Classic stone house in the beautiful rolling hills of central Italy

About this assignment

Someone reliable, honest and independent to look after our house and 2 dear cats. To be flexible, at least a little adventurous :). A nature lover that, like us, prioritizes a natural approach to property maintenance and animal care, rather than resorting to chemical products.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

Taking care of the house and garden and keeping it in the state in which they find it. Watering plants on a regular basis. During our absence there should be no need for grass-cutting. And last but not least, caring for the cats so that they're calm and relaxed.

What are the good features of the property and location

The stone house is built in the classic Italian countryside style, and the interior appointments are a blend of rustic and contemporary, with original touches that distinguish it from similar homes (e.g 'stone carpet' flooring). The focal point of the house is the kitchen and dining room, and it has a covered outdoor patio with a stunning view of the Sibilline mountains. It also has a sizable pond that attracts birds, dragonflies, frogs and many other creatures. In the hot months of summer you can swim in the pond, as we do. There is also a brick pizza oven, and a wood shed. The property is about 3000 sq. m. and has an established garden with many flowers, plants and trees - including cherry, fig, apple and pear - all of which attract a variety of wildlife: birds, deer, butterflies, bees and more. There is also a vegetable garden, which this year will have only tomatoes, but the house sitters are welcome to plant their own and grow them naturally - no chemical pesticides.

The house is very private, while also having neighbours nearby, and it's close to numerous villages, towns & cultural attractions. Urbisaglia nearby has important Roman ruins, Assisi is an hour away, and Marche itself has a rich history in arts, architecture and culture - it is often referred to as 'Italy in one region'. Urbino in the north - birthplace of Raphael - was an important cultural centre that influenced style and behaviour throughout Europe from the late middle ages into the Renaissance, while Ascoli Piceno in the south has one of the most beautiful piazzas in all of Italy. Our provincial capital, Macerata, hosts an internationally renowned summer opera festival, and there are numerous other festivals in the towns and villages throughout the region.

The Adriatic Sea and its beaches are half an hour away to the east, while the central Apennine Mountains - known as the Sibillini, an area of colourful myths - are 40 minutes to the south/west, with endless hiking and exploration options.

What does the house sitter need to consider before applying for this assignment

The house sitters will have access to a vehicle, and will need to have had a driver's license for at least the past 3 years, and that is valid in Italy.

We would require that they can stay for the full period of our absence, arriving at least a day prior to our departure on 20th August, staying until we return on 25th September, and drive us to and from the train station on those dates.

We would also like to see references.

Can I bring my own pets?

No, sorry.

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