An elegant Tuscan villa for your holiday in Mugello
Villa La Dogana, an ancient castle on the border of the former Granducato di Toscana, is situated in the middle of an unspoiled countryside in the Apennine mountains to the north of Florence.
It is surrounded by chestnut, oak and fir woods and by fields where wild deer, hares, wild boars and pheasants live freely.
The impressive severe structure of the villa-castle, completely refurbished, hides within its interiors a warm welcoming atmosphere which reflects the countryside surrounding it - both rugged and sweet at the same time.
From the tower of the castle, one can see in the distance the valley of Barberino di Mugello and the Lake of Bilancino and, at the same time, get the impression of being in a place lost in time.
At Dogana, only a few kilometres from Florence, guests can enjoy the peace of nature lying by the swimming pool close to the house surrounded by the large, enclosed garden; amble through the fields and the numerous trails nearby (marked by the Italian Alpine Club, CAI, in red and white paint) or explore the vast property of Dogana.
Mountain-bike lovers can enjoy themselves following the paths leading to the border of Tuscany and beyond; for lovers of water sports, sailing, windsurfing and canoeing, there are various places, such as Bilancino Lake, in the vicinity.
A short distance away, there is a flying school for micro-light gliders and so on.
The Mugello Grand Prix racing circuit is also very closeby where you can attend the Moto Mondiale (motorbike championships) and the 18-hole Poggio dei Medici Golf and Country club, one of the most beautiful in the country, is in the area.
Accommodation in the Villa
The ancient castle (about 650 sq. m) was lovingly refurbished to maintain its original features.
Located in the middle of a wide, enclosed garden, the villa offers large lawns and a pergola perfect for relaxing and dining outdoors. The gardens are also suitable for small ceremonies and parties, such as an outdoors wedding ceremony. A large beautiful swimming pool with changing room and shower offers the perfect setting for enjoying the Tuscan sun.
Dogana, being so near to the Highway A1 - Barberino di Mugello exit (10 Km), makes it really easy to reach all of the important cities in Tuscany. In about 30 minutes you arrive in Florence, in an hour and a half Pisa and Siena. Furthermore, in the immediate vicinity of La Dogana in the Mugello you can visit important historical, architectural and cultural sites including the Medici Villa of Cafaggiolo and the Trebbio Castle.
Restaurant La Dogana
The farm restaurant, only 400 meters from the villa, offers excellent Tuscan dishes, including homemade pasta as well as game and farm products at incredibly low prices.