How to reach Villa Bramasole

A Journey Through the Heart of Cortona

“As you walk through the cobbled streets of Cortona, a warm breeze carries the scent of cypress and rosemary. You are tracing the same steps that Frances Mayes took when she fell in love with this place—until, finally, Bramasole appears before you, bathed in the golden light of Tuscany.”

Bramasole: The Villa Where Dreams Took Root

Villa Bramasole is more than just a house—it’s a symbol of rebirth, beauty, and the irresistible allure of Tuscany. Made famous by Frances Mayes’ memoir Under the Tuscan Sun, Bramasole has become a pilgrimage site for travelers seeking to connect with the magic of Cortona. Whether you’re drawn by the book or the film adaptation, visiting Bramasole is like stepping into a story where the lines between reality and fantasy blur.

A Note for Visitors Before we begin, it’s important to know that there are two Villas Bramasole in Cortona: the original villa, where Frances Mayes lived and wrote, and the second villa, used as a filming location for the movie. This guide will take you to the original Bramasole, the true heart of the story. As you embark on this journey, we kindly ask you to respect the tranquility of the area. Keep noise to a minimum, limit your visit to 5-6 minutes, and bring water and comfortable shoes. Now, let’s begin your walk through the enchanting landscapes of Cortona.

The Walk to Bramasole: A Path Steeped in Beauty

1. Start in Piazza della Repubblica
Begin your adventure in the heart of Cortona, Piazza della Repubblica. This lively square, with its medieval charm and bustling cafes, is the perfect starting point. As you walk along Via Nazionale, let the cobblestones beneath your feet guide you toward Piazza Garibaldi.

2. Pause at Piazza Garibaldi
Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking panorama of the Valdichiana valley. The rolling hills, dotted with cypress trees and vineyards, stretch out before you like a painting. This is the Tuscany you’ve dreamed of—the Tuscany Frances Mayes fell in love with.

3. Enter the Park of Parterre
From Piazza Garibaldi, make your way to the Park of Parterre. Here, you’ll find a dirt road lined with olive trees and wildflowers. As you pass the fountain (a charming spot, though not the one from the movie), let the scent of earth and greenery fill your senses.

“The road winds gently uphill, flanked by ancient stone walls and wildflowers. The song of cicadas fills the air, and in the distance, you catch a glimpse of olive groves stretching towards the horizon.”

“After a short stop at Parterre Park, where locals relax under the shade of chestnut trees, take the unpaved alley past the old fountain. You’ll soon find yourself on a path lined with whispering pines, the same path Frances Mayes walked as she dreamed of restoring Bramasole.”

4. Follow the Path to Bramasole
Continue walking for about 20 minutes until you reach the Tennis Club. Bypass it and stay on the paved road, where the landscape opens up to reveal sweeping views of the valley. The air is filled with the hum of cicadas and the distant chirping of birds.

As you round a shady bend, Villa Bramasole will come into view. Its golden stone walls, draped in ivy, seem to glow in the sunlight. This is the place where Frances Mayes found her sanctuary, and where countless readers have imagined themselves living out their own Tuscan dreams.

“And then, just as the road bends, it appears—Bramasole, glowing softly in the afternoon sun. A house that became a dream, a story, and a symbol of new beginnings.”

A Moment at Bramasole

Standing before Bramasole, it’s easy to see why this villa captured Frances Mayes’ heart. The tranquility, the beauty, the sense of timelessness—it’s all here. Take a few moments to absorb the atmosphere, to imagine the laughter and love that filled these walls, and to feel the connection to a story that has touched so many lives.

Route on foot (to go)

The Return Journey: A Taste of Tuscan Life

1. Walk to Torreone

This path is about 40 minutes walk

After your visit, continue along the dirt road for about 15 minutes until you reach the small hamlet of Torreone. Here, you’ll find a cozy bar “Caffe del Torreone own from Giommetti’s family” where you can rest and recharge. Treat yourself to a glass of local wine or a plate of Prosciutto Crudo con Melone—a classic Tuscan pairing that perfectly captures the flavors of the region.

“As you stand before Bramasole, you can almost hear the echoes of the book’s pages turning, whispering stories of love, renovation, and the irresistible pull of Tuscany. And as you make your way back, the golden light of sunset makes everything feel like a dream you’ll never want to wake up from.”

2. Explore the Poggio of Cortona
Refreshed and rejuvenated, make your way to the Poggio, a hillside area on the edge of Cortona. As you walk, the valley unfolds before you in all its glory. If you time your walk for sunset, the golden light will bathe the landscape in a warm, magical glow.

3. Enter Through Porta Montanina
Your journey ends at Porta Montanina, one of Cortona’s ancient city gates. Step through and lose yourself in the narrow, winding streets of the town. Let the rhythm of Cortona guide you—whether to a quiet piazza, a hidden chapel, or a charming trattoria.

Route on foot (return path)

Why This Walk is Special

This route isn’t just a walk; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to connect with the soul of Cortona, to walk in the footsteps of Frances Mayes, and to create your own memories in a place where time seems to stand still. Whether you’re a fan of the book, the movie, or simply the beauty of Tuscany, this journey to Bramasole will stay with you long after you’ve left.

Tips for Your Visit

Best Time to Go: Early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and the crowds are few.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, a camera, and a sense of wonder.