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
What our customers have said
Casa del Pastore
“ Warm and friendly house in a spectacular location ”
Those willing to navigate a couple of kilometres on a rocky rural track will be amply rewarded when they get to Casa del Pastore, a well-equipped but relaxed house with absolutely stunning views of Mt Amiata and the Val d'Orcia.
They'll get a warm and friendly welcome from Mike and Baal who look after the house, and can enjoy a stay at the heart of one of the most beautiful and remote regions of southern Tuscany in complete comfort.
The house is well looked-after, with a great pool, decent satellite broadband and loads of space - and a view that catches your breath every time you step out the door. It's a beautiful place.
Stephen and Janice from UK staying in Casa del Pastore. Jul 2022
Casa del Pastore
“ Stunning property! ”
The main feature of this holiday home is its infinity pool with that glorious view. The house has been beautifully renovated and has everything you need. Our boys appreciated the table football! Mike and Baal were charming, friendly and helpful. Their wine store was a welcome addition too. A robust hire car is necessary for the long dirt track.
Rachel and family from UK staying in Casa del Pastore. Jul 2022
Casa del Pastore
“ We had a wonderful time in Casa del Pastore ”
We are already back home and I have to write that we had a wonderful time in Casa del Pastore. Everything was great, Nicolette is a perfect caretaker, very helpful. We were very happy and relaxed so please send many thanks to the owner for sharing such a beautiful property. Thank you very much - we hope we can visit Casa del Pastore again next year.
Mrs. M.T. and family, Poland staying in Casa del Pastore . Dec 2015
Borgo Castello
“ Mr B ”
everything has been absolutely fantastic. nothing could be better xxxxxcxxxxxxxxxxccccxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Bendt & family from Denmark staying in Borgo Castello. Jul 2024
Archimede
“ Wonderful time at Lake Como ”
Just wanted to send you a note to let you know we had a wonderful time the other week at Lake Como! What an amazing location! We didn’t really want to leave the house it was so beautiful there with the view. We did manage however to se some of the beautiful gardens and villas as well as take a tour around the lake by a boat Greta arranged for us. Thank you for all your assistance. We look forward to our return.
Melissa Y and family staying in Archimede.
Archimede
“ Fabulous place for a multi-generational holiday ”
We loved Archimede - we stayed here for two weeks for a big family reunion with grandparents, two siblings' families and grandchildren with ages that varied from 20 to 1 year old. It suited us all perfectly, the house is spacious with really large living areas for us all to eat and chat together, with the airy terrace over the lake and close to the barbecue a popular place for evening meals. The pool and Jacuzzi have stunning views and were very popular for relaxed catch-ups, sitting in the bubbles with a drink.
The surrounding area has some fabulous restaurants as well as plenty of activities for the more energetic in the family. I got a lot of cycling done, and also braved canyoning in Val Bodengo with the younger adults. There were boat trips, relaxing walks and an excursion into the higher alpine valleys by funicular.
A wonderful villa in a great spot, I can highly recommend it.
Dan Wrightson from ITT staying in Archimede. Aug 2016
Virginia A
“ ...cannot recommend the estate more highly ”
I stayed here in April 2011 and cannot recommend the estate more highly. Our accommodation was a wonderful Tuscan experience - with the real feel of old Tuscany with all the modern conveniences (lack of TV being a blessing). The hospitality of the family was very generous and genuine. Francesco, the manager, was extremely helpful and had such a vast knowledge of everything local. He guided many of our adventures through the neighbouring villages and cities - explaining the must sees and dos. The entire complex is so peaceful and the scenery beautiful from almost every window. The facilities were excellent and the weekly dinner a really great way to meet fellow travellers and make new aquaintences - as well as indulging in the local fare, not to mention the beautiful different Italian wines!!!I would recommend Montestigliano to any traveller, but know any fellow Australians will really enjoy the friendliness and genuine Tuscan hospitality and beautifully renovated estate.
Anonymous guests, Australia staying in Virginia B. Dec 2011
Dimora
“ Perfectly located ”
We loved our time in Tuscany, and Villa Dimora was perfectly located with excellent comfort and amenities. The kitchen is large, the beds comfortable, and the property beautiful. We appreciated the hospitality and hope to visit again!
Robert and family from US staying in Dimora. May 2024
Dimora
“ Dimora ”
Our family stayed for a week in June. We particularly liked the large well equipped kitchen and its proximity to the dining table outside. Good range of seating options. Great garden and walks out of the house into woods and vineyards. Ask about extra charges when you book as it’s quite complicated. We asked for a selection of wines from the estate and that worked really well. We like simple rustic Tuscan rural homes with plenty of space around and Dimora certainly met the brief.
John & Melanie from UK staying in Dimora. Jun 2023
Dimora
“ Wonderful and Relaxing! ”
We loved our stay at Dimora. Communication prior to our visit was excellent. Our hosts were wonderful and accommodating and were readily available but gave us a lot of privacy. Dimora is a traditional country house in the beautiful hills of the Chianti region but with the updates to make ones stay very comfortable- including AC. The pool was spectacular. We were close to many of the wonderful places to visit in Tuscany but remote enough to really feel the pleasures of Italian country living. Would highly recommend and would return for another visit!
Emily from US staying in Dimora. Aug 2022
Dimora
“ Perfect for a family holiday ”
The property was exactly as described and proved to be just right for our family holiday with three generations. Contact with the property manager was easy and all our questions answered quickly.
Susan and family staying in Dimora. Jun 2022
Dimora
“ Ruhige wunderschöne Villa mit viel Platz ”
Die Villa hat viele verschiedene Schlafzimmer und Bäder. Die Küche aus groß und bietet alles was benötigt wird. Besonders gefallen haben und die vielen Sitzmöglichkeiten im großen Garten. Der Pool ist groß und sehr sauber. Die ruhige Lage war ein Traum. Die Besitzer waren sehr nett und hilfreich und als Willkommensgeschenk waren Wein, Olivernöl und einige Lebenmittel in der Küche. Es hat uns sehr gut gefallen.
Markus from Germany staying in Dimora. Jun 2022
Dimora
“ Mooie Toscaanse villa ”
Mooie Toscaanse villa met voldoende slaap- en badkamers voorzien van airconditioning wat heerlijk was ivm zeer hoge temperaturen. Heerlijke terrassen om in de vroege ochtendzon van een kop koffie te genieten of de lange mooie avonden. Perfect gelegen om de grote steden zoals Florence en Siena te bezoeken maar ook kleine plaatsjes als Saint'Appiano, Barberino Val d'Elsa, Tavernelle, etc. Zwembad zorgt ook voor veel vertier.
Ruud and family staying in Dimora. Aug 2021
Dimora
“ Beautifully equipped, very spacious and one really feels almost like at home ”
We rented the house for two weeks with two families (3 teenagers and 4 adults). The house is beautifully equipped, very spacious and one really feels almost like at home. There was food and wine waiting for us when we arrived. That was a very nice treat! The pool is absolutely amazing, the bedrooms and bathrooms are well furnished and beautifully decorated, almost like in a hotel. The kitchen is very big, and since we cooked and baked almost everyday, we really enjoyed the bountifully equipped kitchen. In walking distance there is a wonderful Osteria (great food!), and the next supermarket can be reached in 5 minutes by car. The house is located well off of a street, so that it is very peaceful and quiet there. The house is surrounded by beautiful vineyards and olive trees. The garden is huge, there are so many places to sit in the shade for reading and relaxing that we never even used them all. There was a little problem with the pool's electric, but when we reported it, the owner had it fixed by an electrician the same day. Unfortunately the wifi is very poor due to the fact that the house is so far out in the country. It is sufficient for sending a text message or an email with attachments, but don't expect to stream anything. Since my husband and I had a work video conference, we talked to the owner about it and he gladly offered help by letting us use his work office in Barberino for the conference. That was very thoughtful, thank you, Guido! Communication with the owner was easy and delightful. We really loved our stay there and would love to come back again!
V.K. and family, from Germany staying in Dimora. Aug 2021
Dimora
“ Another wonderful week ”
Caro Guido, another wonderful week in Dimora, our second year. We will definitely be back next year and the next and the next!
A.W. from UK staying in Dimora. Aug 2020
Dimora
“ Fantastic as usual ”
Thank you for your hospitality and kindness that made our stay fantastic as usual. The home-cooking by Pieranna adds a touch that you cannot find anywhere else in Tuscany. The Chianti region is beautiful also in autumn.
Anon staying in Dimora. Aug 2020
Dimora
“ Another wonderful week in Dimora ”
Caro Guido, another wonderful week in Dimora, our second year. We will definitely be back next year and the next and the next!
A.W. UK staying in Dimora. Feb 2020
Vallevista
“ One of the best Locations ”
Having visited Tuscany for many years now Vallevista is by far the best located for my preference. Not overlooked at all and with stunning views. Tredozio is the local village which has everything you need, with very friendly people - look out for the Feste in August too!
Justin & family, UK staying in Vallevista. Aug 2023
Vallevista
“ Perfectly cooked, seasoned Tuscan Joy ”
Vallevista provides a luxury, discreet and quiet home from home experience, nestled among sunflowers, European Oak and Italian Cypress trees. We found the views stunning, night skies wonderful, pool always kept clean and a perfect size for a family of five. Able to charge our car overnight. Maria Teresa, the owner of the estate, always on hand to help. A perfect holiday in a great location with everything on doorstep - even Venice for a day trip. A very special find.
Ben and family staying in Vallevista. Jul 2022
Villa San Miniato
“ An amazing experience ”
We booked our trip to Tuscany though Invitation to Tuscany. This was our 2nd time going through them and once again we were very pleased with their excellent communication, suggestions for activities (the cooking class was SO much fun for all), help with getting rental cars, etc.
We stayed at the Villa San Miniato from August 10th to the 17th. It was an amazing experience for our family of 19! Francesco, the host, met us later than we'd hoped on Saturday night, due to our car problems. He was so gracious to be there just past 10 pm. He gladly showed us around, made suggestions about places, and let us know he'd be there every day if we needed anything.
The Villa was just what we needed, plenty of space (4 separate spacious apartments), that worked well for us, our kids and 11 grandkids. The location was just what we'd hoped for, centrally close to the cities we wanted to see. The pool was a big hit with all. After a day of sightseeing, it was so nice to unwind there with it's lovely views of the town in the background. Francesco came twice with lots of fresh vegetables from his father's garden.
Our last night there we had a catered meal put on by Francesco and his family, celebrating our trip and a birthday. It was a great way to end a wonderful week! We'd highly recommend Villa San Miniato to anyone planning time in Tuscany, and Invitation to Tuscany for planning, you will NOT be disappointed!
The Hay Loft
“ Dan's visit ”
I visited this little wine estate in May 2021 so we have no reviews yet - these are my impressions. As always, my main focus on a first visit is on the owners and the caretakers - they will be the people looking after you when you visit so much rests on their shoulders. I met both caretakers and the owner, they couldn't have been more charming so I'm confident you'll be well looked after here. The estate has 8 apartments, we have listed three to start with, our favourites. This one, the "Hay Loft" has these fabulous large windows so I thought it would be a great addition.
The buildings are surrounded by vineyards that are run by the little estate, producing their own wine. THe swimming pool is set higher up the hill than the buildings so you get great views across the Arno valley towards the Chianti hills. You can walk - or drive - down to the local train station and get into the centre of Florence in under 30 minutes, which is a lovely way to explore the city and then come back to your pool and spacious apartment.
Dan Wrightson staying in The Wine Lover. May 2021
Scaparzi
“ A wonderful Tuscan fortnight! - again! ”
With 14 people staying at this property ( taking all 8 double rooms) we have had a fabulous time with plenty of room for all. Extremely relaxing and convenient location ( our second time renting this property). We had a dinner party for 16 people which worked so well in the huge dining room. We have enjoyed wonderful breakfasts prepared by extremely hard working , cheerful ladies who also cleaned the rooms on a daily basis. We certainly have no complaints about anything . Wonderful holiday - molto grazie!
Claudine & John from UK staying in Scaparzi. Aug 2022
Scaparzi
“ The property was amazing ”
Hello Dan, I have been meaning to drop you a line to thank you so much for donating this to Battersea. I had the most wonderful time. We all thought the property was amazing (the views were spectacular) and loved the impressive driveway. Everything was well appointed (particularly the bathrooms). We loved the outdoor living, and used the pizza oven twice (and were very pleased with the results!)
A.B from UK staying in Scaparzi. Sep 2019
Modernista
“ I cannot recommend it enough ”
Let me start by saying that I have had the pleasure of staying in many villas throughout Italy. I have to say my stay at Modernista was joyous the property was better than I anticipated. The rooms were airy and modern and the pool was a great resource. The location in the small town of Peregine Valdarno was perfect enabling us to walk into the town for basic shopping and the bar in the evening and the restaurant. Yet it was only a short drive away from Florence and Siena. Our hosts were attentive and helpful and in no way intrusive. The whole region is wonderful and for me Certona was an unexpected bonus as was Civitella. Modernista helped me connect with Italians and the Italian ways in a way I have not been able to from other tourist type villas. I cannot recommend it enough.
Mr. T.M. with family and friends, UK staying in Modernista. Feb 2015
Rustico
“ I can''t understand why it has taken us 17 years to return here. ”
My wife and I stayed here 17 years ago and loved it. We have now returned with our son and daughter in law and it is just as wonderful as it was then. The pool and its vineyard location are stunning and the welcome from Katia and the family made us feel at home and relaxed. Casole d'Elsa is a beautiful Tuscan village. There are a few more bars, restaurants and shops than there were 17 years ago which have added to its attractiveness without spoiling its character. I can't understand why it has taken us 17 years to come back to this beautiful place. The Rustico apartment comprises two large bedrooms and a large kitchen, all with original brick vaulted ceilings. The pool, garden, barbecue and views are fantastic. We would recommend it to anyone.
Joseph and family from UK staying in Rustico. Jun 2024
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
“ Remote and lovely ”
A quiet and remote location, this was a lovely villa to explore the surrounding countryside from. Room sizes were good, kitchen and bathroom are compact but fine. We had a very warm welcome from Rita who was very helpful . We have stayed in other villas where the local taxes and cleaning are included in the price whereas we had to leave 70 euros for this. I think it helps to have everything in the price. It didn't take away from our enjoying our stay.
Mr D.C, UK staying in Cellevista. Sep 2024
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
Villa Chiara
“ Modern family villa ”
We had a great family holiday, with a wide range of ages in our group, from two babies to grandparents, plenty of space for everyone. The villa has 5 good sized en suite bedrooms and the large pool was enjoyed by the children and adults. We also appreciated being able to walk to local restaurants.
Barbara and family staying in Villa Chiara. Aug 2024
Villa Chiara
“ Agency visit ”
This is a review from my agency visit to the villa - not a client review. I visited the house in Feb 2023 and was struck by how well-appointed the villa is; it's remarkable to see a house with a full private spa, gym, sauna, Turkish bath, heated recliners and a large Jacuzzi. The hedges around the fenced garden make the house feel very private while still giving beautiful views of the surrounding hills from the gazebos that are close to the pool and outside the living room. I know the area well through walking and climbing close by (there's a sport climbing quarry close by) and it's a great spot to be based in to explore Tuscany.
Dan Wrightson staying in Villa Chiara. Feb 2023
San Michele
“ Perfect surroundings for 3 generations ”
We were relocated from another property that did not function so had no previous experience or knowledge of San Michele. We were all very impressed with the property and it suited our needs perfectly: Lots of space inside and outside, animals the kids could watch, a wonderful pool and a very nice owner ready to guide and help us.
Jens & family from Denmark staying in San Michele. May 2023
San Michele
“ Absolutely amazing ”
San Michele was absolutely amazing, the grounds were incredible and so well kept, pool area superb, hosts so helpful and two delicious meals with them and vegetables from their veggie patch. Plus a tour of their wine cellar, quite something else. The layout of the villa suited us all so well, plenty of room to have our own space! The 18 month old loved going to see the animals in the morning and evening. Great value for money.
C.W. and family staying in San Michele. Feb 2018
San Michele
“ We were very happy and satisfied with our stay ”
We were very happy and satisfied with our stay at San Michele. The beauty of the place and friendly welcome from Patricia made us feel so at home. We enjoyed Arezzo, shopping in Pam and some restaurants in town. We found an interesting steakhouse called Mama Mia! No pizza for kids but there's 🍝. A shopping center with Decathlon and Coop grocery store had nice selection of food and drinks. An outlet 29 km direction Sienna had good selection of brand in clothings, shoes and more.
A.T. and family staying in San Michele. Mar 2017
San Michele
“ We had a wonderful time at San Michele! ”
We had a wonderful time at San Michele! The property itself is wonderful. We enjoyed the building itself which worked very well for our extended-family group. We loved walking the gardens and visiting the animals and our hosts were terrific. It was also great that the train in Arezzo was so convenient for day trips. Even though we had a rental car, sometimes the train was easier than dealing with parking at our destination. Things we loved the most: Cooking class offered by Patrizia and Pietro – this was so much fun! We all loved the experience and the wonderful food! Trip to Florence by train Two great restaurants in Arezzo: Pappa e Cena (Via Romana, 133, 52100 Arezzo AR, Italy) and Osteria Dei Mercanti (Via di Ser Petraccolo, 52100 Arezzo AR, Italy)
The one tip we have, at least for American guests is to rent a car with automatic transmission. The road up the hill is steep and narrow in places and we were glad to have an automatic, even though we know how to drive a manual transmission.
H. F. and family staying in San Michele. Feb 2017
San Michele
“ This is a house made to be enjoyed ”
I visited San Michele at the end of a long day's driving; I had been out seeing a lot of houses around Tuscany and was tired. The welcome that Patrizia and Pietro gave me, coupled with one of the best views I have ever seen and a swimming pool perfectly placed to take advantage of it soon gave me my energy back. This is a building on a site redolent with history, lovingly nursed back to life after decades of being hidden under brambles - ask P & P to show you the photographs of what the site looked like when they bought it! This is a house made to be enjoyed - there are myriad delights down in the plains toward Arezzo and in the hills beyond, but this is a place where I would want to just lie by the pool, relax and soak in the astounding view, day after day. A favourite!
D.W. staying in San Michele. Sep 2016
San Michele
“ The villa was everything it should be ”
We stayed at San Michele in Arezzo in Autumn and just had a fabulous time. The villa was everything it should be. The rooms were large, the views were fantastic and our host and hostess were incredibly helpful and welcoming. There were two washing machines and drying racks. The pool was fantastic. Our hosts, Patrizia and Pietro did a wonderful homemade pizza dinner for us, another fabulous dinner in their cantina and also invited us to a private party in their home. The linens were changed weekly including our comforter. Softer and or extra pillows would be nice. The villa was at the top of a small mountain and overlooked the entire town. The directions to the villa on our GPS were great. It is narrow in places but we drove a large van that held seven and it is doable. There is also an electric gate to go through so you could not possibly feel safer. The air conditioning worked as well as american a/c but we didn't need it except for the first few days. We slept with the windows open and it was heavenly. Windows were screened, but we did not notice any flies or mosquitos while there. There is an absolutely amazing bakery not far from the villa called Panificio Pandemonio in Arezzo. Their almond biscotti, raisin coffeecake, and breads are unbeatable - Don't miss it. There is also a fabulous grocery store, Ipercoop, that matches any from the U.S. Go to the deli meat section and splurge. All those wonderful meats and cheeses are half the price you'd pay back home.
Ms. D.P. and family, USA staying in San Michele. Dec 2009
San Michele
“ We had a fantastic stay at San Michele ”
We had a fantastic stay at San Michele. It was a really special place and Patrizia and Pedro fantastic hosts! To be honest, we didn't venture far as it was so lovely there. Would happily recommend it to people and hope to return!
Mrs. R.T. and family, UK staying in San Michele. Feb 2016
San Michele
“ ...we loved staying at San Michele and know you will too! ”
Wow! On our recent visit we were amazed by the villa's setting, its breathtaking views, and the pool which shone like a gem in the night sky. We were impressed by the quality of the interior, especially its lovely linens and chic bathrooms. The pergola was a favourite spot where we enjoyed breakfasting and a fun pizza evening; we even ate some bits from the lovely vegetable garden as guests are invited to do. Patrizia and Pietro were perfect hosts at an incredible dinner in their wonderful home with a view you must see to believe - we loved staying at San Michele and know you will too!
L & L. staying in San Michele. Nov 2014