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Customer Reviews
Overall:
Great overall experience. Beautiful villa in a beautiful setting. Very peaceful
Enjoyed Most:
Outdoor dining area, pool, and outdoor sofa seating area
Enjoyed Least:
Road was a little dicey to travel after dark. Ma
Surrounding Area:
Day trips to many conveniently located towns and cities
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme, not really walking distance due to the steep road- dangerous with many blind curves
Tips or Restaurants:
Be sure to visit Montecatini Alto!
Directions:
Some difficulty using GPS to get there
Lee Anne, July
Overall:
Our group cherishes relationships and therefore thoughtfulness, condsideration and a desire to serve are a valuable component of our friendships. Upon meeting Alessandro, Anna, Elisa and Christiano it was apparent that they embraced these values as well. They were very kind and accommodating. If we needed something they were there, otherwise they entrusted to us this very lovely property that they obviously care very much about.
Enjoyed Most:
It is such a lovely property it is difficult to single out one thing! We were treated to some stunning sunsets and I particularly enjoyed early morning coffee out by the pool!
Enjoyed Least:
The drive up and down the hill, until you get used to it, is a bit unsettling.
Surrounding Area:
Monsumono was close and quaint and provided all the services one would need when traveling. Monicantini allowed for easy access to train service as well as the Atostrada. It had a vibrant plaza and plenty of good eateries.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsumano was the closest to the Villa - about a mile and a half away. If one is in excellent health a walk to town and back is conceivable. Otherwise count on using transportation.
Tips or Restaurants:
If you wish to use the pool we would suggest you go earlier in September. If you intend to cook in the villa use the smaller kitchen because that is where the oven is. Also, get a little tutorial on how to use the oven. We did not have a bad meal anywhere in the area. The rotissere chicken at the Monday Market in Monsumano is great!
Directions:
Highly recommend GPS until you are comfortable with street and road signage.
Check In Out:
This process was handled professionally, with good communication and useful information. Absolutly no problem at all. Everything was done in a timely manner.
Mark, September
Overall:
The villa is lovely, the pool and views were fabulous. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. It was especially nice that the owners were there to greet us on arrival and show us the villa.
Enjoyed Most:
The quiet, views, pool area and convenient access to shopping and major roads.
Surrounding Area:
Wonderful Tuscan towns and the sea were within an easy drive so we were able to visit many areas on day trips. Some of us enjoyed many hikes on the mountain.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme but it was not within walking distance. About a ten minute drive down the hill, very convenient.
Tips or Restaurants:
Make sure you bring your own bath soap, shampoos etc. Also, we ran out of toilet paper, paper towels, and trash bags so you may want to stock up when you go to the grocery.
Directions:
We followed the written directions and were fine.
Barbara, July
Overall:
We had a delightful time - the pool was amazing!
Enjoyed Most:
The villa was very spacious and accommodated our two families with plenty of extra space for all. The two kitchens worked very well as we cooked quite often.
Enjoyed Least:
Upon arrival the air conditioning did not work. It was fixed the next day.
Surrounding Area:
The area was fantastic - close to shopping, Florence, Lucca, the mountains. Actually a really perfect spot.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme - you could walk if you like a tough hike! Lots of steep hills.
Tips or Restaurants:
Need to buy or bring shampoo, soap, wash cloths as the bathrooms have no products at all. Or you can buy at the local Conad grocery store. We loved shopping there for our food.
Directions:
We had no problem getting to the property. We were quite worried about the reviews related to the single lane, steep, and windy road to the Villa. We had NO trouble at all with the road and we were in 9 passenger Mercedes vans!
Diane, July
Overall:
We had a great time at Villa Alessandro. The villa worked very well for our group of 16 and we had so many enjoyable times together at the pool, eating together both inside and outside as well as enjoying the surroundings. Really loved this 280-year old place which has a lot of character and Italian soul.
Enjoyed Most:
The garden and pool were awesome.
Enjoyed Least:
We had some difficulties with the outlets where standard 220V european plugs and converters didn't fit the special Italian variant.
Surrounding Area:
We loved hiking to the top of the hill and had a magical walk back from the restaurant at night seeing lots of fireflies... Unforgettable.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Nearest town was Monsummano Terme. We went there almost every day and enjoyed the Monday morning market, Conan supermarket and some great Italian gelato.
Tips or Restaurants:
Italian outlet converters are recommended for plugging in phone chargers, etc. The standard European converters didn't work in many of the 3 prong outlets.
Directions:
It is a quite narrow and windy road to the villa but we found it easy using Google Maps. Hard to find if you don't have the exact address.
Check In Out:
Check in and out was easy.
Erik, June
Overall:
It was as expected for those of us who had been to rural parts of Europe before.
Enjoyed Most:
Views. Space in the villa.
Enjoyed Least:
Some of the living and kitchen space could use upgrading.
Surrounding Area:
Small town, quaint and centrally located to other major tourist areas in its part of Tuscany.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano; not within walking distance.
Directions:
Definately needed a GPS.
Philip, November
Overall:
The property was great. Very spacious and clean.
Enjoyed Most:
Privacy - both inside and out.
Enjoyed Least:
We would have liked to have had more towels.
Surrounding Area:
The small surrounding towns were nice. Great supermarket and easy access to the highway.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsumanno Terme. Not really within walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
La Forresteria is a great restaurant. It is about 1 mile from the villa. Great view of town, especially at night.
Check In Out:
The check in check out process went smoothly.
Janice, October
Overall:
Very beautiful, peaceful, and quiet.
Enjoyed Most:
The large spaces, lovely settings to enjoy the outside, and the views. Nice furnishings, tasteful decor.
Enjoyed Least:
1) The access road (very narrow and very windy);
2) We were told the kitchen fireplace was possible but required specific preparation/permission; 3) Inoperative towel heater racks.
Surrounding Area:
The beautiful countryside, the accessible and lovely small towns.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme and Montecatini Terme. A short drive away.
Tips or Restaurants:
Make sure you understand the garbage instructions (what to recycle, when and where to place all of it). We enjoyed the nearest hilltop restaurant for its views.
Directions:
Directions were OK; we did use GPS.
Check In Out:
It would be helpful to have a booklet of written instructions regarding keys, lights, circuit breakers, and garbage.
Allen, October
Overall:
Very nice and relaxing.
Enjoyed Most:
Living arrangements allowed privacy but it was easy to meet in the common areas with our companions.
Enjoyed Least:
The road up to the villa.
Surrounding Area:
Easy travel to many locations of interest and a short train ride to Florence.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme; it's within walking distance (but it's a long, steep hill).
Tips or Restaurants:
Be prepared to buy toilet paper and paper towels.
Directions:
Used a GPS. No problems.
Michael, June
Overall:
Beautiful property with a stunning view!
Enjoyed Most:
Large dining rooms inside and out.
Enjoyed Least:
The bedroom carpet had an unpleasant odor.
Surrounding Area:
Close to the train station and other villages.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Montecantini--not within walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
Lovely local restaurants in town.
Directions:
GPS-yes. Don't give up when traveling up the final hill!
Nancy, June
Overall:
Very good. It worked well for 14 people to socialize together but yet offered space for everyone.
Enjoyed Most:
The view.
Enjoyed Least:
The road up from the town. Winding, steep, and narrow.
Surrounding Area:
Great location from which to travel to other sites.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano. No, not within walking distance because of the road.
Check In Out:
We used a GPS and it took us right to it.
Michael, June
Overall:
Amazing!
Enjoyed Most:
The Villa sits nearly on top of a hill offering amazing views from the front and back yards! The villa is quite large and offeres plenty of privacy for large groups--and it's beautiful and fully stocked with everything you might need on a vacation!
Enjoyed Least:
Hard to say that we didn't like something about the property--as we had a wonderful time. The recycling was a bit of an issue, but they are working on that. The extra fee for electricity was a surprise--especially because we were very careful to use it sparingly! So, plan accordingly.
Surrounding Area:
The location is perfect for day trips to Lucca, Pisa, Viareggio, Firenze, Pistoia, Barga (our favorite), and many more. We even had guests go to Siena, San Gimignano, Volterra, Greve, and Montepulciano (wine tasting)! The town of Montecatini is very close and has 2 train stations within 1 mile of each other. This made trips to Florence and Pisa and Viarregio very accessible by train. The only piece of info that I would stress is the ride up to the villa. The street is VERY narrow and curves a lot. But we LOVED the location and the view was simply amazing.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme. It was very close, but the hill up to the villa was FAR too steep and narrow/windy for anyone in our group of 15 to even attempt the walk!
Tips or Restaurants:
The villa is fully equipped--just bring yourselves! Whatever you need is available in one of the two food stores located close to the villa (the local supermarket is open until 8:30 on Saturday evening and until 12:30 on Sunday). If you come with a group of couples, it is important to know that not all bedrooms have en suite bathrooms. So, we decided to have folks pick a number in order to assign bedrooms prior to arrival. We had 7 couples and 1 single, so one couple used the living room with queen sofa bed and a bathroom just outside the door. There are very nice linens and towels, including pool towels. We prepared meals as a group -- having 2 kitchens was nice. Note: there is only 1 small oven in the smaller kitchen. there is NO oven in the larger kitchen. It was fine for us, but we picked our menu accordingly. We had their daughter, Elisa, prepare and serve 2 meals which were well worth the price. The food was very good/high quality and the convenience of being served and cleaned up after was so worth it!
Directions:
GPS cut off (as per our other guests), so we used our IPhone Google Maps and that got us there.
Check In Out:
When we finally arrived to the villa after the very twisty and steep hill that we hoped was the right street, we were the first to arrive (at 3 pm), and met with the owners who were very nice and welcoming. They gave us a bag of cookies and a bottle of wine as a house warming. The renter needs to meet with the owners on the last day to walk through the property and check the electric meter to determine how much extra is owed for the electricity costs. In addition, if you hired a chef for a meal, you will need to settle up the amount owed at that time (which the owner emailed to me during the week.)
Bridget, May
Overall:
Amazing and wonderful!
Enjoyed Most:
The outdoors - the view - the peace and serenity
Enjoyed Least:
A little bit of a musty smell in our bedroom.
Surrounding Area:
We traveled all over Tuscany and loved everything!
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme - we couldn't walk there because of the hill
Tips or Restaurants:
We loved a restaurant in the town called Remo's.
Directions:
The GPS was wonderful for us.
Check In Out:
Very smooth.
Gina, May
Overall:
Tuscany was everything that I had expected. It was a wonderful experience that will be treasured for many years to come.
Enjoyed Most:
The view!
Enjoyed Least:
Electrical and drainage problems and the coffee pot! (It took about 20-30 minutes to produce a pot of coffee and we had 11 people!)
Surrounding Area:
Just really being there. The people were all so nice!
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme was the nearest town. We went most mornings for a cappuccino at Tiffany's (New York cafe' chain). We did not feel it was safe to walk down the hill into town because of the blind curves in the road.
Directions:
We had 4 cars--3 with GPS, and we all found the property just fine!
Jane, September
Overall:
We had a great time with our family.
Enjoyed Most:
The views and the pool.
Enjoyed Least:
The hot water heater stopped working; the owner immediately called a plumber and it was repaired by the evening. The owner recommended a quick cleaning/linen change at the end of the first week; we agreed and the cost, 120 Euros, was deducted from the deposit.
Surrounding Area:
The area is beautiful and everywhere we went was great.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano is the nearest town, but it's not walkable. Great scenery.
Tips or Restaurants:
Don't overpack.
Jeanne, August
Overall:
Our experience at Villa Alessandro was every bit as incredible as we could have imagined! What an amazing place for all 3 generations of our family to enjoy together and still like each other at the end of the week.
Enjoyed Most:
We especially loved that each bedroom had its own bathroom--what an extravagance! And the negative edge pool saved us from the unexpected extreme temperatures while we were there. Just perfect.
The billiards table, electric keyboard and piano all contributed to our enjoyment and entertainment, as did the enormous yard with room for kids to run around or adults to quietly read a book.
Enjoyed Least:
We had a couple small issues with the power switches but the owners helped us resolve them quickly. In a 250-year-old villa it's amazing we had no other problems whatsoever.
Surrounding Area:
Being in such picturesque countryside, yet close to both a train station and the motorway, ensured we did not miss a thing.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme was the closest town but I would not recommend trying to walk there. The villa is situated atop a steep hill, with narrow winding roads for only one car at a time to pass. We had fun honking the car horn as we approached each curve, to alert any cars approaching from the other direction. Truly it just added to the experience and uniqueness of our adventure.
Tips or Restaurants:
On arrival day we anticipated being tired and hungry so we treated ourselves to the services of a meal prepared for us by our own chef. Elisa cooked and served the most delicious feast, with ingredients fresher than we've ever tasted, and even set a lovely table for us under the spectacular wisteria-covered patio. Pure heaven. In fact the entire meal was so wonderful that we had her come back later in the week to cook for us again. If you don't take advantage of this opportunity you are missing one of the highlights of your Tuscan vacation.
Directions:
The written directions were spot on. We did have a GPS but it only took us to the town and not all the way to the property, but we had no problems finding it.
Check In Out:
Check in and out both only took moments. Alessandro and Anna made both experiences enjoyable with their warm and welcoming personalities and suggestions.
Carole , July
Overall:
Excellent! The villa exceeded my expectations! There is nothing I would have wanted different, we had a true Tuscany experience!
Enjoyed Most:
Everything...the view, the view, the view...peace and quiet, the rooster, the bathrooms, the owner of the property, the pool area, the cleanliness of the house, the main kitchen, our location to Florence , did I say the view!
Enjoyed Least:
Driving up the hill to get to it!
Surrounding Area:
The train station was close, Montecatini Terme; the highway was close, the view, Monnsumano Alto, hiking around the area, felt safe, so many wonderful cities close enough to spend a day or evening...like Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The closest town was Montecatini Terme...a wonderful town to spend the evening after a day at the pool.
Tips or Restaurants:
Having the owner on the property was the best. She gave us suggestions and the daughter cooked for us one of the evenings, only needed to tell her 2 days in advance. The guidance of RentVillas was excellent. I received notices and a check list, I followed it accordingly and my trip was perfect.
Directions:
You need a GPS.
Vicki, September
Overall:
It was outstanding.
Enjoyed Most:
Having 10 adults in our group increased the noise factor considerably. The layout of the villa is such that there are a number of rooms where one can get away for some quiet time.
Enjoyed Least:
Having to leave after a wonderful two weeks.
Surrounding Area:
Being out in the Tuscan hills but only a short car ride to many wonderful towns and villages. It was very easy to take the train to Florence thereby avoiding the parking hassles.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano was about a 30 minute walk or for the fitness nuts a 20 minute run.
Tips or Restaurants:
Don't over pack. If you forget something you will probably find it at either the Sunday general market on the Monday veggie market both in Monsummao.
The finest Cappuccino in the WORLD can be found at "Bar Tabacci Galligani" in Monsummano.
There are great restaurants everywhere but suggest you try the ones at Monsumanno Alto and Monticatini Alto.
Directions:
There was a detour in Mosumanno which created a bit of a problem but, we understand it is due to end in June.
Yes, GPS was a real asset unfortunately it does not take you right to the villa but close enough.
Ted, May
Overall:
Absolutely had a wonderful time. Everyone in my group was quite impressed with the villa and the surrounding grounds.
Enjoyed Most:
The peacefulness and serenity and the gorgeous views from the property.
Enjoyed Least:
If there was one thing that was a challenge was the very narrow and challenging roads to and from town. But that's all I can think of. But as far as the property I couldn't ask for anything more.
Surrounding Area:
The views were magnificant and we were able to hike down the road a short bit then up the hill, where there is a restaurant, La Foresteria, and take in the spectacular panaramic views of the valley below.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The nearest small town is Monsummano, where we did walk to one day, but it is quite a trek and can be dangerous with cars bounding around blind corners. I would not recommend walking for the faint of heart.
Tips or Restaurants:
You absolutely have to eat at La Foresteria for their fabulous food and absolutely fantastic views. Raniero takes reservations. It's a very short drive from the villa - down the hill a short ways then up a very narrow road to the restaurant. It appears you are lost, as there are very few signs, but keep going. You won't be dissapointed - I promise!
Check In Out:
Check in was quite thorough but I would suggest that individual room breakers be identified and explain their usage. We tripped a few breakers and had a bit of a challenge understanding how to operate them.
Jon , May
Overall:
Great stay. The owners were MORE than accommodating, including two trips into town to help a member of our group.
Enjoyed Most:
Elegant furnishings, terrific location, en suite bathrooms for all.
Enjoyed Least:
Sooooo hard to find!!!
Surrounding Area:
Views, quiet, quiet.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme. Not a walk except for the truly hardy.
Tips or Restaurants:
The restaurant nearby on the top of the next hill has stunning views from the dining patio.
Carl, October
Overall:
Absolutely exceptional. Our stay two weeks previous was spent quietly alone while these two weeks were shared with our family of 17: 9 teenagers and 8 adults. EVERYONE was completely enchanted with the Villa, and loved the pool, kitchen their bedrooms the outdoor meals etc., etc!
Enjoyed Most:
Everything, especially the vistas...the live trees, the hills the flowers, the great location to the highway and the Trains which were so very convenient to Florence, Rome, Pisa, Siena and the small towns in the wine country of Chianti.
Enjoyed Least:
Cannot think of ANYTHING!
Surrounding Area:
The quiet and peacefulness of the entire area.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Montecatini Terme and Alto is a wonderful town with so much to enjoy, great restaurants, shopping history etc! It takes about 10-12 minutes from the Villa by auto.
Tips or Restaurants:
Take advantage of the many wonderful opportunities that are so available in almost anything you want to do. Use the wonderful book that Rent Villas send ahead of time, and simply enjoy!!!!!
Directions:
Use a GPS, it is really helpful, we would suggest you use a Tom Tom GPS, worked quite well.
Check In Out:
The owners are superb and have it all in hand!
Gail, July
Overall:
Glorious.
Enjoyed Most:
The location and the feeling of peace.
Enjoyed Least:
Having to leave.
Surrounding Area:
Loved Montecatini which was near to home and the wonderful
restaurants, village scape, the proximity to the wonderful
Spa the availability to the nearby Autostrad.e
Nearby Events or Locales:
The Villa is in Monsummano but a car is necessary as the
Villa is up the hills which take about 4 minutes from the
Villa by auto...gorgeous.
Tips or Restaurants:
Le Gourmet in Montacatini, as well as the restaurant Le Toro
up the fenicular on Montacatini Alto.
Directions:
Use a GPS! The arival into Piza if renting a car is a bit hectic and allow at least 45 min to catch the transport to the rental office and time to be processed.
Gail, June
Overall:
Delightful!
Enjoyed Most:
Spaciousness of property, beauty of surroundings.
Enjoyed Least:
Directions needed to be amended because of construction on the route. Editor's Note: The construction has been finished, and there is an asphalted road to the owner's driveway.
Surrounding Area:
Beauty everywhere!
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsumanno Terme. A walk there would be long and quite arduous
Tips or Restaurants:
The pots and pans are not in very good shape, so if you like to cook you may be challenged. Otherwise, the villa is well-equipped
Deborah, September
Overall:
We loved the villa. The villa sits on a hill and has breathtaking views. The grounds of the villa are beautiful. It gives you a true feeling of a Tuscany villa and more.
Enjoyed Most:
The outside sitting areas and views.
Enjoyed Least:
Lack of larger sitting areas inside.
Surrounding Area:
The close proximity to Florence, Pisa, and Lucca.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme. It was not within walking distance.
Bob, July
Overall:
We had a wonderful time! The Villa is beautiful, every detail is well attended to, the owners are very gracious and helpful, the dinners we had at the villa were spectacular, the outdoor areas are very inviting and well equipped. With the exception of some noise from dogs, car beeping around the corner, and construction which will soon be finished I think the Villa was an A!
Enjoyed Most:
It's hard to say what we liked most because we loved it all. The furnishings and bathrooms were wonderful and the outdoor areas were beautiful. I think we most liked eating breakfast in the fairytale pergola in the yard, and the kids most liked splashing in the pool and playing various games in the yard.
Enjoyed Least:
I would say that the construction noise, car beeping around the corner, and some dog barking from a neighbor's house were the only problems, but none of it took away from our love of the Villa or our vacation as a whole. Editor's Note: The contruction has ended. August 2008.
Surrounding Area:
The setting on top of the mountain is spectacular, and the town, while not picturesque, has everything that you need including a 'to die for' pastry shop. The location was good for touring Lucca, Pisa, and Florence and the rest of northern Tuscany.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme was the nearest town and was not within walking distance unless you want to hike up and down the mountain.
Tips or Restaurants:
The Pastry shop on the square is a must, and renters should know that making an early morning tour appointment in Florence is difficult because of morning traffic and some construction downtown. Editor's Note: This is a good reason to take a train from a nearby city into Florence, rather than to try to drive and park a car.
Check In Out:
The owners were very welcoming helpful when we arrived, check out was very easy.
Sara, June
Overall:
We had a wonderful time. The owners are delightful and helpful.
Enjoyed Most:
It is spacious and the grounds are beautiful.
Enjoyed Least:
The many levels. Way too many steps and they are uneven and steep. I would not want small children there, and even us older ones had trouble. Also, no instructions on how to use washer, dryer, oven. All directions on the machines are in Italian, of course.
Surrounding Area:
Lots of things to see and do in the general area.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Montecatini Terme was nice and Montecatini Alto lovely. Vinci was also a nice surprise.
Claudia, May
Enjoyed Most:
The ability to sleep so many people. The owners were always available. The views are amazing. The pool is beautiful, but it was too cold to swim. The bathrooms are decorated nicely. Gorgeous furnishings and antiques.
Enjoyed Least:
The noise of the nearby complex of apartments with dogs barking in the middle of the night. Also, this property is located right on the part of a road with a curve in it and the cars honk their horns when they come around the corner. Again, more noise, but not much can be done about that.
Surrounding Area:
Monsummano Terme is a small village but it has enough shops to keep one busy and interested. It has great highway access and is very close to Lucca, Florence, and Pisa.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano Terme. It is only about a mile and a half away but the road down to the town is very steep and twisty the whole way as this property is way up high on a hill-mountain.
Tips or Restaurants:
La Cantina is a good nearby restaurant. The villa makes great meals as well.
Directions:
The directions were good but Italy does not have many street signs so it is very easy to get lost.
Courtney, September
Overall:
I would recommend Villa Alessandro without reservation for a truly wonderful experience and hope to return. I feel that it was a great experience and that we made some good friends with the owners.
Enjoyed Most:
The villa was beautifully furnished with antiques, yet very comfortable to relax in after a day of exploring Tuscan cities and villages, which were easily accessible from the villa's central location. The views were incredible from everywhere on the property, especially from the infinity pool and outdoor dining areas! The villa was extremely well stocked with everything that was needed for a great stay--nothing was overlooked! The owners were very gracious and attentive to all our needs and were not only knowledgeable about the entire Tuscan scene but friendly and a pleasure to be with!
My family and I had a wonderful stay and hope to return to this amazing villa in the future, and I can recommend it in the highest possible terms to anyone who seeks a truly wonderful experience in Tuscany.
Enjoyed Least:
I would be hard pressed to find anything about the experience to dislike.
Surrounding Area:
The villa was so centrally located that touring the many charming Tuscan hill towns, cities and historical sites was easy and very enjoyable. The area has many great restaurants to sample we did not encounter a bad or even mediocre meal while we were there! And of course the wineries were incredible, especially in Montepulciano and Montalcino!
Nearby Events or Locales:
The nearest town was right at the base of the hill that the villa overlooks, Monsumano. It has a number of good small restaurants to choose from as well as several great little markets that are owned by very friendly folks who make you feel right at home immediately!
Unfortunately it is not within easy walking distance, but no more than a 5-10 minute car ride.
Tips or Restaurants:
We found that everything that we needed was supplied and that no detail was overlooked to make our experience a very special one!
One thing to consider is how best to manage your time between touring-which was great! -and time spent enjoying the villa. which was also great!
A day or two just relaxing and soaking up the considerable charms of the villa
is an experience that shouldn't be missed no matter how great the lure of Tuscan
walled cities!
It's a bit of a balancing act that you have to come to grips with, but some time enjoying the villa and the views is a must!
Directions:
Good directions but pay attention because it is a bit tricky. The roads are narrow, so a small car or cars would be helpful-- although we had a van and a small car and it worked out fine.
Check In Out:
Simple, easy. No Problem!
Brian, July
Overall:
We had the best time at the villa. The owners were most helpful, not only on villa matters but also suggesting places to go and things to see, where to dine, etc. They were like our local travel guides.
The villa was beautiful and the view was magnificent. Like I told a friend this weekend, I can't go back this week, but next month is another story!
We will recommend the villa, Rentvillas.com, and YOU to our friends traveling to that part of the world in the future.
Thanks so much for your help. We had a wonderful week.
Enjoyed Most:
The grounds, including the wisteria arbor were great!
The views, from either side of the house down on the town were beautiful.
Enjoyed Least:
There was some construction noise from next door. We heard dogs barking at night.
The last 1/2 mile of the road leading up to the house was in need of repaving. The remainder of the road was narrow. Editor's Note: The construction, which is stopped when clients are renting the villa, was finished August 2008. Next, the road will be repaved.
Surrounding Area:
Tuscany was great.
Tips or Restaurants:
The little pig restaurant was outstanding. Also Monsummano Alto, at the top of the mountain was also very good.
Jim, May
Enjoyed Most:
This property is lovely. It is spotlessly clean and the owners are most attentive to any needs you might have. Construction of a new home for the owners is going on right now, but they managed to keep the noise to a minimum and it was rarely a bother.
Enjoyed Least:
Road to the property is steep, narrow, winding, which makes walking difficult....... That, along with the seemingly unfriendly dogs in the neighborhood.
Surrounding Area:
There is no shortage of beautiful areas to visit from this location. Montecatini Terme is a lovely town..... a good "homebase"
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano ......no walking to town. see above
Check In Out:
The owners were there to meet us and show us around the villa.
Judy, October
Overall:
The owners of the villa are a lovely couple and were very helpful.
Enjoyed Most:
The view and privacy.
Enjoyed Least:
Local dogs that howl during the night.
Surrounding Area:
The village and surrounding towns are beautiful, clean and quaint. Easy access to all areas, locals were very friendly and helpful.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Monsummano. You could walk there if you don't mind walking down a somewhat steep winding road.
Tips or Restaurants:
Bring some music CDs, and perhaps some videos that are compatible with European equipment if you have children.
Directions:
The villa is beautifully decorated and provides you with quality towels, china, glassware ect. Even though the villa is spacious it still gives a cozy feeling and affords everyone privacy. In additional, the bathrooms are wonderful. The owners supplied you with everything one could want. And lastly the view and the pool area are breath taking.
Check In Out:
Both processes were a pleasure.
Connie, September
Overall:
Villa phenomenal, beautiful, pool was amazing, 360 views, fantastic! One day it was 105 in Florence, but very pleasant at the villa because at 4:30 – 5:00 every day a breeze would come up. It was great that the property was fenced, so we could just let the kids play without worrying.
Enjoyed Most:
No surprises when we got there. With the photos on the website, we found it to be exactly as we thought it would be, but better! Fondest memories were eating on the veranda - almost every meal. Had the chef prepare at least 13-15 meals while at the villa, and were some of the best meals while in Italy.
Has beautiful antiques in the house. Wonderful owners. They had us over for dinner our last night there!
Enjoyed Least:
2 km from town, and it is straight uphill, very steep and narrow into town, so it was difficult to walk. Have to have a car.
Surrounding Area:
Centrally located – very easy to get to anywhere we wanted to go in 1 - 1/2 hours. Loved the location, close to Montecatini Terme for an easy train ride into Florence.
Tips or Restaurants:
Rent a small car, because the roads are narrow.
Maury, July