most protected region. A third of its 11,000 sq km is designated as national park and is home to rare wildlife such as Marsicano bears, Apennine wolves, wild cats, chamois and golden eagles
There are two spectacular mountain ranges, the Maiella and Gran Sasso, dotted with some of the least visited hill towns in Italy. In addition, the coastline boasts 133km of golden beaches, creeks and cliffs. This stunningly beautiful region has long been a favourite holiday destination for Italians, but remains unspoilt by mass tourism …….Abruzzo is still authentic Italy.
The town of Penne is defined as the ‘town of bricks’ due to its having been built almost entirely in cotto terracotta on the tops of four hills. On two of which the medieval centre still rises between the valleys of the Tavo and Fino rivers, amid a landscape of green hills and oak woods. To the west, the mountain ridge of the Apennines are visible just a few kilometres away.
The ancient town centre is well preserved, a maze of narrow, cobbled, steep alleys, surrounded by 15th century walls. The main access to the town is particularly picturesque, through the S. Francesco gate with its decorated frontispiece, and is the work of De Sio. Penne's churches include the 12th century Santa Maria in Colle Romano, and the Duomo, which now houses the Diocese Museum including a crypt dating from the 8th century.
The town has a lively festival at the end of August each year, and there is a market every saturday morning. You will find that the town has a warm and very friendly atmosphere.
Being within this lovely town you will always find something to do.... The house is only a 2 min walk from the piazza where you can enjoy a drink in one of the many cafes and bars..... Penne has lots of small shops to enjoy including Pasticceria, butchers, boutiques, jewellers and gift shops selling local crafts.....There are also several small museums to visit (The Archaeological Museum “G.B. Leopardi” of Penne, The Municipal Diocesan Museum of Penne a The Naturalistic Museum “Nicola De Leone” of Penne).....There is a park with children's play equipment, and a swimming pool just on the edge of the town....
A number of artistic-artisan workshops are active in the town, with the production of Pennesi majolica earthenware’s, serigraphic prints, embroideries, traditional weavings, jewellery, wrought iron and copper work and fine cabinet making.
Penne also represents a point of access to the Gran Sasso National Park through the Lake of Penne Nature Reserve, a WWF oasis where it is possible to participate in guided visits. This oasis includes a centre for environmental education, a nature trail with observation huts for those interested in the avifauna, an animal first-aid centre, an artisan workshop, a botanical garden, a naturalistic museum, two aquariums and a centre where otters are bred.
The area is famous for the quality of its cuisine, and at any village restaurant you will find excellent food at low prices. Truffles and wild Porcini mushrooms are abundant in the forests and many local trattorias serve porcini-based dishes that you simply won't find anywhere else. Locally produced wines include Trebbiano, Rocca del Falco and the world famous Montepulciano d'Abruzzo.
The nearby resort of Pescara has fantastic shopping and seafood restaurants. Ferries run from here to Croatia and the Tremiti Islands, ideal for a day trip, and yachts are available to charter from the marina. There is also Pineto, a resort known for its pine woods.
The house is ideally located for exploring the region, due to its central position, being just 35 mins from the sea and approximately 40 mins from the mountains.
Rome is approximately 2 hrs 10 mins away by car, and is a beautiful drive through the mountains.
The nearby resort of Pescara has fantastic shopping and seafood restaurants. A 35 minute drive takes you to Montesilvao with its lovely beach. There is also Pineto, a resort known for its pine woods. The Passo Lanciano ski resort is approx 45 mins drive (www.passolanciano.com), and an excellent 18 hole golf course is approx 40 mins drive away.
Nearest airport: Pescara (40 mins drive). Also within easy reach are Ancona (approx 1 hr 50 mins) a Rome (approx 2 hrs 10 mins).
Car hire is not essential due to public transport, but is highly recommend to make the most of your stay.
Included in the price: Electricity,Gas (May - September), Water, Bed Linen, Towels & Final Cleaning
Please Note:
Non-smokers only please. Sorry no Pets
Airports: PESCARA, ANCONA OR ROME
Although the house has a garage, this is only really suitable for motorbikes, due to the narrow street outside. Free public parking is available nearby.
Short breaks are always welcome (min 4 nights)
Change over day: Flexible
DISCOUNTS:
Ł20 discount per week if only 2 guests are staying
10% discount on the second week of a 14 night stay
Special discounts are also avilable for longer stays (max 4 weeks)
Please view our website: www.holidayinpenneabruzzo.com for more information