general information

Sitting at the foot of the hill of Cortona, Ippocastano is a perfect base for exploring this hilltop town, who's complex history is as interesting as its beautiful location and architecture. Visible from all around and dominated by the Medici fortress, it is surely one of the finest examples of a hilltop town in all of Tuscany. The town is surrounded by ancient walls that have protected the interior and preserved its mediæval charm, allowing you to explore the largely unchanged winding streets on foot (View a map of our location in Tuscany).

The origins of Cortona are shrouded in mystery; it was already established and part of Umbria when it fell into the hands of the Etruscans, who drained the surrounding marshland to form the fertile plain of Valdichiana. It was taken by the Romans, and then the Goths who razed the town; over the intervening centuries it became independent, battling with the neighbouring city states. It had various owners before becoming a possession of Florence, where it remained.

There are many festivals and fairs held in and around Cortona, from the antiques fair (end of August/beginning of September) to the nearby Umbria Jazz festival in July (although Cortona is in Tuscany it has many ties with Umbria) which sees the city transformed into jazz heaven.

Ippocastano is well served by public transport, being near both the bus routes and the train station; it is also near the local shops and restaurants. A private swimming pool and tennis court are provided, and we can arrange swimming courses and tennis instruction with accredited instructors on request. Guided tours and horseback excursions can also be arranged upon request and bicycles and a scooter can be provided for your own exploration of the area. Please View on Google Map our location.

Pets are allowed on the premises (yes, you can bring Fido!), and we have games and a play area to keep your children amused while you relax by the pool. Parking for guests and a barbeque is also provided.

For short stays prices range from Euro 28 - 40 per person per day depending on season
with a discount of 5-10% on groups of 5 or more people in one apartment.

Click on the images below to view a larger version, and view the apartments on the following pages.