Perugia, Umbria 06122

The unique location of this beautiful family home for sale only 12 km from Perugia ensures its future tranquility. Only a small organic vineyard separates it from Umbria's state owned and most prestigious Renaissance residence, La Villa del Colle del Cardinale, and because of the importance of the Villa and its park and botanical gardens - plus the beauty of the countryside - the surrounding area is protected from any further development.The house actually predates the Villa. It was built in the early 1500's as part of an Augustinian monastery and many of the original features (the fireplaces, arches, beautiful beams and terracotta floors) have been preserved by the subsequent owners of this very special home. The house sits on a hill surrounded by vineyards, fields, olive groves and woodlands. The large, terraced garden has a variety of well-established trees including, oak, magnolia, pine, linden, plum, fig, apple and walnut. Truffles grow beneath the trees. The adjoining field, which also belongs to the property, looks stunning when sown with a sea of sunflowers, but could also be planted with vines or olives. It is also the perfect place for a pool.This warm and inviting house is on three levels. The ground floor, originally the wine cellars, is now a large, independent, beautifully restructured two-bedroom flat that is very popular on both holiday rental and home exchange sites. The two upper floors are the family home. This comprises two large living rooms, two dining rooms, kitchen, music room, study, laundry, cellar, linen room, three bathrooms, a guest toilet and seven bedrooms. The house has a heritage listing but this only applies to the exterior of the building. The interior could easily be altered to suit the requirements of a future owner.The original monastery was built around a 12th century signal tower, now part of the neighbouring property. A shared courtyard featuring a stunning medieval archway and a beautiful centuries old well divides the two original monastic wings that face in different directions and are completely independent of each other. Access to the main house is not through this courtyard. The current owners of the property have always found having neighbours an asset rather than a problem. This beautiful home, situated halfway between Umbrias vibrant capital, Perugia, and Lake Trasimeno, an oasis of calm on the Tuscan border, is, as it always has been, a peaceful haven in the Umbrian hills.Nearby attractions:- The Cardinal's Villa: Originally the summer residence of Cardinal Fulvio della Corgna, the villa is open to the public at weekends and on request or for specific events such as concerts, garden shows etc.- Antognolla Golf: Designed by the famous Robert Trent Jones Junior this spectacular 18-hole course is renowned as one of the best in Italy and is only 9kms from the house.- Marana Horse Riding: In the hills behind the house - lessons for beginners and trekking for experts.- Wine tasting: The house is in the D.O.C. Territory known as Trasimeno's Hills (Colli del Trasimeno) and many local vineyards are open to the public.- Lake Trasimeno: The fourth largest lake in Italy. Renowned for its beautiful surrounding villages, islands, water sports, great restaurants and its many festivals. Possible activities include sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, fishing, ferry rides, swimming and cycling. A bike track of just under 60 km goes right around the lake.- Perugia: The Umbrian capital, famous for its Etruscan and medieval monuments and fascinating history, the vibrant student life revolving around its two universities (one is The University for Foreigners. The oldest and most prestigious institution in Italy for the teaching of the Italian language and culture), breathtaking views from the city walls and its numerous festivals including Umbria Jazz and Eurochocolate.- Assisi: Birthplace of Saint Francis. This beautiful, World Heritage town is only 40 minutes from the house.- The Monte Subasio Park -