Villa La Dogana. Elegant castle in Barberino, Florence
Villa La Dogana, our family’s country home, is a charming little castle built in the 19th century on the border of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany. The villa comfortably accommodates 22+4 guests, with 10 spacious double bedrooms (two of which feature two queen-size beds each) plus an additional bedroom in the tower with a queen-size bed. There are 7 bathrooms, plus 1 separate toilet. The kitchen is fully equipped with double ovens, dishwashers, refrigerators, and more.
Guests will have exclusive access to the swimming pool (approx. 8x17 meters), complete with sunbeds and a shaded pergola. The villa overlooks a large lawn and a valley that gently slopes towards Lake Bilancino in the distance.
A 6-meter table under a gazebo on the main lawn is perfect for enjoying meals together al fresco. Next to the lawn, you'll find a large circular stone BBQ. The garden and pool are lit in the evening, creating a beautiful atmosphere. For outdoor activities, we offer lawn games such as volleyball, football, cricket, and table tennis, with plans for more.
With advance notice, we can arrange home-cooked meals in traditional Tuscan style for your arrival day or anytime during your stay, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Housekeeping assistance is also available upon request.
Villa La Dogana is located near Barberino di Mugello, where you’ll find all the amenities you need, including supermarkets and a large designer outlet featuring famous brands. The villa is less than an hour from Florence, accessible via highway or scenic country roads, and it’s also conveniently located near the Florence and Bologna airports.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you need any further information. I’ll be happy to assist.
Best regards, Donata
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Each child always has to be carefully controlled b
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Events
Events allowed
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Pets
Pets allowed
Animals are allowed under the responsibility of th
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Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Please do not smoke in bedrooms
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts cash
Parties and events are allowed on site
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number IT048017C2FTPY4J2R
We should mention
All guests, including children, must be present at check-in and show their government-issued photo ID card or passport
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 5000, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation
A car is required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Barberino di Mugello
Located in Barberino di Mugello, this villa is in a rural area. Terme di Porretta and Castello del Trebbio are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Bilancino and Corno Alle Scale Regional Park. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Mugello Circuit or Visarno Arena. Sailing offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking, horse riding and ecotours nearby.
Barberino Designer Outlet - 13 min drive - 13.2 km
Lake Bilancino - 16 min drive - 16.0 km
Path of the Gods - 17 min drive - 15.3 km
Cimitero Militare Germanico Della Futa - 18 min drive - 17.7 km
Castello Di Villanova Della Arno - 20 min drive - 19.6 km
Getting around
San Piero a Sieve Station - 30 min drive
Peretola Airport (FLR) - 43 min drive
Restaurants
Bar pasticceria Martinucci - 18 min drive
Area di Servizio Aglio Est - 26 min drive
MyChef - 26 min drive
Osteria Del Cavallino Bianco - 18 min drive
Da i'Pianca - 18 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does Villa La Dogana. Elegant castle in Barberino, Florence have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Villa La Dogana. Elegant castle in Barberino, Florence?
As of 31 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Villa La Dogana. Elegant castle in Barberino, Florence on 4 Apr 2026 start from AU$1,657, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Villa La Dogana. Elegant castle in Barberino, Florence pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much is parking at Villa La Dogana. Elegant castle in Barberino, Florence?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Villa La Dogana. Elegant castle in Barberino, Florence?
Check-in begins at 6:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Villa La Dogana. Elegant castle in Barberino, Florence?
Checkout is at 8:30 AM.
Where is Villa La Dogana. Elegant castle in Barberino, Florence located?
Located in a rural location, this family-friendly villa is 7.3 mi (11.7 km) from Lake Bilancino and 8.1 mi (13 km) from Barberino Designer Outlet. I Gigli Shopping Center and Prato Cathedral are also within 25 miles (40 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We had a fantastic stay at beautiful La Dogana.It is a stunning property! We thoroughly enjoyed all of the outdoor spaces which are thoughtfully curated for a very relaxing and the house itself is very spacious and easily accommodated all of our families - and is also stunningly beautiful and comfortable. Monica and her daughter cooked for us one night and it was absolutely delicious, I very highly recommend everyone to take advantage of their wonderful culinary offerings!We will definitely stay again!!!
Marina F.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Sept 2025
Marina, thank you!
It was truly a pleasure to host your wonderful group. The enthusiasm with which you enjoyed the house warms our hearts. La Dogana is a place full of beautiful memories for our family, and they are renewed every time we manage to go there.
That’s why we are so happy that it is appreciated by people like you, positive, easy-going, and respectful of the property.
Monica sends her regards and thanks you for the lovely moments spent together.
I hope your summer ended well!
Best regards,
Donata
Lovely, relaxing week for family getaway. Pool was especially nice for all. Property is very private, quiet with lots of space for kids to roam around.
We asked Monica for prepared meals for 3 dinners and one breakfast and all were exceptional - delicious, on time, lovely presentation.
Villa is very well equipped and functional for a large family.
Views were spectacular. Florence was a short drive away.
Stunning location, quiet area, lovely host and support team. Donata was very helpful. Monica and her entire family were terrific. We had an amazing time, from an immaculately kept pool, which we used daily, to pasta making lessons from Monica and her lovely family. Nothing was too much trouble. We had a great afternoon in a vineyard and we would highly recommend the local food market in the town on Saturdays. It is a peacful place with many fond memories. On the last evening we sat by the bonfire wishing not to leave and reflecting on our memorable stay.
Villa Dogana is a fantastic place! Not only the building itself but the extensive grounds. We were a group of eighteen, ages 12 to 73, celebrating my 70th birthday, and everyone loved it, everyone found a different aspect to enjoy: jumping in the pool, playing table tennis, lingering under the trees, a cooking competition in the three kitchens, a treasure hunt, dinner outdoors, dinner in the awesome downstairs dining room, singing and dancing in the moonlight by the pool, and some of us occasionally disappearing in one the three sitting rooms to work. There was something interesting to discover, a delight to be found at every corner. We were nice and cool on the hillside behind the thick ancient walls when the rest of Italy was sizzling under a heat wave. Thank you Donata and Monica!
Nous avons passé 15 jours merveilleux en famille à la villa Dogana.
La maison est superbe très grande avec un grand parc sans aucun voisinage.
La maison est très bien fourni en linge et matériel de cuisine.
La piscine a fait le bonheur de tous.
Enfin une mention spéciale à Monica et sa fille qui nous ont fait un succulent dîner et un cours de cuisine au cours duquel nous nous sommes bien amusés.
Merci à Donata et Monica pour leur gentillesse
L
Jean-Claude D.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Sept 2024
Cher Jean-Claude, je suis très heureuse que vous ayez passé de bons moments à la Villa La Dogana. Nous aimons beaucoup cette maison et, déjà enfant, j’y ai vécu des moments inoubliables. C’est pourquoi votre appréciation me fait tant plaisir, et je suis ravie d’accueillir des personnes aussi aimables que vous tous.
Monica aussi s’est beaucoup amusée à travailler avec vous et à vous donner le cours de cuisine. Elle vous salue tous !
Bon retour chez vous, cordialement, Donata.
We had 24 people ranging from nine months to seventy-four years of age. The rooms were lovely. Our teenage grand daughters thoroughly enjoyed being housed in the turret! The kitchen was very well appointed. The larger room with refrigerators, etc, was a great size for meal preparation.
We used every part of this beautiful villa. Most evening meals were prepared, in part, on the outdoor cooking facilities. All enjoyed being able to dine outside! The pool was especially lovely. Equipment for many outdoor sports was provided - and enjoyed!
This villa is very convenient to many larger cities. Our families took daily trips to a variety of different areas. They especially enjoyed the lake - visible from the pool!
Monica was fantastic. She quickly responded to any concerns and was most helpful answering questions about local resources. Francesco came daily to check on the pool. He was
delightful and quick to offer assistance.
We highly recommend this venue! David and Roberta Skelton
Fantastische tijd & verblijf in deze waanzinnig ambiance
Dit kasteel straalt de allure uit van vroeger tijden, waarbij je wel geniet van eigentijdse luxe. We hebben genoten van de prachtige omgeving op het perceel, de bijzondere inrichting van het kasteel en het gave zwembad. Laat vooral een heerlijke Toscaanse maaltijd voor je koken door Monica. Een dikke 10 van 10 scoort deze accomodatie en de agenten.
Great stay for groups. Amazing property, lovely hosts.
We spend four days in the villa for a company retreat, and we had a blast. Because we went there in October the pool was closed, unfortunate for us Dutchies, as the weather was great aka for us it HOT! But that was the only minus. The rest was great. The rooms are well decorated in old-Italian styles, like the rest of the villa. There's a lot of antique treasures in all the rooms, which is very impressive. Two hosts helped us out with anything, and most important: cooked delicious lunches and dinners for us. One afternoon we had a cooking class, and that was definitely one of the highlights of our trip. I can totally recommend going here with a group or family. Communication with the manager of the property was smooth and usually fast. She helped me arranging activities like karaoke (with DJ!) and a trip to Florence with a guided tour. Thanks, Donata & Monica!
Shiron B.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2019
About the host
Hosted by Donata
I am an architect since 2000, graduated in Florence but I love to travel and discover the world. Villa La Dogana is in my family for generations, and all of us have experienced some great moments and continue to love the place. The affection and dedication to the villa and the entire property that surrounds it (1000 hectares) brings all of us to have the care and attention that La Dogana deserves, maintaining and renewing its characteristic warmth, ease and fun.
Why they chose this property
I live in Florence but we have many guests who like to spend some time at Villa La Dogana, with or without us. Many consider this place a paradise. This is the reason why I decided to start renting the when we don't live it. Above all it gives us great pride to see customer satisfaction. It's also a great way to meet lovely new people.
What makes this property unique
We love to keep the villa to a high standard. In the quiet season we work a lot around the villa, making it every year more comfortable for us and for our guests. We pay careful attention to details, cleanliness but also efficiency of the whole house. We believe that the holiday is rest but also fun. The large swimming pool with elegant sun loungers, cushions on the lawn, pergolas and bersot, the 10 comfortable rooms, the suites in the tower and large beds combine to promote relax. The large and super equipped kitchen, fireplaces and barbeque for cooking enthusiasts, along with football goals, a volleyball net, walks and sightings of deer for the sport are all a good start for a great stay and fun for all ages. Villa la Dogana is situated at a height of about 650m above sea level: this privileged altitude allows to enjoy a mild climate in the summer, very much cooler than the nearby Florence. This is the reason why we have no air conditioning: usually just need to open the windows and enjoy the cool breeze of this peaceful countryside.