Enjoy one the Best Destinations in the World

Explore Tuscany

Ecco Adesso Vineyards 2024


Italian for “here now,” Ecco Adesso offers unique guest retreats, private event spaces, a new wine pavilion, hiking trails with bubbling springs & waterfalls, orchards, an amazing selection of Virginia wines and ciders, and local fare. We are a family friendly and dog-friendly venue. We kindly ask that all pets remain on a leash when visiting. We invite you to enjoy the meadows, pack a picnic, grab a bottle of wine, and take in the endless mountain views!

Slow down, relax and leave your troubles at our gate. We invite you to come see what the Ecco Adesso lifestyle is all about. Come for the wine, stay for the experience.

Our owners, the Weatherly Family (Cierra & Michael with children Sienna & Mylan) have been longtime residents of neighboring Nelson County and split time between Virginia Beach. Cierra and Michael grew up and attended high school together in northeastern North Carolina and have been together for over 20 years.

The Weatherly Family loves travel and all things European (especially Italian). The family had been to Europe every year since 2005, but when all travel was stopped in 2020, they turned their full attention to the Blue Ridge — an area they have always considered their “Tuscany in the US.”




WHY ITALY?

Imagine a journey to the Italian peninsula, a place of unparalleled natural beauty. Picture rolling hills, dressed in the vibrant greenery of Mediterranean vegetation, adorned with timeless stone castles that have stood the test of centuries, and medieval villages alive with both the hustle and bustle of modern life and the echoes of age-old trade...

This picturesque scenery paints a landscape nestled between the resource-rich seas to the west, south, and east, and the imposing natural ramparts of the Alps to the north. It's a place that seamlessly combines its role as a maritime trade hub with its innate ability to defend itself from external forces, fostering a culture that has flourished for millennia at its heart.

As a local, I can tell you that amidst this idyllic Tuscan countryside, there's a special charm to be found. It's not just a villa; it's a place where generations of families have woven their stories into the fabric of the land. Here, life revolves around the pleasures of fine dining, savoring exquisite libations, and a profound appreciation for the highest forms of aesthetics. We take pride in our art, our architecture, and our time-honored traditions.

Come join us on a journey through this enchanting world, alongside dear friends, in an authentic setting blessed with epic vistas and idyllic accommodations. Experience the warmth of local hospitality and the sense of belonging that this land instills in us. We welcome you to become a part of our story, even if it's just for a while.

  • Rich History and Culture: Italy is home to some of the world's most iconic historical and cultural landmarks. From the ancient ruins of Rome, including the Colosseum and Roman Forum, to the Renaissance art and architecture in cities like Florence and Venice, Italy's history is palpable everywhere you go.
  • Art and Architecture: Italy boasts an incredible artistic heritage with masterpieces by renowned artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. You can admire their works in world-class museums, churches, and galleries.
  • Culinary Delights: Italian cuisine is celebrated globally for its deliciousness. Whether it's pizza in Naples, pasta in Bologna, or gelato in Florence, the food in Italy is a feast for the senses. Don't forget the fine wines, cheeses, and fresh seafood.
  • Beautiful Landscapes: Italy's diverse landscapes offer something for everyone. From the rugged beauty of the Italian Alps in the north to the picturesque rolling hills of Tuscany, and the stunning Amalfi Coast, the country's natural beauty is breathtaking.
  • Coastline and Beaches: Italy has some of the most stunning coastlines in the world, with the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and Sardinia being particularly famous for their crystal-clear waters, charming villages, and picturesque beaches.
  • Historic Cities: Italy is dotted with historic cities and charming towns, each with its own unique character and attractions. From the eternal city of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice and the artistic hub of Florence, there's always something new to explore.
  • Cultural Festivals: Italy hosts a plethora of cultural festivals and events throughout the year, including the Venice Carnival, Siena's Palio, and countless local food and wine festivals. These events offer a deeper understanding of Italian traditions and customs.
  • Warm Hospitality: Italians are known for their warm and welcoming hospitality. Visitors often feel like they are part of the family when they visit Italian homes or dine in local trattorias.
  • Shopping: Italy is a fashion and design hub. Whether you're interested in high-end fashion in Milan or artisanal crafts in Florence, there are plenty of shopping opportunities for all tastes and budgets.
  • Language and Learning: Learning or improving your Italian language skills can be a rewarding part of your trip. Italians appreciate when tourists make an effort to speak their language.



YOUR TRAVEL MATES

While traveling alone has certain advantages, we believe that visiting with a small group with shared interests can offer a level of enjoyment only had through shared experiences.

Given the community-minded nature of Italian culture, it seems fitting that we’d want to fill out this adventure with some of our favorite people. You’ll be joined on this excursion by other enthusiastic explorers. To keep the journey functionally coordinated you will also be accompanied by our hosts Giorgio Cecere & Simon Pastucha.

Please note: While The Tuscan landscapes offers some of the most amazing landscape views in the world as recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage, its beautiful hill towns require a fair amount of walking. A good overall physical health is needed; like with any physical activity, please consult your physician. While some towns offer conveniences like elevators; in some of these towns however elevators are not common. Most towns have uneven walking surfaces, elevation changes, steps, roads in hillside towns, comfortable walking shoes and attire are highly recommended.





INCLUSIONS:

What's planned for your stay
  • Accommodations for 10 nights
  • All meals included at Villa Martiena, (lunches are excluded every day)
  • Cooking Class
  • Wine tasting at specially selected local wineries and/or tasting rooms

Price & Dates:

Travel dates:
June 30th - July 10th, 2024

  • $4,999 per person (Double Occupancy)
  • $2,000 deposit per person
  • Single room occupancy (Please inquire)



ACCOMMODATIONS

Amazing Villa / farmhouse

Our home-base while in Italy will be the quaint-and-idyllic-as-can-possibly-be Villa Martiena, most conveniently perched atop a hillside (ie: gorgeous views), steps from the gates of the historic village of Montepulciano. The structure was originally built in the 700’s as an olive oil factory. It remained a factory up until 1927 and is one of the oldest structures in Montepulciano. In 1938 this historic site was converted into a residence as a part of a beatification and rescue effort by the city. In 1994 it was converted into the villa that stands today with the annex portion of the structure still retaining its original character.

Since purchasing Villa Martiena in 2017, Giorgio and Simon have been renovating and updating it while maintaining the historic charm and beauty of this truly unique property, and its exceptional views. Each room has its own en-suite bathroom for your comfort, and the villa is equipped with spacious grounds, a lovely pool, and several terraces for your idle enjoyment.

Please note; Depending on any sort of eventuality that may arise during our visits, on any of our Tuscan towns; At our discretion, we may change the itinerary and/or a scheduled city in order to provide the best experience for our guests.



SCHEDULE of EVENTS

Arrive in Florence at the time of your choosing. Accommodations at our guest hotel will be arranged for you for your arrival, and settle into our hotel there before the group enjoys walking this amazing city. The rest of the day is free for exploring the city, seeing the sights, and doing some shopping. We will gather at a local restaurant for some good food and celebrate tuscan cuisine "Bistecca Fiorentina"

A light breakfast will be served. Guests will board our bus to Cinque Terre for 2 awesome days with Simon and Giorgio for an amazing gateaway. We will arrive at our destination and settle into our rooms, before having a short orientation description of the area. After a restful night’s sleep in a pre-selected hotel, you can use this next day to freely explore Cinque Terre OR you can tag along and enjoy a casual walk with your guides.

We will wake up early, have our breakfast, then we leave right after, to the Etruscan Town of San Gimignano. We will be doing wine tastings followed by lunch then a second winery for more wine tasting. Around 3:00pm we will head out to our final destination Villa Martiena in Montepulciano

Wake-up to another fine day at the villa to enjoy breakfast before spending a full and resting day at Villa Martiena. You will have the chance to spend a lovely day the historic town of Montepulciano. Walk this amazing town about 1,500 feet away from the Villa. Other activities include: Cooking class and an in-villa wine tasting

Enjoy breakfast on the terrace of the Villa. A nice trip to Cortona, setting for the movie "Under the Tuscan Sun" to explore and shop these unique hillside towns. Before heading back to the villa, we’ll make a stop at one of the founding producers of Sangiovese wines in the area to enjoy a winery visit and tasting. Our evening dinner will be served at the Villa with local wines.

Enjoy breakfast on the terrace of the Villa before departing on a full day trip to the historic town of Siena; discover the beauty of this ancient town full of charm and history.

Following an early breakfast at the villa, we’ll head out for a full day trip to explore some more of this region. First up, an enchanting visit at the medieval Abbey Sant’Antimo. Enjoy this visual feast of architecture, walk in the well-worn footsteps of countless monks, and peruse their shop for house-made botanical goods, including soaps, salves, natural medicines, perfumes, and candies. Further down the way. we’ll stop in the town of Montalcino - home of the Brunello vines. Lunch will be at a restaurant serving local specialties, followed by a tasting and visit of a famous Brunello di Montalcino wine producers. Our last stop for the day will be a visit of the picturesque village of Pienza (renowned source of Pecorino cheese) for shopping and cheese tasting at a local producer. We’ll enjoy a light dinner together served with local wines, upon our return to the villa.

A light breakfast will be served at the Villa, the cooking class will be offered, and we’ll have a tasting of a local winery and their massive historic cellar. The rest of the afternoon and evening is free to explore Montepulciano or relax at the Villa. A light dinner and wine will be available at the Villa.

On July 10th at 9:00 am, we say our fond farewells and depart Villa Martiena. Our bus will take you to Chiusi Train Station. (If you need our assistance to help you get tickets for your train ride and/or any other accomodations will be offered upon request.) Also, you may also choose to prolong the stay to spend a few extra days for any of add-on extension packages, incliding Rome, Amalfi, Venice, etc; please advise your hosts of your interests. We will accomodates those request when you arrive at Villa Martiena during your stay with us

***please note: Dates, places and events might change depending on factors outside of our control.

Frequently Asked Questions


Are the first and last nights at the airport hotel included in the package price?

Yes, it is included in the price. There are a few exceptions - Please inquire


Are the hotel room nights Cinque Terre and Florence also included in the package price?

Yes, they are included in the price. Each hotel room will have an en-suite bathroom. Breakfast will be served daily at the hotel, lunch will be on your own, and at your convenience as you explore these beautiful areas, lastly dinner will be a group activity.


Are all train trips included in the package price?

Yes, train tickets are included in the price (1st class accommodations available upon request, where available, to trains for an added fee)


What is the maid’s service schedule for our room at the Villa?

The maid service is available daily at your request. Towels and linens are changed if required by you. We use exclusively environmental-friendly cleaning products of the highest quality. Maids comes everyday between 11AM and 3PM. Daily maid service at this time is included and it is limited to bedrooms and bathrooms.


Are coffee/water drinks available at the Villa for breakfast?

Water and espresso and American style brewed coffee are available for breakfast and throughout the day with meals at villa and also during scheduled events.


Are tips and gratuities included in the package price?

Tips and gratuities are not included. Tips and gratuities for villa staff are not part of the package, although not required, they are encouraged. Tips are always at the discretion of each guests


What are some of the amenities at the Villa?

The Villa has many amenities that include: pool and towel service, WiFi, access to grounds with gardens, olive groves, and terraces, reading library, electric bicycles (advance reservations are required), etc. Rooms are very ample and big in size all with the en-suite bathrooms; all rooms vary in size, some have great vistas of the landscapes and city views. Rooms will be assigned to guests as first-come-first-served at the time when we receive the full payment for your trip.

Electric Bikes for Montepulciano days are equipped with helmets and GPS Navigation systems for your driving comfort. These rentals are at the expense of the guest, and we will gladly make all necessary reservations for you if you are interested


Could you advise what to expect during our travel? What to pack? etc

When you are mobile, it's always important to be comfortable. Click HERE and follow these recommendations for a pleasant holiday, and to maximize your time in Italy.


Is there a per bottle/case charge to ship wine back to Ecco Adesso Vineyards?

We are negotiating with our wine broker to ensure that any shipping costs are either waived or reduced due to the quantity shipped - We are working hard to ensure that little cost is passed on to our guests. We can't determined if there will be a fee until we figure the quantity being shipped. The more wine is shipped, the less the fees are. Since we are buying under a single account, and shipping to a single location, we expect to have a lower costs.


Are there laundry facilities (washer & dryer) at the Villa?

Laundry services are available for a fee; turnaround is usually 24 hours Monday-Friday.


What do you recommend for cellular service?

The villa has a very dependable wifi system for your peripheral, however; it is advised that at least one person should have the international data plan on their mobile service. You would need to download and install the app called: "Whatsapp" from either the App or Google store.
"Please note":Whatsapp will be the only way that you will be able to communicate with your hosts while we are visiting towns and outside Villa Martiena.


Non Refundable Reservation

If you think that there will be a possibility to change or cancel your travel plans we encourage you to purchase a travel insurance that can refund the expenses of your trip Travel Insurance



Get in touch

If you have any questions, just fill in the contact form, and we will answer you shortly.





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