Nestled in the hills between Chianti and Valdarno, Villa Beta is a 17th-century residence set within a botanical park of nearly 3 hectares (≈ 72.7 acres). The estate is located close to Montevarchi and Gaiole in Chianti and has been carefully restored by its current owner, a Tuscan architect and designer.
The Villa
The property has a total area of approximately 1,205 m² (≈ 12,970 ft²) and includes eleven rooms divided into multiple living units. The main villa covers 765 m² (≈ 8,230 ft²) with eight bedrooms and seven bathrooms across three levels. Additionally, there is an annex building of 270 m² (≈ 2,910 ft²) with three bedrooms and three bathrooms, as well as various storage areas and a garage.
Main Villa (765 m² / 8,230 ft²)
Ground Floor – Main Apartment:
- Entrance hall
- Dining room and kitchen
- Large living area
- Private lounge
- Study
- Two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms
- Guest bedroom
- Main bathroom
First Floor – Two Separate Guest Apartments:
Apartment 1:
- Living area with dining space and kitchen
- Lounge
- Two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms
Apartment 2 (separate entrance):
- Living area with dining space and kitchen
- Three bedrooms
- Bathroom
Basement:
Historical cellar rooms suitable for wine storage or general storage
Annex Building (270 m² / 2,910 ft²)
Two additional living units on ground and first floors with a total of three bedrooms and three bathrooms
Basement houses garage and storage rooms
Additional Structures
Two storage halls (60 m² / 645 ft² and 80 m² / 860 ft²)
Garage with canopy for up to four vehicles (30 m² / 323 ft²)
Architecture and Features
Originally dating from the 17th century, the villa was built during the transition from Renaissance to Baroque. Its current architectural style reflects late 19th-century renovations with eclectic influences of that period.
During the most recent restoration, fresco cycles were uncovered decorating the living and reception rooms. The murals feature floral and geometric motifs as well as trompe-l'œil architecture. A cycle depicting the four seasons once existed; part of it was lost due to 19th-century structural changes.
Original terracotta floors and historic wooden doors have been preserved, seamlessly integrating with the overall aesthetic.
The Botanical Park
The estate includes approximately 29,400 m² (≈ 7.3 acres) of parkland. The park was created by Giuseppe Gaeta, a lawyer and plant enthusiast, and hosts over 160 botanical species from various regions, with a focus on North American flora. Notably, the first Douglas fir in Italy once stood here.
The park is classified as a local protected area. The current owner has used it for exhibitions, installations, and artist residencies. It is well suited for private events or as a tranquil retreat.
Location and Accessibility
The nearest village with basic services is 900 meters away. Montevarchi (9 km / 5.6 mi) offers full infrastructure and highway access to the A1, providing Florence in under an hour.
Selected Distances:
- Gaiole in Chianti: 18 km / 11 mi
- Radda in Chianti: 22 km / 13.7 mi
- Arezzo: 47 km / 29 mi
- Siena: 52 km / 32 mi
- Florence: 58 km / 36 mi
Airports:
- Florence: 75 km / 46 mi (≈ 1 hour)
- Pisa: 135 km / 84 mi (≈ 1 hour 40 min)
- Rome Fiumicino: 271 km / 168 mi (≈ 2 hours 45 min)
Potential Uses
The division into multiple living units allows for a variety of uses: a spacious family residence, luxury vacation rental, or artist residency. Additional rooms can serve as workshops, studios, or event spaces.
A swimming pool can be applied for with the Municipality of Montevarchi.
