Reviews of Farmhouse in Tuscany with Five Bedrooms and Bathrooms near Cortona
Le Due Sorelle
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Customer Reviews
Overall:
We had a wonderful time. Excellent property.
Enjoyed Most:
Hospitality of the owners.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Don't think we had any complaints. Only negative comments from my group were the water pressure and the size of the washing machine. Very minor issues.
Surrounding Area:
Cortona is an excellent base to visit Tuscany or just as a place to stay.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona was within walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
A rental car is really needed but that's about all.
Directions:
We eventually had a young lady lead us to the villa.
Check In Out:
Very accommodating and hospitable owners.
David, March, 2011
Overall:
It was wonderful in every way. The houses have everything you need and they are both very clean. The owners are exceedingly friendly, and they offer up anything from their garden for your use. It's great to cook dinner and sit back with a glass of wine at the outdoor table, enjoying the view of the Tuscan valley. The dinner that Lapo and his wife prepared for us was very tasty. They made us feel like family.
Enjoyed Most:
The view and the location - within walking distance of Cortona.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Nothing
Surrounding Area:
Cortona is a lovely little Tuscan town. Also loved visiting nearby towns - Montepulciano, Siena, etc.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona was within walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
Shop at the Coop in Camucia before arriving at the property. All of the restaurants in Cortona were great for a meal, or just a cappuccino.
Directions:
We did use a GPS and met the keyholder in Terentola.
Check In Out:
It was quick and easy.
Susan, October, 2010
Overall:
We loved our experience!! It was so much more than we ever imagined it could be!
Enjoyed Most:
So many things! Our hosts, the view, the beauty of the area and Cortona itself!
Unpleasant Surprises:
If there was any complaint at all - and it's certainly not anything anyone can control - are the dogs barking at night. Apparently it is because the wild boars roam at night so it sets the dogs off!
Surrounding Area:
The views of the valley below us were amazing.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona was the nearest town. A beautiful Tuscan hill town located less than a mile from our villa.
Tips or Restaurants:
The villa was very well stocked and we found that many of the items we brought along as suggested by the Rentvillas guide were not necessary.
Directions:
We didn't need a GPS since we arrived in Terontola by train from Rome. There we met the property manager who drove us to our villa.
Check In Out:
The property manager was our contact and was so very helpful in all aspects of our stay. She literally couldn't do enough for us....driving us to our villa, arranging a car rental for the one day we wanted to tour and making sure we were happy in our location. She was wonderful!
Valerie, August, 2010
Overall:
The villa was amazing! The owners greeted us and showed us around to the entire property and then served us homemade wine and cheese. It was a wonderful welcome. The houses themselves were spotlessly clean and has all the amenities you could ever need. The pool was spotless and had umbrellas and chairs and was perfect for spending the day in the sun! The owners cooked us dinner one night which was the highlight of the week. The homemade sausage best I've ever had, pizza, wine, wine, wine, grappa and gelato.
Enjoyed Most:
The farm and being able to pick our own veggies, the owners being there and being so welcoming. The proximity to Cortona - a short walk. The pool and the comfy pool chairs!
Unpleasant Surprises:
It would be nice to have some fans since it got warm at night and the AC is very expensive. Also, maybe put screens on all the windows since it can get buggy!
Surrounding Area:
You could walk into Cortona which is great because driving after some amazing red wine on those streets can get dicey! The view was amazing from the villa and easy to day trip to Siena and Florence, especially.
Tips or Restaurants:
Bring your bug spray
Directions:
We didn't use the GPS because the address couldn't be found in the GPS, but the directions were pretty good. We made one wrong turn before getting into the little town, but it was WAY easier than trying to find the property ourselves the first time.
Check In Out:
We got charged for using the AC at when we "checked out" - even though we had turned it on for only 15 minutes or so. You are charged a weekly rate for AC if you turn it on at all. We would have used it all week if we had known we were going to be paying anyway. Not a huge deal but something for people to keep in mind.
Ellen, August, 2010
Overall:
The pictures of Le Due Sorelle on Rentvillas site are beautiful, but the reality far surpassed them. The kitchens and bathrooms in particular were beyond any expectations. The bedrooms were all charming and perfect for our party of six adults and five children, ages 5-11.
Enjoyed Most:
Hard to say. We loved Lapo and Paola, our host and hostess, who couldn't have been kinder or more welcoming. The property was perfect for the children, who were charmed by Giuseppina, the donkey, and Terradisiena, the horse. We loved having our own kitchen garden, with abundant tomatoes, lettuce, zucchini, and strawberries, and beans from the owners' garden. The swimming pool was a great refuge for children and adults after hot days of touristing.
Unpleasant Surprises:
As others have noted, the walk into town from Le Due Sorelle is steep and gruelling, at least for those of us over 65, though one can drive up the road to a public parking area and walk about 1/2 mile on a flat gravel, tree-lined path into Cortona.
Surrounding Area:
The views from Le Due Sorelle are very beautiful, and the history of the area is interesting. Cortona is well-situated as a base for side-trips. We went for a day in Siena and a day in Florence.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona was the focus of our activities, and it was within steep walking distance. We visited the various tourist sites there, but I think our greatest pleasure came from walking through the many Medieval side streets and alleyways.
Tips or Restaurants:
We had great dinners at La Bucoccia and at La Grotta. I can recommend them both for quality and value. We also had a dinner for two at Cory's, which I think is over-rated. I regret that we didn't eat at any of the tiny, out of the way places mainly used by locals, though with five children in two, that may have been difficult.
Dave, July, 2010
Overall:
They had us at "hello" (as in immediately convinced)! The location is spectacular, the views are breathtaking and the hospitality is above and beyond what you could ever dream.
Enjoyed Most:
The fact that each bedroom had its own washroom was a big plus for the number of people staying. At one point we had six adults and six children including one infant.
Unpleasant Surprises:
My husband and I both had a flare up of our arthritis when we arrived and the stairs posed some problem, but we learned to go down backwards and this helped a great deal.
Surrounding Area:
The archaeological sights in Cortona are many, the town is friendly and welcoming and the view of the surrounding valleys are incredible.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The nearest towns are Cortona and Torreone and both are within walking distance. Each morning we went to Torreone for our morning latte.
Tips or Restaurants:
Actually, the owners provided more than any other facility that we have ever rented such as toilet paper, paper towels, and dish-washing detergent, however, storage is at a minimum and packing light would be advisable.
Check In Out:
I wanted a space to tell you how great our hosts were. They took us to a local Palio smaller than Siena and to a harvest festival where we ate pasta and duck until we were bursting. They are wonderful. They put our grandchildren on the tractor and they all had a turn riding the donkey, I cannot say enough about their hospitality and their wonderful cooking. We felt the whole time we were there, that we not only were with good friends, but close family. Thank you, thank you, thank you for suggesting we go there.
Carrol, July, 2010
Overall:
Very, very good.
Enjoyed Most:
Access to Cortona - but 800 meters, not 500.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Owners were very sweet and we enjoyed their company on several occasions. They worked on the property every day, which means that it would not be OK for romantic getaway.
Surrounding Area:
Easy access for day trips.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona was within walking distance. Once you made it up the hill out of the drive, it was an easy walk - older couples in our group had to drive to the top of the hill
Directions:
We used GPS to get to the property manager's office.
Bill, June, 2010
Overall:
Excellent. Lots of wonderful memories.
Enjoyed Most:
Everything. The views are beautiful. There was plenty of space for everyone. The five bathrooms and two kitchens were a luxury. Cortona was right there so we were never far from cappuccino in the morning or dinner at night.The owners are incredible and I can not thank them enough for their hospitality.
Unpleasant Surprises:
I have rented 7 or 8 villas from RentVillas over the years and I have never left this space blank. There is always something that can stand to be improved, however I am at a complete loss this time. Everything was just wonderful.
Surrounding Area:
This area of Tuscany is very beautiful and this property is so convenient to so many things. Cortona is at your backdoor, Florence is one and a half hours by train and all the beautiful hill towns of Tuscany and Umbria are just a short drive away.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona. We usually drove the short distance to the car park and then walked to town. But you could definitely walk if you wanted to. We just saved our walking for all of the hill towns and Florence etc.
Tips or Restaurants:
Dardano's restaurant in Cortona. Very good traditional Tuscan fare. Very reasonable. The grilled meats are delicious and so was my ravioli with truffle sauce. We all loved the items we selected.
Berry, May, 2010
Overall:
Wonderful four week holiday. Beautiful location, property facilities excellent. Owners of the property were lovely, helpful people. In fact, we felt we were part of their family and they part of ours. The fact that my wife speaks Italian was a tremendous bonus enabling us all to enjoy far better communications. We had twenty additional friends and relatives passing through during our stay, and all were made welcome by the owners and all left having enjoyed a wonderful holiday.
Enjoyed Most:
The view, the nearness to Cortona,the facilities, the meals provided by the owners, the location general hospitality of all concerned.
Unpleasant Surprises:
We were not aware that the air conditioning was an extra 25.00 Euro per day charge - so be aware!
Surrounding Area:
Everything, we do know the area and we are well travelled in Italy.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona is the nearest town and yes it is within walking distance, however it is probably 1500mts and whilst 1000mts is completely flat through an avenue of trees, the first 500mts is up a steep gradient as mentioned in your information pack.
Tips or Restaurants:
Identify the optional air conditioning charge and the final clean costs. There is one family restaurant within close proximity 600mts to the property which is very good and cheap.
Among others Tonino's in the corner of Piazza Garibaldi has the most spectacular terrace and view in the whole area.
Directions:
We were met by your representative and escorted to the property. A route to the meeting location would have been helpful.
Check In Out:
Process made very easy by my wife's ability to communicate with the owners and your representative.
Brian, August, 2009
Overall:
This place was fantastic. I wish you had a category higher than excellent. The owners were outstanding hosts the property beautiful, expertly appointed, and convenient to everything.
Enjoyed Most:
The owners, the layout, the pool, the location.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Nothing
Surrounding Area:
We travelled all around Tuscany. Everything was within a reasonable driving distance, and we thoroughly enjoyed the villages and the people we visited.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona is the nearest and technically within walking distance however, we did not walk.
Tips or Restaurants:
You need to bring nothing but your clothes. This place is extremely well appointed and stocked. Cortona has a number of great restaurants - never had a meal that was less than outstanding!
Directions:
Met our contact in the town of Cortona which is very easy to find. He led us to the property.
Kathleen, July, 2009
Overall:
Our experience at Le Due Sorelle was the best vacation my wife and Ii have ever had. We have been fortunate enough to see some of the world's most beautiful places, but this is the total package. An amazing experience, breathtaking scenery, Cortona (a small hike up the hill) is unique in it's history and friendly people. A must stay for those of you wanting to see Tuscany. We were there with a group of adults for our 7th anniversary, but feel this villa is perfect for children, so we look forward to returning with ours in the near future.
Enjoyed Most:
The owner made our whole experience authentic and memorable. We applaud him and his family for their warm hospitality. They cooked us a wonderful meal, and supplied us with too much wine - as my wife and I danced to Ave Maria! Outstanding was their attention to detail in the beautiful villas. We should also thank them for showing us the surrounding countryside that they are so proud of.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Absolutely nothing.
Surrounding Area:
Walking distance to Cortona (a hike up the hill).
chad, June, 2009
Overall:
It was great, much better than we had expected. The owners were warm and wonderful and couldn't have done more to make us feel at home.
Enjoyed Most:
The location and the owners.
Unpleasant Surprises:
The 4:52am rooster......!
Surrounding Area:
It was very picturesque and there were many interesting places to visit.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona was a very pleasant - a 15-minute walk away. It was a lovely town with some nice shops and good restaurants.
Tips or Restaurants:
We didn't have a bad meal in all of Cortona. The restaurants ranged from comfortable and homey to upscale and gourmet---something for everyone.
The only thing to bring is a washcloth, if you use them.
Check In Out:
The owners were great and couldn't have made the in and out process any easier. It was a breeze!
Knettie, October, 2008
Overall:
This property is spectacular. The houses are impeccable, nicely appointed and exceeded everyone's expectations. The family who owns and runs the property are pure gems and they really enhanced the our overall Tuscan experience.
Enjoyed Most:
The houses are rustic yet have all the modern conveniences. Quality s made in the past decade add to the comfort of the homes, yet held true to the original charm and authentic Tuscan feel. The grounds are well kept and expansive. The homes are located on the edge of a hill overlooking a wonderful valley affording beautiful sunrises and tranquility.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Not much...as noted by others the driveway is quite step but doable. The smaller house had a great spacious common area but lacked space in the double bedroom and both baths were a bit tight but not uncomfortable. If you're a light sleeper the dogs in the valley can bark quite a bit.
Surrounding Area:
Being so close to the town of Cortona was a treat. Easy day trips within about 1 hour to Assisi, Siena, Montepulciano, Pienza, Montalcino, Arezzo and other hill towns in Umbria and Tuscany. The view from the property was precious and expansive. Camucia is very close which has a large supermarket Eurospar and other amenities not found in Cortona.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona..Walkable, yes. Takes about 20 minutes at a fast pace, to 30 minutes at a more leisurely pace to get from the house to the edge of town. After the steep driveway, the house is just at the edge of park public gardens on the south east edge of town off of Piazza Garibaldi near San Domenico.
Tips or Restaurants:
Bring flashlights for walks back from town, it's dark at night.
Take the owners up on dinner one night, it will be the best night of the week.
Trattoria la Grotta in Cortona is very good. Eurospar is the market in Camucia.
When meeting keyholder in Piazza Garibaldi, make sure you are actually in the Piazza not the park next to it.
Directions:
Arrive via Camucia to Piazza Garibaldi. Part of our party arrived from the North East and got stuck on the other side of the park and could not get to the Piazza by car-- the park is chained off to vehicles. Used a GPS.
Steve, October, 2008
Overall:
Everything about the villa and the family was amazing! This is truly a gem! We loved every minute we were there and I cried when we left.
Enjoyed Most:
The farmhouse was decorated beyond our dreams, but still kept the true character of the original farmhouse.
Unpleasant Surprises:
NOTHING.
Surrounding Area:
Cortona is a peaceful, beautiful town and the views from the villa were breathtaking.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona. Yes, you could walk easily into town after walking up a steep hill, it was flat the rest of the way.
Tips or Restaurants:
La Grotta was a great restaurant and Snoopy's for gelato. You really don't need to bring anything unless you can't do without a washcloth and a bar of soap for the showers.
Directions:
Cortona is an easy drive from Arezzo. We took the train into Arezzo and then rented a car. It's about 20-30 minutes away and the countryside is beautiful.
Check In Out:
I called the key holder to let her know I was in town and she called the owner right away and he met us 10 minutes later. It all went very smooth.
Katherine, June, 2008
Overall:
Absolutely wonderful.
Enjoyed Most:
The convenience to the village of Cortona.
Unpleasant Surprises:
I can't think of anything.
Surrounding Area:
The villa location was a perfect spot to come and go on days trips.
Nearby Events or Locales:
You could walk to Cortona.
Tips or Restaurants:
Bring washcloths if you like them. Most eating spots in Cortona were as good as, if not better, than spots outside Cortona.
Check In Out:
The owners were there to meet us, and there to say goodbye.
Donna, June, 2008
Overall:
Beyond expectations. Owner truly makes your visit part of his day to day activities in a good way. The walk into Cortona is not short but it is spectacular and very cool at night.
Enjoyed Most:
Views, pool area, courtyard, new building more then the original building.
Unpleasant Surprises:
There is a considerable hike up to get back to the mail road and the walk into town. Not a deterrent but some physical mobility is required.
Surrounding Area:
Cortona was as expected - great size, good restaurants. Nice people.
Tips or Restaurants:
Go with owners suggestions. Accept any dinner invitation. Take the time to meet the owner's family.
Check In Out:
Once we made contact with owner, there was a great welcome to the property. Same on way out. Very nice people.
Daniel, June, 2008
Overall:
Nothing less than special! We had perfect weather, a perfect town, Cortona, the most perfect setting, and the warmth and generosity of our Italian hosts.
Enjoyed Most:
The breathtaking views from the villa were arguably the most wonderful aspect, followed closely by the cozy accommodations and the nearness of town.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Niente! It was all glorious!
Surrounding Area:
Cortona is very centrally located providing easy access to Florence - 1 hr 40min via train, an hour drive to Siena and-or Asissi, and 35 minutes to beautiful Montepulciano and Montalcino.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona was within easy walking distance and that supported our newly acquired addiction to cafe latte!
Tips or Restaurants:
The washing machine was tiny by American standards so you may want to consider a short trip to the laundromat in neighboring Camuccia. Every restaurant was great to excellent and we never had a bad meal!
Check In Out:
The process was absolutely seamless.
Pat , May, 2008
Overall:
The villa itself is beautiful with modern baths and kitchens. The setting could not have been better with spectacular views of the Tuscan hills, valley and lake. While we enjoyed eating out at the local restaurants, we also enjoyed cooking at villa with some of the herbs and vegetables on the property. We also enjoyed the grapes from the vines and also picking the grapes with the owners during the grape harvest. The owners were wonderful and made us feel at home and like family. It was a real bonus having them around the villa, conversing with them, and enjoying their loving family.
Enjoyed Most:
Everything!
Unpleasant Surprises:
While this was not a challenge for us, the steep, gravel road to the villa could be potentially be difficult for some cars. Also, the steep climb up the hill to the town of Cortona was great exercise for us, but this could pose a problem for those who may like a walk that is less strenuous.
Surrounding Area:
The town of Cortona offers many good restaurants, outdoor cafes, shops, and historical sights. The villa is within easy driving distance or train ride to other Tuscan towns including Siena, Arrezo, San Gimignano, and Lake Trasimeno.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona is a relatively short walk from the villa. After the walk up the hill, the walk through the park is beautiful with spectacular overlooks of the valley.
Tips or Restaurants:
We enjoyed the casual outdoor cafes for lunches and several restaurants for dinner including La Locanda nel Loggiato, Preludio, Osteria del Teatro, and la Bucaccia. If you are looking for artwork, Il Pozzo, The Well, is a great shop whose owner was most helpful.
Check In Out:
The owner and his daughter met us at the property. They were wonderful and most helpful.
Linda, October, 2007
Overall:
You do not have to bring anything, the villa is well stocked, unless you are one who can't live without a washcloth. There are lots of towels, though.
Enjoyed Most:
Everything about this property was terrific. The owners were especially wonderful. They greeted us with a welcome that included homemade wine, cheese, and other homemade specialties. The houses were immaculate. Well equipped.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Not too much. As mentioned in other reviews, the walk into town was a rough 1st half mile, but the rest 1 mile was flat and beautiful. Great exercise workout.
Surrounding Area:
The view, the layout of the villa; the pool is outstanding! The town is lovely, Not too full of tourists and has great restaurants and not overpriced shopping.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Cortona 1 1/2 miles away.
Tips or Restaurants:
All the cafes are great. The Grotto and il Cacciatore are 2 excellent restaurants.
The best gelato is la Dolce Vita, just as you enter the town.
Kathleen, July, 2007
Overall:
We loved everything!
Enjoyed Most:
Along with the beauty of the place was the added bonus of the wonderful owner and his family. They were sooo gracious and helpful and made our stay so much more than we had hoped for. We were treated to a barbecue by the owner, his wife and two daughters one night. It was lots of fun and a great memory for all of us.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Leaving!!!
Surrounding Area:
Our view from the property was spectacular and one couldn't ask for a more charming town than Cortona.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Our walk to town each day most days twice or more, was along a tree-lined path through a beautiful pedestrian only park. The walk was about 800 meters which was just the right distance to work off the calories from the great food and the gelato.
Tips or Restaurants:
The Villa is fully stocked. You do need electrical converters for the plugs so you can recharge camera batteries. There are plenty of towels and a washer if you need to do a load.
We ate several times at Bar 500 for sandwiches and espresso.
We had a fabulous dinner at Osteria Del Teatro. Very good service.
Directions:
We were met at the appointed spot and time. It all went very smoothly.
Check In Out:
Even though I tried to get taxis to take us to the train station in Camucia, the owner insisted on taking us. There were ten of us so it required two cars. His daughter drove the other car and made it so easy for us.
Alan, June, 2007
Overall:
Everything about the property was outstanding.
Enjoyed Most:
The view, the accommodations the hospitality of the family who owns the villa.
Unpleasant Surprises:
The only draw back to the property was the steep hill in and out of the driveway.
But after a couple of times in and out you get use to it. I wouldn't even call it a draw back but If I had to pick something negative that would be it.
Surrounding Area:
It was an excellent location for taking day trips into Florence, Pisa, Siena, Lake Trasimeno, the Chianti Region.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The location was great. Other than the initial hill from the villa to the main road, the walk was easy very pleasant with breath taking views along the way.
Cortona itself is a lovely walled town that has so much to offer: great shopping, restaurants and sites.
Tips or Restaurants:
The villa is well stocked with everything you need. Ample bath and pool towels, kitchen tools, paper products. They have DVD players in both houses, so bring your DVDs if you have kids. Make sure you take Lapo, the owner, up on the BBQ. The food and festive time was one to be remembered.
The Grotto Restaurant in Cortona was excellent, good prices an a large menu with a beautiful atmosphere service.
Patricia, June, 2007
Overall:
The owners and their 2 daughters were amazing. So kind, and funny. They cooked for us one night, a BBQ. Our father also went to Lapo's farm for a visit. Lapo's wine is excellent! They provided a beautiful welcome spread for us on our arrival, as well! By the way, the property has air conditioning! We only used it for sleeping a couple nights.
Enjoyed Most:
The location cannot be beat. Although an initial steep driveway to walk up, once you do that 30 yards, then it is a beautiful and flat walk into Cortona. Lovely! Pool is excellent. We had the chef come in for a meal, and dining outside is excellent. Great location for so many day trips! Lovely views! Tasteful decor.
Unpleasant Surprises:
The mattresses are very firm. If you need to do laundry, the washer is tiny, tiny. This is such a lovely property. Very little to not like.
Surrounding Area:
Views. Cortona is a great town with excellent gelato Snoopys! Proximity for day trips. Cortona also has an impressive museum with a lot of Etruscan artifacts.
Nearby Events or Locales:
There are so many great towns, but one of the closest and most charming that you can go to in the morning and stay for lunch, is on Lake Trasimeno, the town of Castiglione.
Tips or Restaurants:
Best pizza in town is at Fuflun's. Better reserve ahead though. Cafe del Teatro, for great lunches, and fresh pasta. Just pack lightly! If you are doing just a Tuscan holiday, you need absolutely NO dress up clothing. It's so easy and casual. Be comfy, learn a little Italian for fun, and enjoy!!!
Check In Out:
Perfect.
James, June, 2006