Rondine 4

“ We really enjoyed our stay at La Rondine ”

We really enjoyed our stay at La Rondine and will be recommending it to others. It was larger and better equipped than we expected and the village was charming, and everything you could hope for in a Tuscan village. We relied on the excellent dining recommendations provided, but also ate in a lot so have nothing much to add there. There is a lot to do within an easy day’s drive so a week is hardly enough time to fully appreciate the area.

The only constructive criticism I have is very minor but may be of some use. The property manager did not seem to be aware of our arrival and was out of town when we phoned an hour before arrival in accordance with the instructions. As a result there was a bit of a rush around by him over the phone to get the place prepared for us. It also smelt a bit damp on our arrival and from time to time afterwards – but not a big problem. The property manager was also away when we left so we just had to leave the key in the letterbox. This was no problem for us but may have been if someone was coming in after us.

Overall an excellent experience.

“ 2 glorious Fall weeks in La Rondine ”

We spent 2 glorious Fall weeks in La Rondine and enjoyed it greatly. The apartment is perfectly located in the town’s center, right next to the town wall. The master bedroom was big and nicely decorated, with a lovely view out onto the garden; the kitchen was roomy and as advertised. The best part was the garden and patio, complete with an olive tree et al, looking out onto the town wall and church. We had leisurely breakfasts every day on the patio. The locale is quiet.If you are looking to experience Italy and the “real” Europe and escape the stress of the tourist cities like Siena, Rome, Florence and Venice, you couldn’t do better than Casole d’ Elsa. The town isn’t in any of the tourist books but should be. We’ve tired of the big cities of Europe, which are completely over-run with tourists; Casole is the antidote. It’s what Cortona was in “Under the Tuscan Sun” before Frances Mayes alerted the world into its existence. Casole is perched on a hill 420 meters above sea level with fantastic views in all directions. Very laidback and friendly town, like living in the 1950s. 2 small grocery stores, 2 butcher shops, 1 medium size grocery store, 3 bakeries and several restaurants and bars. Plus an art school, which had the effect of sprinkling works of art throughout the town. A very convenient place, which keeps the ”old world” charm of a small town.The best way experience the town is just before sunset, when people sit on their door steps and congregate in the narrow streets. Fridays after 4pm are special with the children playing in the main square. Casole is the real Europe and La Rondine is the ideal way to experience it.

“ The apartment is lovely, typically Tuscan ”

The apartment is lovely, typically Tuscan and with all amenities. The master bedroom is very comfortable, a pleasure to sleep in. The kitchen is just great and has everything one would need. The garden was just emerging in Spring but was lovely though a bit too cool to spend evening in. Casole d'Elsa is a joy of architecture, humanity, and history. While we were there, there was a wonderful concert in the main church, many art exhibits, and the museum is terrific. Every restaurant in and around the village is friendly and has food ranging from great to excellent. Driving to the seaside, to Siena, to Pisa and to the many castles, fortresses, wineries, towns is very easy and there is a nearby train to Florence, if one wishes to tackle that. There is so much history: from Etruscan through 20th century to be seen and the terrain is very beautiful. We saw Spring emerge and followed fruit trees blooming, fields being plowed and the snow melt from the mountains in view. I felt that we could have spent months, even years, in what felt immediately like our home.

“ Mr. M.H. and family, UK ”

The village where the apt. is located is lovely and interesting. The art school and the cultural atmosphere add to its attractiveness. We enjoyed breakfasting in the garden, the kitchen and the bathroom were fully-equipped -- nothing was lacking. The double bed was comfortable also for people who need good support, the lovely linens made it a pleasure to look at and be in. Restaurants and parking are close by.

“ lovely, comfortable, 2 bedroom home. ”

I and my family (2 teenaged girls) spent 5 days in the lovely, comfortable, 2 bedroom home, with modern amenities and with its own garden with views. It is situated within the village walls and the village shops and restaurants are 4 mins walk away and have everything you need. Parking was no problem, either. Also, its a perfect location from which to visit all the sights and treasures of Tuscany.