The scene unfolds in cinematic splendor. The lovely American woman seeking new purpose happens upon an equally lovely—yet not equally well-preserved—villa while on a soul-searching trip in the Tuscan hillside city of Cortona. Who among us watched Under the Tuscan Sun without fantasizing about own trip to Tuscany, knee-deep in a renovation of a weary, timeworn, 17th-century villa that we could bring back to life? How many more of us have dreamt of escaping to Tuscany in a luxurious environment that’s already been meticulously finished for us? A little over 100 miles to the southwest from Cortona, where the famed hills give way to a lush valley that spills out into the Orbetello Lagoon, Argentario Golf Resort & Spa in Maremma is making that a reality.
Once named the “Best Luxury Hotel in Italy” by Overseas Living Magazine, Argentario has now introduced Argentario Golf Residences, a premier offering of villa residences that quickly found its footing in a studied luxury tourism market; more than a third of the villas have already been sold.
“Argentario Resort is an all-encompassing luxury retreat with design at its heart,” says Cassiano Sabatini, vice president of Coldwell Banker Italy, who is handling the sales. “Old world glamour is given a contemporary makeover, as state-of-the-art facilities meet the seductive charm of an indulgent Tuscan hideaway nestled between vineyards and the sea.”
Architectural Distinction
Forgoing rustic Mediterranean design for a decidedly different approach, the Argentario resort showcases contemporary architecture juxtaposed against its rugged Mediterranean setting. In place of terracotta and wrought iron are clean lines and modern finishes.
“Italy has always been at the forefront of design,” said Sabatini. “From renaissance to baroque to rococo to today, Italy is a world trendsetter in architecture and design.”
Designed by noted interior designer Andrea Fogli of Stefania Tognoloni & Partners, whose keen eye and able hand informed the design of the resort’s hotel rooms, the new residences are offered in three sizes and three interior styles. Each features a lagoon or golf course view, a private terrace with hot tub, a private cart with parking area and high-end Italian furniture. The Locker Cottage model home provides a taste of what owners can expect, with sleek yet comfortable furnishings reflective of the Argentario lifestyle, and contemporary furniture and art that complements the distinctive architecture.
An Ideal Location
Luxury, privacy, and access—that’s the enviable combination of characteristics offers in Maremma. Here, you’re enveloped by the majesty of the Tuscan hills and surrounded by an incredible tableau of unspoiled natural beauty, from the deep blue of the sea, to the vast sandy beaches of Feniglia and Giannella, to centuries-old olive trees, to the verdant green expanses. And while it feels like a private getaway, it’s uniquely positioned for enjoyment of some of the most beloved tourist spots in Italy.
“This area of Tuscany is little known by foreigners, so it is the perfect place for those who wish to escape from mass tourism, yet would like to be near world-famous spots,” adds Sabatini. “For example, day trips can be easily organized to Rome, Pisa, Siena and Florence. Apart from the strategic and exclusive location, Maremma is a beautiful land, offering different kinds of striking landscapes and a variety of year-round activities, such as sailing, cycling, diving, golf, eco-tourism in nature reserves, hot springs and spas, wine tasting and foodie experiences.”
Of course, it’s understandable if residents and guests don’t often venture too far from Argentario. After all, ownership at the villas also includes access to the vast resort amenities of the hotel, including the 18-hole championship golf course that’s BioAgriCert accredited for its eco-friendly features; the Dama Dama Restaurant and The Bar, known for fresh, local ingredients and gourmet cuisine; and the luxurious Espace Spa, renowned for its array of soothing treatments and organic products. Five-star, concierge-level services are also provided, including regular maintenance, gardening, security, housekeeping, concierge and valet. It’s no surprise this luxury lock-and-leave experience has connected with both the discerning traveler and savvy investor, especially given the flexibility to visit as often as you desire and enjoy income opportunities and property management the rest of the year.
“Guests have the most varied services at their fingertips, from the restaurant serving Tuscan classics revisited in a modern and creative way, to the golf, sports and wellness facilities, to areas and programs for children,” notes Sabatini. “The stylish and spacious spa is certainly impressive, with its black-and-white retro design, large windows overlooking the Mediterranean greenery, and wide array of services ranging from a heated indoor pool with saline water to a high-tech gym. The pristine beaches and boating opportunities are also fantastic. This is the lifestyle that luxury buyers want, in their preferred location.”
