Casa Calboccia - A Hilltop Sanctuary Between Umbria and Tuscany

Description

Calboccia, a lovingly restored 500-year-old stone farmhouse that has been in our family for three generations, offers a rare retreat on a quiet ridge between Umbria and Tuscany. Surrounded by over 100,000 acres of nature, this historic property invites writers, artists, hikers, and those seeking solitude to embrace peace and creative renewal. Additional photos: Casa grande downstairs: https://photos.app.goo.gl/SugebGWfiQaf5DFq5 Casa grande upstairs: https://photos.app.goo.gl/JEgbowcDn639fc4HA Essiccatoio: https://photos.app.goo.gl/5Z5GSVhCEXi864Zh9 Grounds: https://photos.app.goo.gl/aVzw5y59XYzNZuMG6 Casa Calboccia has three units that can be rented either individually or in combination to accommodate a range of group sizes: Essiccatoio (cottage) has one bedroom and full bath downstairs, combined living room / dining room / full kitchen upstairs. There is also a wrap-around terrace on the upper level (sleeps 2). Calboccia (the casa grande) has two separate units that can either be combined via an internal staircase, or separated via a hatch at the top of that staircase. The upstairs also has independent access via an external stone staircase. It features a living room, two bedrooms, full bath, and dine-in full kitchen (sleeps 5 max). The downstairs features a formal dining room, full kitchen, one bedroom, full bath, and large living room with sleeper sofa. The downstairs also has a glorious west-facing terrace (sleeps 5 max). The Essiccatoio and casa grande sit across the driveway from each other. Close enough for friends to enjoy each other's company, and also separate enough so that different parties never feel in each others' hair. The sight lines are also such that they afford each unit privacy, even in the exterior spaces. There is no pool, but there are hammocks, two wood-burning pizza ovens, an outdoor shower, and endless space for restoration and renewal. We invite you to slow down. Calboccia overlooks the Niccone Valley, one of central Italy’s most serene and unspoiled landscapes. Rolling hills, olive groves, and ancient stone farmhouses define this quiet stretch of countryside, where time seems to move at a gentler pace. The valley follows the path of the Niccone River toward the Tiber River valley, and is framed by hilltop ridges of oak and chestnut. Small villages dot the hillsides, offering glimpses of rural Italian life, from open markets to traditional festivals. The air here carries the scent of wild thyme and mint; the sounds of birdsong and distant church bells punctuate the silence. Ideal for hiking, cycling, and quiet exploration, the valley attracts artists, writers, and travelers seeking reflection and connection rather than crowds. Its central location makes it easy to reach the hill towns of both Umbria and Tuscany, yet it remains relatively insulated from heavy tourism. In every season, the Niccone Valley invites you to quiet your pace, savor the landscape, and feel part of a living tradition rooted in nature, community, and timeless beauty. ***** A little about us: We are an Austrian-American family that splits our time between California and Umbria. Having spent 40 years in the Niccone Valley, we are united by a love of nature, creativity, and Italian life. Our days at Calboccia often revolve around cooking, hiking the region's ancient footpaths, creative pursuits, and gardening. The terrace and shaded lawns are our gathering places for meals, reading, croquet, sometimes a spirited game of volleyball, and watching the children chase fireflies on warm June nights. We enjoy every season at Calboccia. We cherish the friendships we’ve built with local artisans, farmers, cheesemakers, and winemakers, learning from their traditions and generosity. Our time in Italy is an ongoing exchange of culture, creativity, and gratitude. Calboccia reflects that spirit: a home shaped by curiosity, community, and care for the land.