Borgo di Vagli, Cortona
The lowdown
A one-time guard tower for nearby Pierle castle, this resorted 14th-century hamlet offers the chance to experience the ‘real’ Tuscany through fractional ownership.Owners receive a fractional interest (1/10th, 1/15th or 1/20th) which gives them several weeks at any of Borgo di Vagli’s 21 charming properties during the year, based on availability. It means you can reap the rewards of having your own, no-hassle home in Tuscany, with maintenance and repairs all taken care of. And handily, your fraction can be sold, willed, transferred or placed in a trust at any time.
What makes it special?
How authentic it is. Borgo di Vagli is hidden in an unspoiled part of the Tuscan countryside. Set in the Niccone Valley atop a hill with enchanting views, you’ve got some of Italy’s best scenery on your doorstep The hamlet only accessible via a long and dusty 1,000-year-old track so there’s a real exclusivity to the place.
Specialist Architect Fulvio Di Rosa transformed Vagli from a wreckage to the treasure it stands today. The restoration project took 10 years to complete. Fulvio took great care in maintaining the hamlet’s original structure, so you’ll find yourself ducking under 14th-century doorways and low-slung beams, peering through tiny windows onto the valley, and relaxing under ancient olive trees.
You’ll still enjoy your home comforts though, like designer linen, artisan toiletries, WiFi and Sky TV (not that you’ll need it). All kitchens are fully equipped kitchen for preparing the local Italian produce sold at the mini market. There’s a housekeeping and concierge service, too, so you can relax, chore-free.
Wining and dining
Borgo di Vagli’s regulars will tell you that the food is simply unforgettable. The resident chef, Dina Fragai, serves up hearty evening meals in the cosy trattoria.
We’re talking true, home-cooked Italian food. Dina and her family have been a part of Vagli since day one, in fact, the biggest residence there was once Dina’s family home. During the restoration, Dina herself planted the olive trees and searched for water sources. Passionate and incredibly hard-working (not to mention an amazing chef), her cooking is a real highlight.
The real Vagli charm can be experienced most at Dina’s famous pizza night, where guests of all ages and nationalities join together around large tables to enjoy no less than seven courses of pizza. Yes, seven.
Things to do
Borgo di Vagli’s knowledgeable and friendly concierge will happily arrange activities during your stay. Enjoy wine-tasting in the nearby charming town of Cortona, visit the historical Lake Trasimeno or set out on one of the many hiking tracks through the valley.
As all owners will tell you, though, the best way to experience Vagli is to simply do nothing and to just unwind among the breathtaking surroundings with the people you love most.
Anything else?
I did experience a Scorpion or two during my stay but just so you know they’re completely harmless, however, it’s worth bearing in mind if you’re not a bug person.
You can book a no-strings discovery visit, if you’d like to experience the magic of Vagli yourself.
Borgo di Vagli, Località Vagli, I-52040 Mercatale di Cortona, Italy
W: www.clubborgodivagli.com
T: +39 0575 61961
E: reception@borgodivagli.com
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