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Customer Reviews
Overall:
We loved the location the restored mill was beautiful, the home decor (mostly antiques were interesting), the internet was highly variable and could have lived forever without the dirt road. Everything worked and with Google Maps we wee able to travel to all our destinations. Some cute local communities and plently of good restaurants.
Enjoyed Most:
Location, location, location.
Enjoyed Least:
Remote as far as internet and cell phone and oh that dirt road!
Surrounding Area:
Breathtakingly beautiful. Easy access to local grocers as well as the Coop.
Nearby Events or Locales:
No town was within walking distance for us but several were only a 5 minute drive.
Tips or Restaurants:
Go with a group. We were alone and it would have been fun to have a larger group of people with us. Hardly anyone spoke English and we did not speak Italian so communication was difficult at times. Shame on us but still an inconvenience.
Directions:
Never would have made it without Google Maps. Rental car GPS was only in Italian.
Thomas, October
Overall:
Absolutely excellent.
Enjoyed Most:
Completely private and only 5 minutes to local stores and restaurants.
15 minutes to Siena to a great Coop supermarket.
Kitchen was well equipped with pots &pans etc.
Surrounding Area:
Convenient to two little towns for instant needs.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella is not within walking distance but only 7 min by car
Directions:
Directions were good especially when combined with GPS and GOOGLE EARTH.
Check In Out:
It was exactly as described and went very smoothly.
Kerby, June
Overall:
The property itself was in good condition, and the rooms were spacious and comfortable.
The owner was very pleasant and accommodating.
Enjoyed Most:
Rooms were large, good size kitchen. Lots of plates, glasses, large eating and living areas. Owner was pleasant.
Enjoyed Least:
The location was a little remote and added to day trips
Surrounding Area:
Quiet and bucolic
Nearby Events or Locales:
No. Nothing is within walking distance
Tips or Restaurants:
Osteria al Ponte. Great restaurant, incredible wine selection and knowledgeable staff. The Chef/Owner and Wife/Hostess/Front of Room, are truly wonderful people to dine with.
Directions:
Directions are fine.
Check In Out:
Be prepared to have to depart by 9:30 AM.
Joseph, May
Overall:
We had a wonderful time at the property
Enjoyed Most:
The amenities that were available. It was very well-prepared and stocked with everything needed for cooking, eating, relaxing, sleeping and everyday living.
Enjoyed Least:
The directions to the property could have been better and we struggled a bit to find it. Also, the dirt road leading to the property was dry, dusty and very rocky and bumpy.
Surrounding Area:
The peacefulness and lack of traffic in the area. The swimming pool was a good addition and we used it most days.
Nearby Events or Locales:
It was Pinella, probably about 4 - 5 kms , could walk but the dirt road would make it a bit uncomfortable. It had a couple of small stores where supplies could be purchased
Tips or Restaurants:
Nothing for the casa, as it is completely furnished. We found an excellent country restaurant about 1 - 2 kms from the casa called Trattoria Carlino Doro, very good food and wine, very reasonably priced.
Directions:
GPS would be very handy. We rented 2 cars in Siena and made our way from there.
Check In Out:
Both the check in and check out process went very smoothly. Our host was very accommodating, hard to improve on our experience.
Leo, September
Overall:
I found the property to be very restful, peaceful and lovely.
Enjoyed Most:
The fact that you could have some space by yourself even with 3 other couples. It was so peaceful.
Surrounding Area:
Looking at all the vineyards, and all the wonderful views.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The nearest small town was not in my range for walking, but for most I think it could have been.
Tips or Restaurants:
I think the future renters need only bring themselves. We went to one nearby restaurant, which was very good.
Check In Out:
I think it went very well.
Wendy, September
Overall:
We enjoyed the property and the surrounding area. The location is close enough to Florence and Siena, and yet we felt like we were in the countryside.
Enjoyed Most:
The peace and quiet. The grounds were very pretty.
Enjoyed Least:
The view from the property. It would have been great to see a view of the valley from a hillside.
Surrounding Area:
We enjoyed the small towns and vineyards that were in easy driving distance.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella. It was not in walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
Actually Franco was extremely helpful and provided good ideas and recommendations.
Directions:
We did use a GPS that I rented with the car. It was extremely helpful.
Check In Out:
Franco was at the property when we arrived and agreed to meet us very early on our Check Out day.
Thom, July
Overall:
Well beyond expectation and belief...it was a paradise.
Enjoyed Most:
Everything...it was convenient, quiet, clean, comfortable.
Enjoyed Least:
Cannot think of a thing
Surrounding Area:
Beautiful views, gorgeous castles, wineries, shops and easy access to San Gimignano, Siena and Firenze.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella was not within walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
In summer and fall there are mosquitos...so bring some bug spray
Directions:
Avoid driving through Siena if possible....best to drive along the superstrada from Firenze and instead use the GPS from Montevarche...it is must more convenient and scenic.
Check In Out:
The owner was gracious, helpful and timely.
Leo, September
Overall:
It was a wonderful experience overall. The owner, Franco, did a marvelous job of meeting us and introducing us to the property. The buildings were well maintained and nicely equipped with everything we needed for our stay. The location was convenient to all of the Chianti region.
Enjoyed Most:
The location was great, as it provided a good base for exploring the wineries and castles of Chianti and the rest of Tuscany. We also very much liked the spaciousness of the casa and grounds; it allowed us two couples to have space for ourselves as well as a nice setting for evening meals and relaxation.
Enjoyed Least:
It is in a valley setting so you do not get the sweeping vistas common in the surrounding area; also it is shaded for most of the day so you do not get the solar gain in the house during the day.
Surrounding Area:
The area is scenically beautiful and the castles and wineries are fascinating to visit. Many great restaurants and sites to enjoy within minutes of the casa.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella. Not within walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
The house was very well equipped and everything worked well, can't really think of much that you need to bring other than personal items. The guidebook supplied by RentVillas suggested we bring soap, toilet paper, salt and pepper, etc., but all those things were provided with at least enough to get us started.
Tours of the Capannelle winery in Gaiole and the Isodi winery in Monti were excellent. Capannelle requires a reservation made in advance and is quite fancy and they make super Tuscan wines, great tour and great tasting. We stumbled in to Isodi in Monti just followed a sign on the road leading from Monti to Brolio. This was a small family-owned winery, one of the owners opened up the tasting room for us. It was a much different experience than Capannelle, but just as fun. If you do only two tours, do these two--we did others that were fine, but these were the best.
Directions:
No problem finding the property. We did have GPS which agreed entirely with the route to the property provided by RentVillas. Just a comment on using the GPS in Italy: it wasn't an issue in the countryside, but sometimes in the cities (Florence, Siena) where there are turns close to one another, the GPS tended to lag and it was easy to miss a tur; the good news was you could generally recover and just go around the block.
Check In Out:
The check in with Franco was excellent. Unfortunately he was not available when we checked out and he sent his gardener for the check out. It went fine, but the gardener did not speak any English and our Italian is halting at best so there was a little confusion during the check out, but it all worked out just fine.
Paul, October
Overall:
We had a wonderful time and enjoyed the property immensely. Very private and beautiful surroundings.
Enjoyed Most:
We loved the pool, the garden-fresh veggies! and the feel of a rustic Italian Villa.
Enjoyed Least:
It was hard to find. For those not used to European toilets, it might take some getting used to, so be patient.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella was close by. A bit of a hike, but walkable (we did).
Tips or Restaurants:
Definitely book Matisse as a chef. He was wonderful and his food was even better.
Directions:
Driving in Italy is a pain in the butt. We Google-mapped our trips, but Italy uses "in the direction of" signs instead of street signs, so be prepared.
Carolyn, October
Overall:
We had a lovely one-week stay in September. Franco made us feel very at home and the 5 of us were sad to leave at the end of the week.
Enjoyed Most:
It is a beautiful, beautiful villa and garden. We ate outdoors every night that we stayed home, swam every day, and enjoyed the serenity of the property. The villa is comfortable and has a great collection of antiques inside. The white bathroom is quite large, and the yellow bathroom is moderate size. Everything is well taken care of as the owners stay here when it is not rented out.
We paid to have the pool heated while we were there; it would have been unusable otherwise. Well worth the 90 euro as the pool area is great for relaxing at. The outdoor shower is sublime!
Enjoyed Least:
Not really anything to not like about the property ... the final cleaning fee seemed like "nickel-and-diming". The bed and pillows were not very comfortable but I believe that to be just a different style of mattress.
Surrounding Area:
We loved being able to easily day trip to Siena, Florence, Chianti, etc, and see so much of the Tuscan countryside.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The nearest small towns like Pianella and Gaiole are not particularly exciting nor close enough to walk to. We bought from the bakery in Pianella but otherwise went to restaurants, shops and towns a little further away as part of our daytripping experiences.
Tips or Restaurants:
Most major amenities were provided and Franco generously shared his wonderful garden for tomatoes and herbs. If you have an iPod and want to listen to music, you will need your own docking station and there was not wireless provided, so you can plan for that accordingly ahead of time.
As many others have noted, we had Stefano come to the villa to cook one evening and it was delicious and delightful.
The restaurant suggestions that Franco left us that we tried were all very good.
Jennifer , September
Overall:
The villa was just excellent - great location, so private and quiet, the owner and chef were terrific and available to answer questions. It was so wonderful and we definitely recommend this villa with no hesitations!
Enjoyed Most:
The villa itself was perfect for our different sets of guests. The kitchen is equipped with everything we needed. Of course the pool was a godsend and just lovely. Two great surprises - the outdoor shower, and the sea only about an hour and a half away for something different.
Ronda, July
Overall:
We had such a great time staying at the villa. Exploring the area and experiencing the Tuscan countryside was amazing. The chef Stefano cooked for us one night and then provided a cooking dinner class another night. Both were amazing and we loved the food.
Enjoyed Most:
The fabulous infinity pool and the surrounding gardens with the feel of staying in a 500 year old home.
Enjoyed Least:
There wasn't anything that we disliked. We really enjoyed the remoteness of the villa.
Surrounding Area:
Exploring the vineyards, castles, churches and tiny villages and taking in the magnificent views. Eating all the local fair at many great restaurants.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The nearest small town was Pianella, a very short 5-10 min. drive away.
Tips or Restaurants:
Go to Brolio and visit the restaurant on the way up to the castle then explore the grounds around the castle. Then sample the wines at the wine shop from their vineyards. Excellent!!!
Visit many of the small fascinating villages around the area.
Directions:
No problems finding the villa. It is quite remote but the directions are good. You can use the GPS to find Pianella.
Check In Out:
The owner is superb and will happily show you around his beautiful villa and grounds.
Tara, August
Overall:
Excellent! The ownership is very interested in his guests having a great time while staying at his home.
Enjoyed Most:
It was beautifully landscaped, very well maintained - a wonderful variety of outdoor spaces. A pool, a covered loggia with barbecue and beautiful terrace. It really is a beautiful property!
Enjoyed Least:
It was a beautiful setting, however, we would have liked a hilltop scenic view.
Surrounding Area:
Going to lunch at the restaurant in San Regolo and the little shop next door. They sell truffles, wine and are such delightful people. It's a must for both of these places if you want to experience the people and culture.
Tips or Restaurants:
The house was well stocked with towels and sheets. The sheets were wonderful and plenty of blankets. Everything is of quality. We can't stress enough the experience of a great lunch in San Regolo. This was one of the highlights of our visit. We also highly recommend the chef we hired for two nights during our stay. Stefano came and gave us a cooking lesson which was a wonderful evening! Definitely worth doing.
Check In Out:
We found the final cleaning charge of 140 Euros excessive.
Shelly, October
Overall:
Perfect. This is the best way to see Tuscany. Having a home base lets you relax more between sightseeing trips.
Enjoyed Most:
I liked all the nooks and crannies, indoors and out. it took time to actually see everything. The week was almost up before I noticed the grapes hanging on the arch at the guesthouse. There were pheasants on the barn roof and on the ground, sometimes in the field eating the sunflower seeds.
Enjoyed Least:
It took a little while to get used to the electricity. I think that we all had old versions of the adaptors. I don't remember if the girls ever got their hair driers going. I think so. Giuliano, the gardener, had to help reset the circuit breakers. We got used to making more modest demands on the system at any one time.
Surrounding Area:
The scenery of course. Once Jennifer arrived with her GPS we enjoyed the winding roads, too.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella is the nearest small town, maybe 3 miles distance. We didn't walk, but I might have tried if we had more time. The restaurant at the top of the hill, I think the name is Il Solissimo, was closed. That was definitely within walking distance. There was a beautiful view from up there.
Tips or Restaurants:
We brought some coffee so we were ready the first morning. The house is very well stocked. We went to the COOP in Siena. They even have a gluten-free and health food section. So, anybody with celiac disease or other food requirements would be able to find things they can eat. The gelato shop near the Torre del Mangia, in Siena, had gluten-free cones.
We stopped at a small restaurant in Rapolano, Bar Trattoria Trento, that was surprisingly good. We didn't expect much because we had to walk through the bar full of soccer fans watching the game. There was also a carnival fiesta going on.
Check In Out:
The owner was so nice about waiting for us when we got lost. We didn't check in until after 7:00 PM. If the sun wasn't setting in the west we probably never would have found North Siena. He also speaks English very well.
Mary Jo, September
Overall:
This is an outstanding property and is not adequately promoted. It is 2 1/2 acres of property with wonderful buildings and landscaped grounds. Renters should understand that it is in many ways an isolated location, which provides great privacy.
Enjoyed Most:
The setting and surroundings of the property are very impressive. The massive stone of the structures and the flowers everywhere. The expansive family-style kitchen and spacious bedrooms - we only used two. The bath towels are quite small, and larger ones would be nice.
Enjoyed Least:
One of the bathrooms shower head had no pressure and so the four of us shared a single shower. The absence of a dryer is a problem when the weather is not warm enough or dry enough for drying clothes. It also would be good to have instructions on turning on the heat.
Surrounding Area:
If you are looking for some privacy and quiet this is perfect as there is really nothing around other than stunning views. There was easy access to Siena and the COOP markert for basic household shopping.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The nearest town is Pianella.
Tips or Restaurants:
The property is quite complete and there was nothing that we really needed that was not already there.
Directions:
The local signage is actually quite good. You should also suggest that if guests are coming from Florence they might want to take an indirect route and visit some of the small towns on the way to the property.
Check In Out:
The owners were waiting for us and provided us all of the information we needed.
Michael , June
Enjoyed Most:
The villa and property are exactly as described. Perfect! All utensils, dishes, glasses, linens, CDs, are provided. A perfect setting. You couldn't have asked for more. The owners were there to greet us and give us a tour. They gave us suggestions for restaurants and places to visit. We highly recommend this property. Like being in your own home.
Enjoyed Least:
Can't think of any negatives. One suggestion, however. Since we were there in mid October, it took most of the day to dry the laundry outside. A dryer would have been a nice convenience.
Surrounding Area:
Centrally located. Excellent location for one-day trips to Siena, San Gimignano, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Pienza, Gaiole in Chianti, Greve in Chianti, Radda, Val d' Orcia, Florence, lovely vineyards and castles to visit.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella was about 3 miles, but too far to walk. Siena is about 15-20 minutes away by car. When going to Siena drive to Porta Ovile. When you reach there stay left for a few hundred yards to parking at San Francisco parking lot. Then, it's a short walk back to the escalators that take you up to the town. It's the best way to get to Siena.
Tips or Restaurants:
Be sure to stop and buy some food before you check in. Once settled on Monday you can drive to the COOP where you can buy anything that you need. Though it's not necessary, if you know a little bit of Italian it can be very helpful. The Italian people like it when you try to speak the language. Restaurants Il Ponte in Pianella, Il Carlino d'Oro in San Regolo, Ristorante Bel Soggiorno in San Gimingano, Osteria Le Braci in hills near Radda in Chianti, Ristorante La Grotta near Pienza, Badia Di Coltibuono in mountains near Gaiole, Osteria La Crocina near Montalcino. We highly recommend that you arrange to have Stefano cook for you. He cooked twice for us and everything was delicious. He is a charming fellow. Try to arrange him to do it on your arrival day.
Donald, October
Enjoyed Most:
The grounds and pool were beautiful. The room arrangements were comfortable in that the family of 7 could be close enough or far away enough during the day. Loved the eat-in kitchen, the working appliances, matching dishes, and work tools.
Enjoyed Least:
The master bedroom with its canopy bed was uncomfortable in that the lighting made reading in bed almost impossible even with Suzanne's recommended reading light. The bed overwhelmed the room.
Surrounding Area:
Siena, easy access to the villa, scenery
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianela. Not within walking distance but had good short-term supplies and food.
Philip, June
Overall:
We had a wonderful time. Thanks again!!! The owners are both great and very helpful.
Enjoyed Most:
We had a chef come to our villa one night and cook for us. It was one of the best meals I've ever had and he couldn't have been nicer. Besides private cooking for parties, he also does weddings. Here's his info: Stefano Valacchi - email: stefanovalacchi@virgilio.it.
Enjoyed Least:
Better directions are needed. The other thing, I didn't realize was how winding the streets are in the country side.
Tips or Restaurants:
A huge restaurant find for us was Osteria Enoteca - Sotto le Fonti in Siena. The address is Via Esterna Fontebranada, 118. The owners are a young couple. The husband is from Naples and the wife, Britta is from Germany. Britta speaks German, Italian and English so it was easy to communicate. Also, the food in their restuarant was excellent and their hospitality is superb! Britta is also a tour guide. We ended up taking a wine tour with her which was amazing. She took us to Tenuta Torciano in San Gimignano. The owner is Pierluigi Giachi. He'squite a character! We live near Napa, California. He taught us more about wine tasting in two hours then we've learned in all of our visits to the Napa vineyards.
We also took a tour of Siena through "Tours by Roberto" Our guide was Donatella. She has been living there for 30 years and is funny and knows a lot about history. It is really worth taking her tour.
Nancy , February
Overall:
The owner went out of his way to be helpful to us. He actually drove us back from the car rental in Siena to the railroad station. He spent ample time showing us the house and letting us know what was around
Enjoyed Most:
The property was well maintained, with lots of flowers and landscaping.
It was right in the heart of Chianti.
Enjoyed Least:
I can't think of anything that really bothered us.
Surrounding Area:
The fact that it was so well located. you walked out the drive and you were in the middle of vineyards.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella was 5 minutes away. Small town, but had both shops and restaurants.
Tips or Restaurants:
The Castello Di Brolio is 5 - 10 minutes away and has a great restaurant and winery.
Also there is a place right up the hill from the house with good food and great view.
Gerald, September
Overall:
I do recommend it highly. We reviewed all the comments about the Villa on your web site prior to renting and leaving, "They did not do it justice". The villa and grounds are wonderful. Five stressed out people arrived, and one week later were completely stress-free (that's saying something since, we were driving ourselves on day trips). The villa is perfectly furnished for its style and location (it is very comfortable, clean and well maintained). With the pool, shade, flowers, running creek, wild life, privacy, near by excellent winery and restaurant; "What else could someone want?"
The owner is very proud of his property and its location. They are very nice people and respect their guests and guest privacy.
We really cannot say enough good things about the total experience at the villa - you have to be there to understand.
Enjoyed Most:
The property is perfect.
Enjoyed Least:
No dislikes.
Surrounding Area:
Winery and restaurants.
Tips or Restaurants:
Take lots of food and don't leave the unit - its very restful. The chief (Mattisse) which we used was excellent and very creative. We recommend his services highly.
Check In Out:
Owner very friendly helpful.
Vick, June
Overall:
The grounds are spacious and graciously appointed. Even with two families, there was plenty of privacy and plenty of indoor and outdoor areas to share time all together or in smaller groups.
Enjoyed Most:
The beautiful grounds, the privacy, the integrity of the restoration. We were very fortunate that the beautiful weather during the last two weeks in May, allowed us to fully enjoy the pool and the entire property. We were two families, eight in total sharing the home, and between the 3 large bedrooms, loft, two bathrooms, and the large kitchen, we were all very comfortable.
Enjoyed Least:
We were so happy here, it would be hard to criticize the property.
Surrounding Area:
The villa is surrounded by the most beautiful vineyards and hilly vistas you can imagine. We were able to take daily walks.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella was the nearest town but it was not within walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
If you plan to use the Internet, research nearby towns that provide service.
Directions:
The directions given to us were suitable for travelers arriving in Florence. Directions for travelers arriving from Rome, should be researched and re-written.
Check In Out:
Despite our late arrival, the owner was gracious and accommodating. Our departure was very early and the owner allowed us to check out the evening prior to our departure.
Denise, May
Overall:
The owner was superb. Very attentive and accommodating. He has worked hard to make it easy for his guests. The house is lovely. All the linens are good quality and they take care of them when you depart. He explained everything...from how to use every appliance to driving directions to recommendations on wine, restaurants, whatever we asked. The phone was easy. The house had everything. The gardener came to weed and mow....and was there to fix things as well. Clearly, they take very good care of the property and the guests.
Enjoyed Most:
The property was beautiful. The old stone and terra tiles with the current working glass doors and beautiful shutters on each building was great. The variety of buildings, outside spots to sit, variety of flowers was the best.
Enjoyed Least:
There isn't a place to take a long walk. The road is okay......but you're always listening for cars. This isn't a main road....but still....there aren't paths or walkways.
Surrounding Area:
Absolutely loved driving the roads and taking in the spectacular views of the vineyards and the old farm houses and the olive groves. You are just surrounded by them and feel like you are back in anther time period.
It was my most favorite part of the week.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella is the nearest town. It is not conducive to a walk. And there isn't much there...worth walking to.
Tips or Restaurants:
We ate in the restaurant at the top of the hill...owned and run by the owner of the large vineyard and the castle. FANTASTIC!! We would highly recommend it for a very special dinner.
Check In Out:
Couldn't have been better.
Lisa, April
Enjoyed Most:
The villa was beautiful. It is furnished to perfection with antiques and cozy cottage touches. The owner had wine and fruit awaiting us. We had a medical emergency the first night we were there and the owner was very helpful in having an ambulance dispatched and then visiting the hospital to help us with translation problems.
Enjoyed Least:
There was nothing we didn't like. It could have been atop a hill with a better view but we really can't complain. IT IS PERFECT.
Surrounding Area:
We were able to headquarter at the villa and make day trips to all the sites we had targeted. Very good location.
Tips or Restaurants:
Almost any restaurant you visit will be a memorable event.
Everything we needed was furnished. We visited in mid-October and thought we wouldn't need heating but we found that the thick walls of the villa hold dampness and we had the heating turned on.
Barbara, October
Overall:
The pictures do not do it justice.
Enjoyed Most:
The interior is much bigger than expected, very comfortable with beautiful furniture; kitchen very well equipped, plenty of plates, glasses, etc. We cooked dinner every night but one, so we know. Bedrooms very large and comfortable. The patio on the guest house we used in the evenings for cigars, crossword puzzles, and wine. We really liked the peace and quiet due to its remote location. The grounds are beautiful and the running stream was great to listen to. Thank God they had an iron.
Enjoyed Least:
Small shower - that's Italy. An outside fire pit or chimney would be perfect for the patio.
Surrounding Area:
The quiet and the stream running across the back. We met other travelers and recommended you and the villa to them.
Nearby Events or Locales:
We walked to Monti for lunch, and that took about 45 minutes. Pianella didn't seem to have much, but we were out driving to various hill towns and such, so it was not a factor. Walking for supplies would not be do-able
Tips or Restaurants:
Bring an alarm clock. "La Tavola Rotunda" in Monti was excellent. Buy wines with the DOCG stamp on them regardless of price. We drank some very fine bottles for 8 euros. Good food is the norm, so we ate great food almost everywhere. Nuti in Florence was a good one. Don't bring an alarm clock. You are on vacation.
Check In Out:
The owner could not be sweeter. Please bring a gift for him to offset the rudeness of the other American tourists in the area.
Tom, October
Enjoyed Most:
This is a beautiful property. The home is large and beautifully furnished, the grounds are impeccable, and the location is perfect for touring all of Tuscany, and Chianti in particular.
Enjoyed Least:
It's a bit of a drive to Siena, and even further to Florence or San Gimignano. That didn't bother us much because we enjoyed the driving, but it did take some time to get around.
Surrounding Area:
The beauty of the geography, the great meals, and the wonderful people of the area.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The nearest true town was Pianella. We didn't consider it to be within walking distance, but it could be done.
Tips or Restaurants:
For an adult meal in a beautiful setting with excellent food, we recommend Il Solissimo in Lucignano. We also enjoyed Le Vigne in Radda, which is also a great setting with wonderful food. For a kid friendly place with good food and wonderful service, we enjoyed a restaurant and pizzeria right on the highway at Ponte a Bozzone.
E. Walter, July
Overall:
I have never booked a property online before and was a bit nervous but hopeful.
The villa was everything, and much more than promised, in the Rentvillas descriptions. Franco and Anna are charming, accommodating and so friendly. They obviously take pride in their home, and it made us take pride in it as well. I could live there easily and was so sorry that we didn't stay longer. But there is always next year!
Enjoyed Most:
The overall feel of the villa is so tranquil and comfortable. The villa is beautiful....much more so than the pictures indicated. Driving up to the villa was a most pleasant surprise. The pool is large, has an infinity edge, and is situated in a beautiful spot surrounded by trees and hills. The villa and pool were completely equipped and very clean.
Enjoyed Least:
The fourth bedroom is upstairs - very steep steps. It is a beautiful, large room with a terrace, but it could use a screen door to help cool the room at night.
Surrounding Area:
The surrounding Chianti area is one of the most beautiful places I have been. Every time you turn your head there is yet another astounding vista. It was wonderful to drive around exploring the quaint little towns and speaking to the people we met.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella is the closest town, but Radda is relatively close as well. Neither are within walking distance. Pianella has a nice restaurant called Il Ponte if you want to stay really close to home. Very good food. Radda has a bit more going on, some lovely shops, a nice cafe for lunch.
Tips or Restaurants:
Franco and Anna have really made this property a home, so it is very well equipped. The laundry machines do work very slowly, so it can take quite a while to run a load. There are wonderful places to explore from the house...we had a great time driving around and then coming home to the villa. From Radda, you can follow the signs to Arezzo...great antique hunting, on Sunday when the entire town becomes an Antique Fair. Arezzo also is a center for gold jewelry. Also from Radda, you can follow signs to Firenze and then look for signs to Volpaia....this was a wonderful, small and quaint hill town - no shopping, but just a lovely spot for lunch. Make sure to visit the restaurant Osteria and ask for Vito. Also, the Brolio Castle right near the villa was a lovely place to visit.
I would suggest exploring earlier in the day. The roads are beautiful but windy.
Check In Out:
The owner is a charming man and made us feel very welcome. There are lists in the villa of sights, restaurants,etc. He also provided maps and suggestions.
Roni, June
Overall:
This was a wonderful property to either use as a home base for travels in and about the Tuscan region, or for just relaxing, either by the pool or at one of the outside areas. I found that one 1 week was not enough time to spend at this lovely villa.
Enjoyed Most:
The location out in the middle of vineyards admidst the peace and quiet of the Tuscan region. The old farmhouse was charming and warm, and moderized by the wonderful swimming pool.
Enjoyed Least:
There was nothing to dislike about this property.
Surrounding Area:
The peace and quiet, plus the ability to take a 3-5 mile walk each morning without lots of traffic noises just to enjoy the area.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Pianella was the closest town and somewhere you could walk to. Although we did walk every morning, it was to enjoy the countryside. You definitely need a car for this region.
Tips or Restaurants:
The only restaurant we tried was Il Ponte - a wonderful restaurant with delicious food, wonderful staff and good times. Highly recommended - but don't get there too early - after 8pm is the best time to go.
Directions:
While the directions appreared to be complicated - we went directly there from Florence and had no problems at all.
Check In Out:
The owners were there to greet us when we arrived late on Saturday afternoon. They brought us two bottles of local Chianti wine, water and fruit, and made us feel so welcome in their home. They gave us a tour of the house and surrounding property and offered suggestions about local shops and restaurants. The process took about 30 minutes, which would have been much shorter, but we were in awe of this beautiful propertyand kept asking questions!
Joan, May
Overall:
The owners were very helpful and informative. They made us feel very comfortable in their home. We had a maid two days. I would do it again. We did not hire the private chef, but felt we had one by using the market in town.
Enjoyed Most:
The property is very beautiful. The location was excellent. The property was charming and very comfortable for each one of us. We spent a lot of time in the kitchen which was well equipped. The dining room was enjoyable to use for our evening meals. We had planned to eat out every night, but spent 4 evenings at the villa. The market in Pianella had wonderful prepared dishes.
Enjoyed Least:
I did not hear any negative comments from any of the eight ladies.
Surrounding Area:
Loved the market in Pianella. Monti was a quaint town that we enjoyed visiting The Chianti area has many places to visit for wine tasting. We found two studios, Fernandez and Rampini, that we visitied two times. There are many small towns to visit.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Nearest small town was about 1 km, but it was only residential. The other two towns, which were close, Pianella and Monti, were not within walking distance, but they were an easy drive.
Tips or Restaurants:
We did not find many of the restaurants that were listed at the house until later in our trip. I would suggest locating them in the daytime, as they are difficult to find at night. Don't be timid about going up roads that you are not sure about. We found great places to eat and taste wine by doing this.
Check In Out:
The owner was very gracious!
Jenny, November
Overall:
We had a wonderful time - the owner was gracious and accommodating. A week seemed too short, and we could have spent another week in the area.
Enjoyed Most:
This villa is in a wonderful, peaceful location. We loved that it had been a 15th century mill.
Enjoyed Least:
We liked everything.
Surrounding Area:
We loved shopping for food in the nearby villages - as well as being able to get to Siena and Florence with little problem.
Nearby Events or Locales:
There are no towns within walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
Everything we needed was there - the kitchen and bathrooms were fully supplied and we even had a bowl of fruit and wine waiting for us upon our arrival.
Directions:
The directions were clear and exactly right.
Check In Out:
We had to leave at an odd hour to catch our flight, but the owner accommodated us without hesitation.
Eva, October
Enjoyed Most:
It was our little piece of heaven for one week. After driving and sightseeing all day, to be able to drive down our little country road, turn into the drive and see and feel the peace and serenity was indeed a balm to our senses. Our trip to Tuscany was a bonding time for my two daughters, my daughter-in-law and myself. Because of the peace and privacy, we could not have picked a better place.
Enjoyed Least:
The steep stairs to the fourth bedroom.
Bj, May
Overall:
This property was even better than I had hoped it would be.
Enjoyed Most:
The beautiful and private setting. The house and property were truly gorgeous and peaceful, a wonderful change from the busy towns and cities. When at the property we all felt like we were living at a wonderful home - not just stopping at a hotel or inn. We loved that the property was somewhat out-of-the-way, particularly since we could get to Radda in Chianti, which has great shops and resturants, in 20 minutes. The pheasants and stream running through the property more than made up for the lack of a hilltop view.
Enjoyed Least:
Nothing of any importance. About the only thing missing that might have been nice was if the property was within walking distance of the town - however, I personally would not trade this for the serene and peaceful setting that the house enjoys.
Surrounding Area:
Of course it was incredibly beautiful. But I really liked the fact that it was not very 'developed' for tourists.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Saturday market in Radda in Chianti. Rampini pottery on the road to Radda. Arranging a cooking class/meal at the house with Matisse Chefservice.
Tips or Restaurants:
There is a wonderful market with a butcher in Radda - 'Porciatti'. An incredible resturant in Villa a Sesta, called 'La Bottega del 30' - absolutely do not miss this resturant, but find it in the daylight, because you will never find it at night.
Susan, October
Overall:
The place is beautiful and unique. The old mill core of the house has the weathered stone floor and original bread oven - all the lovely romantic details which we were hoping for. And still the house is perfectly up to date. Well equipped and comfortable in every detail.
Enjoyed Most:
The whole setting. The pool was a perfect al fresco dining area.
Enjoyed Least:
Our only complaint - it was a 10-15 minute drive to everywhere. We had hopes of being able to walk into a small village.
Surrounding Area:
Chianti!! We were in the midst of some perfectly gorgeous scenery. Great vineyards to explore.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Great vinyards to explore. Siena is only 20 minutes - fun place to spend a day.
Tips or Restaurants:
The restaurant at the Castilo de Brolio - fabulous!
We also had a lot of fun cooking in that great kitchen.
Lee, June
Overall:
We loved the Villa. It is in a charming rural setting. There is a great pool. It is clean, well furnished, and everything works. There are a lot of nice little touches. You feel at home there almost immediately. The villa has a lovely patio for eating outside.
Enjoyed Most:
It is hard to pick one thing. Just the overall feeling of a well cared for property.
Surrounding Area:
The Villa is in the heart of Chianti's wine and olive country. Very picturesque.
Nearby Events or Locales:
It is just northeast of Siena with the walled medeival city. There is also a castle up the road aways.
Tips or Restaurants:
Make sure to find the grocey store called the Coop in Siena. Large, modern store with fresh seafood.
The Villa has a lovely patio for eating outside.
John, June
Overall:
The property is a renovated mill - it was more beautiful than represented on the website. Very clean, spacious and the fireplace and pool were a plus. We
could have not been more pleased with the home and especially the owner,
Franco.
Enjoyed Most:
The country setting and the house.
Enjoyed Least:
It was somewhat isolated - but what is an Italian villa supposed to be!
Surrounding Area:
The vineyards and proximity to Siena and other small towns.
November
Overall:
The house was ideal for a relaxing week in Tuscany. Quiet and away from the towns, yet easily accessable.
Enjoyed Most:
Well kept and comfortable. The area surrounding the villa was exactly what you would expect for the Italian countryside, complete with vineyards.
Bruce, October
Enjoyed Most:
The setting was delightful, in a little valley with a bubbling stream. At night, we opened the windows and slept to the sound of the stream, frogs and
crickets. You can't believe the number of stars! To eat in kitchen was delightful! We never bothered to use the dining room. Later in the year, I would assume that the covered barbecue area would be very popular. The place was decorated in a very charming manner. Wonderful use of color! And for those of us who were exploring Tuscany and Umbria - the location was perfect. Don't miss Montipuciano and San Gimignano! The recommendation to use Italia Roadrunners to plan our day trips was very
helpful.
Enjoyed Least:
If the property could have been transported to a hilltop with a view, it would have been perfect.
May
Overall:
My reaction was extremely positive. It was our first experience in renting a house sight unseen for a vacation, and I was a bit apprehensive. However, it exceeded in every way what we had hoped for. The house was as advertised, but the pictures and descriptions did not do its beauty and tranquility justice! The owners of the house were extremely helpful and friendly, and generally a pleasure to see on the occasions when you do. The views were great, being surrounded by grapevines and fields. There are no broad, open vistas immediately from the house, which is fine, since it gives a sense of a great deal of privacy, and truly does not feel "closed in" in any way. Everything we needed was there (which didn't stop us from bringing things we didn't need). It's a very tastefully restored place and it doesn't take long to start thinking of it as "home". It is peaceful and inviting, places with plenty of light and sunshine and shady places to hide in the heat of the day. Great to have so many choices of places to have your meals (e.g., by the pool, in the dining room, in the kitchen, on the patio, on the "roofed" patio....)
Enjoyed Most:
Renting a place thousands of miles from home sight unseen from a company you know nothing about except from the Internet can be a scary prospect. In my case it worked out even better than my fondest hopes, and I will not hesitate to use Rentals In Italy again.
Surrounding Area:
The surrounding area was very quiet, just as I wanted. The nearest stores were about 5-6 km away (though I am a poor judge of distance), and seemed to have enough to get us through, though they were not very large. It hardly seemed to matter, since on our day trips to various locations we were able to pick up things we didn't think were available there. The locals were polite, and, as most Europeans are in American eyes, more reserved than your average American. However, they were extremely helpful when you asked questions.
November
Overall:
The property was wonderful and met our expectations. The entire area was beautiful and finding our way around was easy. Everything was perfect. Good restaurants in Siena.
November