Tuscany is an ever-popular summer vacation destination, even with the weakened dollar. Tuscan villa rentals are in demand, destination clubs report that their homes in the Italian countryside are among the most sought after, and new luxury fractional ownership projects in the region are cropping up. One new fractional residence option is Borgo di Vagli, a fully restored 14th century Tuscan village that has shares starting at less than $100,000.

What’s for Sale

Borgo di Vagli has ten one- and two-bedroom residences available in one-tenth shares. Ownership, which offers unlimited lifetime usage, begins at €60,000 ($94,352) for a one-bedroom residence and €92,500 ($145,417) for a two-bedroom home. Annual club fees cover operating costs, including utilities, property taxes, and insurance. There is also a check-out fee upon departure and daily housekeeping costs extra, a service that most fractionals include in the annual dues.

What You Get

Fulvio di Rosa, a restoration architect and engineer, spent ten years refurbishing Borgo di Vagli’s thick stone walls, wood-beamed ceilings, and Italian tile and stone floors to resurrect its medieval look and ambiance. The homes combine a rustic look with modern amenities, coupling low ceilings, tiny windows, and antique rural Tuscan furnishings with fully equipped kitchens, high-speed Internet access and flat-screen televisions. Each restored residence has a vine and wisteria-covered pergola from which owners can enjoy the view of the Niccone Valley and Pierle Castle. The community also has an on-site concierge, a heated outdoor swimming pool, a candle-lit trattoria (read: no electricity), and miles of walking trails. In addition, since Borgo di Vagli is a member of the Registry Collection, owners can exchange their weeks for stays at other fractional communities.

The Halogen Guides Take

In addition to this development, other luxury fractional options in Tuscany include the fully restored 15th-century Palazzo Tornabuoni, which is managed by Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts and offers 36 residences in the city of Florence for fractional ownership. Prices range from €210,000 ($330,262) for a studio to €528,000 ($830,374) for a three-bedroom residence. There is also Castello di Casole, a 4,200-acre development from Timbers Resorts dotted with several restored four- and five-bedroom farmhouses that are sold in one-tenth fractions. Fractional shares at Castello di Casole start at just over $500,000. Borgo di Vagli is neither a palace like the Palazzo Tornabuoni nor does it mimic the series of multi-million dollar houses found at Castello di Casole. What distinguishes Borgo di Vagli from other fractional residences is its price. There is a trade off, of course. Homes are smaller, and therefore not ideal for a retreat with extended family, and its rustic nature means you won’t be spending your days lounging by your private infinity-edge swimming pool.

Another option for buyers who wish to stay in Italian homes, but want to avoid the weak pull of the dollar overseas, is a destination club membership. Tuscany ranks as the most popular European location for destination club homes. A new addition to Quintess’ real estate portfolio is a seven-bedroom villa that features a tower with 360-degree views of the countryside. Exclusive Resorts, Ultimate Escapes, High Country Club, and Distinctive Holiday Homes also have residences in Tuscany. But remember, since Tuscany is among the most popular vacation destinations for club members and often booked well in advance, snagging a reservation during the prime vacation seasons can be tough. That said, clubs with a presence in Tuscany often have other European homes, so if Italy is booked you’ll always have Paris.