Lusso Collection Adds Tuscany Property, La Ripa

By: Destination Club News
Date: September 19, 2008

Boutique destination club Lusso Collection has made their first foray into the European market with the addition of their stunning new property in Tuscany, La Ripa.

Following the results of their 2007 membership survey where 93% of members sought European destinations, Lusso began to actively pursue a home in their members' most requested area, Italy.

La Ripa is located within 27 private acres of famed rolling Tuscan hills and olive groves. Built over 500 years ago, the stone farmhouse has been meticulously restored to preserve its traditional Tuscan architecture. Rustic stone fireplaces and brick archways allow you to step into the past while you can still enjoy all the conveniences and contemporary design of today.

Just outside of Cortona, La Ripa features five bedrooms, four private baths and nearly 4,000 square feet of living space. Relax beside the private pool or bike the majestic Tuscan roads. The choice is yours.

Ideally located for easy access for day trips to Florence and Rome, La Ripa will serve as a "base camp" for all of your excursions into the heart of Italy. The Veras Group suggests the following activities:

Uffizi Gallery
Built in 1581 and originally designed by Giorgio Vasari, a leading 15th century architect and painter. Originally intended for office spaces and to house meetings for magistrates, Uffizi now holds some of the world's finest art. During lunch, get your meal at half off the dinner price.

Lunch at Cibreo
Nestled in the heart of the historic Santa Croce district, Cibreo features one of the regions most authentic Tuscan menus and an old-fashioned charm you will never forget.

Ponte Vecchio
One of only six bridges in Florence spared by the retreating German army, Ponte Vecchio, Italian for "Old Bridge," was originally built in the 10th centry before being rebuilt following widespread flooding of the Arno. One of the few bridges that still have shops built along it, Grand Duke Fernandino I issued an edict removing the butchers that once made up most of the shops and have been replaced by art dealers and jewelers, making Ponte Vecchio a souvenir's delight.