We collect reviews directly from our clients via email and publish them here. We hope you enjoy reading through them as much as we do, they are a paper trail of happy memories!
We also have reviews on UpFront and on our Google page
Reviews
Fienile
“ A Wonderful Property ”
We stayed in this home for 3 weeks and enjoyed every minute. Marco, the owner, met us the first day and provided an incredible briefing, along with detailed written information about the house and the local area (his restaurant recommendations are great). The home was clean and neat, and everything in the home worked and made the stay comfortable. Marco kept in contact to ensure there was nothing we needed or lacking in the home.
Marta, the owner of Marta's Cooking Classes, came to the home twice and prepared spectacular meals that were better than any we enjoyed in the many restaurants we visited. We have been to the Siena area three times before, but this property, and Marco and Marta, permitted us to have a completely different experience. For instance, we walked to San Miniato each morning and enjoyed cappuccinos and pastries in the local coffee cafe, which permitted us to meet the local baristas (an experience we also highly recommend).
We cannot recommend Fienile enough.
Mary & Friends staying in Fienile. Jun 2023
Fienile
“ Beautiful villa in gorgeous surroundings ”
Beautiful villa in gorgeous surroundings. Happy place. Lovely pool, al fresco eating, comfortable beds. Lovely decor, spotlessly clean. Marco, the owner, stopped by a couple of times to say hi. I'd highly recommend. Very close to Siena too. Take a cab, not worth the hassle of finding a parking place.
Sandra Thompson staying in Fienile. Jul 2015
Fienile
“ A very enjoyable two week stay ”
Great location - 20 mins from easy to access car park in Siena (Il Campo). Supermarket on road by from Siena to villa. Villa - Very clean, great use of space, comfortable furniture inside and out. Pool very clean and large. Lots of places to sit. Shade from the Sun if required at all times of the day. Wifi worked well. Villa well equipped. Air conditioning very cheap (25 Euros for two weeks, used every night). Owner was helpful and responsive. We had a very enjoyable two week stay.
Mr. S.J. and family, from the UK staying in Fienile. Sep 2014
Fienile
“ A wonderful home during our two week stay ”
Il Fienile is a wonderful villa! There are six bedrooms (four double and two single) which were clean and comfortable with lots of wardrobe space, extra pillows, blankets and available plug-ins. There are four bathrooms with showers, 2 also have bidets. Hairdryers are provided as well. The kitchen is spacious with a large refrigerator and five burner gas stove with an electric oven. The kitchen is well-stocked with the cookware necessary to create your own gourmet meals. A stained glass window makes the atmosphere even more special. Three complete sets of china and a wide assortment of stemware are available for dining in the dining room or outside under the covered terrace beside the pool. The gardens are splendid and the pool, complete with a diving rock, is clean. There are lots of lights which allow the deck and gardens to be used after sunset. Access to the gardens is easy from one of two garden doors equipped with screens and shutters. The property, although not far from Siena and other villas, is secluded on a hillside from which the views are fabulous. The overall ambience of this stone house furnished with antiques and semi-precious art work is luxurious. The owner lives near by and is available to answer questions and deal expeditiously with any concerns. The available WiFi worked well but downloading was sometimes slow in the evening. Il Fienile was a wonderful home during our two week stay. It is centrally located for easy access to many Tuscan must-see places like Siena, Montepulcino, Castello di Verrazzano, Lucca and San Gimignano. For an extra special treat, contact Emily at a Tuscan Table (www.atuscantable.com). She can prepare a scrumptious meal for you at the villa.
Mrs. L.L. and family, from the USA staying in Fienile. Dec 2010
Fienile
“ Lovely, very comfortable, clean and well-appointed ”
The house is lovely, very comfortable, clean and well-appointed. The pool is clean, close to the house and a good size for proper swimming as well as playing, though would not be suitable for very small children. The whole outdoor area, seating, dining etc is very well arranged. The owner was extremely helpful, and responded quickly when we had a couple of small issues or queries. The age range of the party was from 7 to 74 and all of us loved it.
Mrs. D.W. and family, from the UK staying in Fienile. Feb 2011
Fienile
“ Very relaxed environment, well appointed spacious villa ”
We stayed at Fienile for a week with extended family (including 3 children between 1-3). Very relaxing environment, well appointed, spacious villa with good facilities (internet (which did drop out a bit)) and decent sized bedrooms and bathrooms. The outdoor area was well used and the pools proximity to the house was important to us with little children running around, the pool isn't fenced and we bough a water alarm for our 17 month old daughter in case she fell in. There is a lovely area for eating meals in-between the pool and the house. The location of the villa is excellent with a supermarket (Co-op) about 1.5 kms away and Siena a 15 minute drive. It is also conveniently located for day trips to other places in Tuscany (San Gimignano, Montepulciano, etc). Marco, the owner was very helpful and responsive to any issues or questions we had.
Mrs. C.C. and family, from the UK staying in Fienile. Aug 2012
Fienile
“ The villa is absolutely georgeous ”
This villa is absolutely gorgeous. Ten of us stayed there, ranging in age from 13 years to 59. Plenty of room for all. We didn't spend much time inside because the garden, patio and pool were so beautiful. We ate Italian family style dinners outside in the evening. Adults and kids alike hung out in the pool in until well after dark. The views from this villa are to die for, and the sunsets. We met Marco, the owner a couple of times. He was charming and extremely helpful. Wish I'd booked two weeks instead of one. You can get a taxi into Siena for ten euro, which is better than trying to park there. Can't say enough good things about this comfortable superb property. Loved it!
Mrs. S.T. and family from the USA staying in Fienile. Nov 2015
Fienile
“ Excellent base to explore this part of Italy ”
The property was delightful, beautifully situated in the peaceful hills with amazing views, yet only a very short drive (10 minutes) to Siena. The property was spacious and very well equipped. Wonderful gardens with terraces, a pool and fabulous views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside. The owner, Marco was most welcoming on arrival, showing us all round the property and ensuring us of his assistance should there have been anything we needed while staying. We enjoyed a brilliant evening when a local family came and cooked an amazing Italian feast for us - absolutely delicious! Plenty of beautiful places within easy striking distance. We would certainly recommend the villa as an excellent base to explore this part of Italy.
Mrs. C.A. and family, from the UK staying in Fienile. Feb 2014
Fienile
“ Definitely recommend Fienile to family and friends ”
Fienile had wonderful indoor and outdoor space and was very comfortable for our group of 8. We loved dining outside at night under the canopy next to the pool while sharing our experiences and tasting our newly found Tuscany regional wines. Also, the terrace and garden views were so beautiful and relaxing...we often enjoyed our morning coffee there. The villa kitchen is very well equipped with plenty of glasses, dishes, pots and pans. We enjoy cooking, so we prepared several meals in the kitchen there. Two nights we arranged to have dinner catered...one was a drop-off and the other was an in-house cooking class. We enjoyed a full day private wine tour to Montalcino and another day trip to Antinori Winery. We also spent a few relaxing hours one day at the thermal springs (not sure of name). Of course, Siena itself had so much to offer in the way of shops, restaurants, and beautiful churches and museums. Our favorite restaurant in Siena was Trattoria Papei. On other days, we just drove and discovered small villages with very quaint restaurants for lunch and just enjoyed sitting and "soaking in" the atmosphere. We would definitely recommend Fienile to family and friends and would love to return with our family in a few years. Thanks for your help and information to make this a beautiful and memorable trip.
Mrs D.K. and family, USA staying in Fienile. Feb 2015
Rustico
“ Beautiful Location ”
Rustico is in a stunning location and the views are incredible. Elvira, Katia and the rest of the family were so welcoming and helpful the whole time we were there. The pool is perfectly located and there are plenty of sunbeds to use.
We would definitely return again !!
Jane staying in Rustico. Aug 2022
Rustico
“ We stayed at Rustico the last week of May ...it was HEAVEN!!! ”
We stayed at Agriturismo Elvira - Rustico the last week of May in Casole d'Elsa. It was HEAVEN!!! Elvira was warm and welcoming and took care of us as if we were part of her own family. I stayed there with my husband, friend and toddler and it was a place never to be forgotten by any of us. The grounds are immaculately kept, the apartment (Rustico) was super clean and had everything we needed to enjoy our stay. It was cold but we even used the great swimming pool. My son loved running around the property and we loved sitting out in the sun and having a meal. This is a place that we will be going to for years to come! It is also a fairly short drive from Siena and an hour and a half drive from Florence. I recommend renting a car as it makes it a whole lot easier to see the beauty that surrounds this home. This home exceeded our expectations. Thank you Elvira!
Mrs. S-J and family, USA staying in Rustico. May 2015
Rustico
“ ...really enjoyed our recent stay at Rustico ”
We really enjoyed our recent stay at Rustico. We thought the property was in a beautiful setting with spectacular views. The owners were lovely and very helpful and certainly made us welcome. The pool was one of the highlights of the property and was perfect for our 8 yr old daughter.
The villa was as described on your website apart from the TV was missing and it took 3 days to get this setup to watch. We felt the villa was also missing a few basic supplies, like kitchen roll, oven glove, toilet rolls, soap, which we had to purchase. I think the most useful information that would have been nice to know at the beginning of our vacation was that there was a supermarket less than a mile down the street. There was no mention of this in the folder in the villa or in the information emailed to us. We only found out from the owners towards the end of our visit, after spending almost a whole day driving to the PAM supermarket several miles away. I appreciate this is a much larger supermarket but the local one had a good selection of basic supplies and groceries.
We enjoyed the peaceful location of the villa without being too far from restaurants and the village. We would definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to stay in the Tuscan countryside and is interested in visiting the larger, more touristy towns like Siena and San Gimignano, which are only a short drive away.
We hope these comments are helpful to you and future visitors to Rustico.
Mrs. J.T. and family, USA staying in Rustico. Dec 2014
Rustico
“ Excellent location ”
Excellent location, really nice house, the owners are really helpful and nice.
Mr. C.H. and family, Sweden staying in Rustico. Dec 2011
Rustico
“ Clean property good facilities ”
Clean property, good facilities at both property and local town. Only thing we could pick up on is that the printed directions given from Pisa airport were incorrect for the last couple of miles or so (they erroneously jump to directions from south). Confusion added half hour to journey but figured out eventually. Didn't detract from a great week.
Mr. C.G. and family, UK staying in Rustico.
Cellevista
“ Lovely villa. Beautiful pool and views. ”
Poor communication with lady who welcomed us. No English at all so couldn’t advise on anything like walks etc however it may be part of the authenticity which is fine. A few pieces lacking: Only 1 wineglass, Broken bottle opener.
Once again we had an excellent holiday thank you.
"Thanks Gyles, I'll let Rita know about the glasses and bottle opener! best, Dan
Gyles from UK staying in Cellevista. Sep 2023
Cellevista
“ Excellent location for a relaxing time in southern Tuscany, especially after visiting busy Firenze. ”
We really enjoyed our stay at Cellevista. It was good to relax beside the well maintained pool. Local Property Manager Rita was warm, welcoming and very helpful. Kitchen was v. small - bookers for more than 2 people should be alerted to its limitations: single power outlet, single light, & 5m bench length.
Bernard staying in Cellevista. Jul 2023
Virginia B
“ Fantastic stay ”
We had a fantastic stay - such a beautiful setting and really friendly, helpful people - many thanks!
Mrs. A.B. and family, UK staying in Virginia B. Dec 2015
Casina Moresca
“ Breathtaking ”
The view is absolutely stunning and our time at casina moresca was truly magical. There is a sense of peace there. The house was charming and the beds were comfy. Lots of room, quite spacious for the four of us. The road is an adventure in itself but, by the time our stay was over, we were pros at navigating it. Gina and Tony are lovely and were more than accommodating. They had lots of good tips for us and we took them up on a lot of their suggestions. Renting a boat in San Stefano to visit the bays was one of the highlights. We hope that we can return one day.
Kim staying in Casina Moresca. Aug 2022
Casina Moresca
“ We really enjoyed the peace and nature ”
Wir haben die Ruhe und die Natur sehr genossen.
Carsten & family from Germany staying in Casina Moresca. Aug 2022
Casina Moresca
“ Soggiorno in Paradiso ”
La vista che si gode da questo luogo è assolutamente unica. La casa è comodissima e accogliente. I servizi ottimi. Il giardino è incantevole. I proprietari sono stati gentilissimi e premurosi. Speriamo di tornare ancora.
R.B. and family, Italy staying in Casina Moresca. Jul 2021
Balconata
“ Tranquil and beautiful retreat but a bit remote ”
A lovely spot on a tuscan hillside with beautiful views across the valley, surrounded by olive groves. Perfect retreat for writing your novel, or unwinding in tranquility. A car is essential, as local sleepy village Pian di Sco is a good walk, and that is where you will find the nearest local shops and restaurants. Better shops and more restaurants were 20 minutes away at Figline Valdarno, from where you can also take the train to Florence or Arezzo, saving angst about parking in unfamiliar cities. Major tourist centres were generally an hour's drive away, so this location is probably not a good one if sightseeing in historic town centres is your priority. However, if you are looking for a high quality tranquil place, this is beautiful.
Susan and family staying in Balconata. Oct 2023
Balconata
“ Beautiful Balconata ”
We have enjoyed the most wonderful stay at Balconata. Everything was perfect. Luxury villa, peaceful surroundings, huge pool! From the warmest of welcomes to the beautifully stocked honesty bar, this is a place that provides a quality holiday and a feeling of exclusivity. Thank you Borgo Rinnovato and Invitation to Tuscany.
Shirley & family, UK staying in Balconata. Aug 2023
Balconata
“ A truly lovely place ”
A truly lovely place. Beautifully decorated quite modern interior in a fabulous traditional building. The complex is all stone buildings and lovely plantings. The pool is huge and beautiful with lovely sitting areas and a self service bar!! Good restaurants a short drive away.. also pleasant opportunity to eat in house. We loved the place. you can walk to the village if you find the lovely old path tru the valley with an ancient bridge 😍😍😍
Thomasina and family staying in Balconata. Jun 2023
Artist's Retreat
“ A lovely time at the Artist’s Retreat ”
Excellent location for exploring the area and the nearby town of Ambra which at first sight seems sleepy but boasts good restaurants and bursts into life at the weekend. The property is well looked after, is spacious, well equipped and looks out over the nearby hills. The manager is very helpful and has helped decorate the apartment with very interesting sculptures and paintings! If you get the chance, hire the local cook to cook a meal for you, eating it al fresco was a real treat Thoroughly recommend the Artists retreat.
Neil from UK staying in Artist's Retreat. Sep 2022
Artist's Retreat
“ A fantastic stay in Tuscany ”
We loved to stay at this beautiful house, great location and amazing host. The area is nice and quiet.
Khalid staying in Artist's Retreat. Aug 2022
Artist's Retreat
“ A perfect rural stay ”
We are on a 6 week Italian holiday and booked this beautiful Villa in middle of our trip . Was perfectly timed after a busy few weeks to relax in such a beautiful setting was magic . Loved the personal touches - bottle of wine in fridge, bowl of fresh fruit and fresh flowers . The pool is amazing and the peaceful surroundings are just as I imagined. Can not rate this villa highly enough .
Andrea staying in Artist's Retreat. Aug 2022
Terrazzino
“ Slice of heaven in Tuscany ”
Absolutely wonderful villa. Do not want to leave!!! Francesca is fantastic and here to help in any way she can. Will not be our last trip for sure.
Mark from USA staying in Terrazzino. Sep 2023
Sangiovese
“ ...excellent location in Tuscan countryside ”
Lovely, spacious and interesting accomodation for 4; excellent location in Tuscan countryside (although only good view from inside house from shower room); great access for Siena and Chianti towns; good local restaurant. Beautiful gardens for relaxing, and great pool. Kitchen equipment OK, but would have preferred electric kettle and toaster. Main drawback was patio area; access via very steep outside staircase proved tiring re need to carry food/drinks/glasses/crockery etc for every meal/snack for 2 weeks. Of particular concern, patio area did not, as described in brochure, feel very private. As directly in front of wine tasting room, lots of visitors milling around, and our "private" patio used regularly, mainly by guides/drivers I think, for smoking and telephone conversations. Unfortunately, my husband was unwell during most of our holiday, as a result of which we stayed around the property more than planned, hence more aware of patio issues. He did however enjoy and benefit from sitting reading in lovely garden under umbrella. Many thanks for your help.
Mrs. J.H. and family, UK staying in Sangiovese.