Casa Barthel is a bit of peaceful Tuscan farmland just minutes from the hurly burly of downtown Florence. It is a wonderful place to relax and look at the stars after a day of sightseeing. The grounds are an amazing mix of clever architecture—which guarantees privacy for every guest—and thoughtful landscape design. We felt like we were part of her family, and took full advantage of the place: the tennis court, the supermarket in the nearby small town, and the lovely outdoor courtyard that serves as a common area. We at many of our meals alfresco. Florence can be a difficult place to get around, and the Casa is NOT near the center—-it’s a 20 minute bus ride. But the buses run regularly, and we were able to ride the bus home even after a late night in town.