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Customer Reviews

Overall:
We had a wonderful two weeks in Tuscany, not only "seeing the sites," but also entering into -- if only for a brief time -- the life of a small town and sharing our experiences with the friends we invited to join us. Our high expectations were surpassed.
Enjoyed Most:
Casa del Saraceno is stone farmhouse high on a ridge facing east, with ever-changing (Tuscan weather) views extending to Umbria, the Marches, and Emilia Romagna, and overlooking a valley of mixed woods, grape fields and olive orchards. According to locals, Casa del Saraceno is the newest house in the village, as it dates only from the latter part of the 12th century. It is thoughtfully restored and beautifully appointed -- very attractive, comfortable, and efficient. The layout is such as to accommodate at least three couples with considerable privacy, or a very large family. I should also mention the excellent local information provided with the house from Rentvillas, from the property's owners and from Giuseppe Dini, the caretaker, and from the information about the area gathered by previous guests and placed in the "Green Binder." Because of this wealth of local intelligence, and because the house is fully equipped, it takes no time at all to "get your feet on the ground."
Enjoyed Least:
Nothing to dislike as it was perfect for us. However, a first-time visitor who wants in a short time to pack in all the highlights (Siena, Cortona, the Uffizi, Pisa, etc) might want to find a more central location. Road trips are great fun (don't miss Gubbio), but speed in getting from place to place isn't part of the fun.
Surrounding Area:
Anghiari, a ten-minute drive from the house, is a wonderful town well off the beaten track of tourism, but loaded with civilized amenities, including at least three first-rate restaurants set in a walled town not very much changed from the time of the Battle of Anghiari -- the village's chief claim to historical fame. Setting aside the fine local museums, the art, and the sheer beauty of the countryside, there are numerous wonderful things to see and do. There is a local linen factory which produces exquisite work, an olive press which offers tastings, and of course, a goat farm. There are also ample small roads and trails for exploring the area on foot.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Toppole is a gem within walking distance but has no stores. The nearest restaurant, in the country at the base of the road, is perhaps 3 kilometers away and in October not always open. For groceries and restaurants, one must go to Anghiari, a 10-minute drive down the mountain.
Tips or Restaurants:
1. Don't miss olive oil tasting at Ravagni, a mill in business since 1421. 2. For the bold, the fourteen-course Sunday exploration of Tuscan cuisine at the Buca d'Michelangelo in Caprese Michelangelo, is a must. 3. Explore Anghiari's restaurants. We especially enjoyed returning to La Nena, Da Alighiero, and La Cantina della Duchessa.
Directions:
We needed to meet Mr. Dini to pick up the key, which proved to be a bit of a problem because we initially had difficulties with our phone. We had several guests during the course of our stay, and none had difficulty in finding the house based upon the directions provided. A GPS is not necessary.

Carol, October, 2012

Overall:
It was fabulous! The villa was very comfortable, clean, and well equipped. The beds were comfortable, with great linens and towels. The kitchen was easy to work in and had all that is needed (pots, pans, etc). There are 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, one of which is on the main level. The terrace was a wonderful place to read, eat and visit. The pool was stunning with the most amazing views. We would certainly go back. You definitely need a car to get back and forth to Anghiari (closest town) for supplies and such. Guiseppe, the owner, was very sweet, helpful, and responsive. He met us in town and we followed him to the villa, about 4 miles out of town. No Internet at the villa, but that was just fine. There is a WiFi cafe in town.
Enjoyed Least:
No WiFi but this was not a big deal.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari--needed to drive.

Kate - Tvl Agt, September, 2012

Overall:
Excellent.
Enjoyed Most:
Renovations were very well done.
Enjoyed Least:
Door to the twin bed bedroom would not close.
Surrounding Area:
Town and people were wonderful.

Geri, September, 2012

Overall:
We travelled with 3 adults and three kids aged, 11, 11 and 14. All of us will have wonderful memories.
Enjoyed Most:
Very clean and tastefully decorated with well sized rooms, excellent bathrooms, and a good kitchen. The pool overlooks the spectacular valley. Warm, generous property manger. Thank you, Guiseppe.
Enjoyed Least:
The drive up the one-lane gravel road to the villa. The area surrounding the pool needs attention.
Surrounding Area:
Scenery and views are beautiful.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari. Not walkable.
Tips or Restaurants:
Do visit Anghiari for eating, shopping and walking. It is unspoiled and beautifully maintained. We picked the villa for its easy access to Florence, Rome, Pisa and Siena, but be aware that whilst the distance to these areas seems small, it takes a while. Double the expected travel time with a car. There was coffee, sugar, oil and spices in the kitchen, but try to buy bread, milk, etc. on your way, as you will not want to make multiple trips up and down the hill.
Directions:
Guiseppe was our patient guide to the property after AVIS gave us a GPS without any maps!

Amanda, August, 2012

Overall:
Our week in the villa was without a doubt the highlight of our two-week trip to Italy. It took our breath away when we arrived to see how beautiful it was in every way.
Enjoyed Most:
We enjoyed using all the rooms of the house, and all the outdoor amenities including the swimming pool, shaded outdoor dining area, BBQ grill, etc. If I had to choose one thing, I would say the large, well-designed, well-furnished kitchen was a pleasure to cook and dine in.
Enjoyed Least:
The only feature I could consider a "downside" would be the winding narrow roads comprising the 15-minute drive to town for shopping, etc. But the privacy and silence at night with no sound of traffic etc. really made it worth it.
Surrounding Area:
Anghiari is a beautiful Tuscan hill town with some lovely restaurants, beautiful views, Internet access if you want it at the central coffee shop on the square, a fantastic local market one day a week, and a very serviceable grocery store. We visited Anghiari several times and found it quite convenient. We also took 2 day trips, one to Florence and one to the Chianti region that were both very enjoyable.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari - not walking distance. About a 15 minute drive, see comments in 12 above.
Tips or Restaurants:
This villa is extremely well-furnished and equipped. Even the kitchen is well-stocked with basics like salt, pepper, oil vinegar, dish soap, etc. It is worth doing a major grocery shop at a large supermarket in Arezzo, 45-minutes drive away. I recommend the restaurant at the Coltibuono vineyard on the outskirts of Gaiole in Chianti. This is a really world-class dining experience in an extraordinary environment. There is a medieval abbey with a church that remains active, and the beautifully-appointed restaurant is next door.
Directions:
We relied on our GPS (A TomTom we brought from the US, and had purchased the Italy maps for it prior to leaving home.) For this villa put in "Verrazano" as the town, and "Center of Town". This will take you right to the villa, and the provided directions help to identify the house.
Check In Out:
The local representative was very available and helpful. I would recommend that future guests be advised to call him when they reach Anghiari, and are 15 or 20 minutes from the villa so he can meet them at the house when they arrive.

Peter, August, 2012

Overall:
The house is in an amazing setting, on a hill, with stunning views of the Tuscan countryside. It has been beautifully renovated and has very functional bug screens on the windows. The Infinity pool is beautiful and is about 100 m away from the house, which is safer with young kids. We had the most relaxing and restful vacation at the house and saw a lot.
Enjoyed Most:
The setting and the old stones .
Enjoyed Least:
A couple of little details were a little annoying: kitchen functionality, such as a drawer that couldn't open as the dish washer was set too close to it; the shower floor wasn't slanted correctly and water tended to pool in the bathroom. The area around the pool is a little rough and it looks like the landscaping hasn't been finalized, in contrast with the infinity pool--which is stunning. But they remain small details and the house, in general, is very beautifully crafted.
Surrounding Area:
The views and quiet. There are different levels outdoors and great fruit trees that made it very interesting. Great hiking trails from the house. The pool is very nice
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari is about 7 kms away. It's too long to walk. There is a goat farm 2 km away which sells cheese and there's a very nice little pizzeria 3 kms away.
Tips or Restaurants:
Bring bugs spray (usual). There are binoculars at the house, which as great for watching wild life. La Nena in Anghieri is a great spot for lunch and appreciating the opulence of the Tuscan countryside. The best gelato is in Cortona on Piazza de la Reppublica!
Directions:
We used a GPS and met Giuseppe, the manager of the property, in Anghiari; he showed us the way,
Check In Out:
It was quick and efficient.

Helene, August, 2012

Overall:
The villa was well-appointed and the setting was beautiful looking down into the valley.
Enjoyed Most:
The views and the setting on the side of the mountain.
Unpleasant Surprises:
We were looking forward to watching the European Champions League final but could not pick up the station covering it on the satellite TV.
Surrounding Area:
Anghiari was a beautiful, interesting, medieval town that is closest to the villa. It has a cafe with internet access and a fine restaurant; the ladies purchased some jewelry at Giuseppe's daughter's shop.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari is about 7 kilometers--not an easy walk.
Directions:
We called Giuseppe from Anghiari and he came to the cafe and guided us to the villa.
Check In Out:
Giuseppe was a delight to deal with, very personable and entertaining. Our water system crashed one morning and he came right over to take care of it. Turned out to be a circuit breaker that had tripped.

Bruce , May, 2012

Overall:
Wonderful experience from the moment we arrived. Giuseppe the keyholder was very helpful and warm. The house was wonderful. I love to cook and found the kitchen to be very well equipped. The views are wonderful and majestic. The town of Anghiari is absolutely gorgeous and has wonderful food.
Enjoyed Most:
The location is spectacular and of course, the house.
Enjoyed Least:
There was not much to dislike. Maybe the fact that I had to kill two scorpions. Editor's Note: The owner instituted a pest control program in late 2011. We have not received complaints in 2012. August 2012.
Surrounding Area:
Very close to wonderful towns.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari
Tips or Restaurants:
No need to bring anything other than music and perhaps movies. We just listenened to music and watched the news at night. Il Feudo del Picario in Anghiari is excellent. The local pizza place at the bottom of the mountain, Il Bucco, was really delicious and had great, friendly service. In Florence we went Coco Lezzone--casual and delicious.

Martha, October, 2011

Overall:
Very pleasant experience.
Enjoyed Most:
We liked the view, the privacy, and the authenticity and design of the house.
Enjoyed Least:
The road to get to the property is narrow with steep drops on the side. There are no posts, barriers or reflectors to indicate the edge of the road on the cliff side and so we hoped not to meet anyone on the road and would not travel the road at night. The armoire for the bedroom on the top floor was inadequate for a couple and would only be useful for a child, even though there was a queen size bed in the room. There was no place for clothing, or luggage.
Surrounding Area:
The town of Anghirari (which was 15 minutes away) was very charming.
Tips or Restaurants:
The house was quite well supplied with basic items. However, there isn't a microwave which would have been helpful, and the toaster did not work well.
Directions:
The written directions to the property seemed fine. We were led to the property from Anghirai by the keyholder, Guiseppe.
Check In Out:
Guiseppe made the check-in and check-out process very easy. He was extremely helpful and made us feel very welcome.

Lottie, October, 2011

Overall:
Very relaxing. We felt right at home. Well-equipped kitchen. The pool was wonderful.
Enjoyed Most:
Remoteness, quiet, the pool, the house set up. We had everything we needed.
Enjoyed Least:
Scorpions. It would have been very helpful to know about them in advance. They were discovered in many places inside the house. I was stung and it was painful. Editor's Note: The owner has confirmed that he will institute a pest control program for 2012. December 2011.
Nearby Events or Locales:
No town within walking distance. Okay with us. we didn't expect it to be.
Tips or Restaurants:
No need to bring mosquito netting for windows. There is netting over 2 of the beds and the windows are screened.
Directions:
We used GPS but the directions were excellent. GPS would be most helpful at night.

Martha , October, 2011

Overall:
The house is in a lovely spot and has a well appointed kitchen although no pasta maker, despite the description, and Giuseppe is charming.
Enjoyed Most:
The location is stunning and Anghiari is a beautiful town to have nearby. Pool is also lovely. House is charming and so is Giuseppe.
Enjoyed Least:
Too many scorpions - at least 3-4 every day. The heat was also oppressive. If I was coming to the same area again at the same time of year I would look for a property with air conditioning.
Surrounding Area:
The tranquility and views, and Anghiari. We weren't there to see sights, although did visit and enjoy Arezzo and Siena, and the short trip to Monterchi to see Piero de la Francesca's Pregnant Madonna. The frequent sightings of wild boar, with their young, were also a highlight.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari is about a 5-10 minute drive.
Tips or Restaurants:
We really enjoyed Anghiari - Alighiero (?) was an excellent restaurant. Free WiFi at Pizzeria Castello means you don't have to patronise thhe rather surly internet cafe in the main square.
Check In Out:
Very relaxed and easy.

Toby, August, 2011

Overall:
We had an outstanding time. Perfect place for two families--enough space to be together and apart. The pool was essential for kids.
Enjoyed Most:
We loved the view, the outside access, and the care and detail on the interior furnishings. We also loved the well stocked kitchen, the pizza fireplace, the infinity pool, and the peace.
Enjoyed Least:
Not much. Landscaping would enhance the look.
Surrounding Area:
Loved the rural setting--such a contrast to the populated medieval towns.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari. We did walk once. Long, hot walk 1 hr. 15 minutes, but pleasant.
Tips or Restaurants:
We didn't really dine out much and it was so lovely eating outdoors at the farmhouse. We did love the goat farm visit. For kids it's good to have a few outdoor things to do.
Directions:
It's a good idea to call the property manager in advance of arrival so he can meet you there.

Susan, August, 2011

Overall:
Peaceful and very relaxing
Enjoyed Most:
The remote location, view, and rustic nature of the house.
Enjoyed Least:
The location relative to the house and the path to the swimming pool. It was hard to use at night.
Surrounding Area:
The wooded countryside and the many hill towns within easy driving area.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The nearest town was Anghiari, which was not within driving distance
Tips or Restaurants:
The house was located in the country so naturally one would expect some bugs. A good supply of mosquito spay comes in handy.
Directions:
The GPS only works to the town of Anghiari, so the directions were vital for finding the house.
Check In Out:
Mr. Dini, the local property manager and Anghiari native, was a real gem. Not only was he a wealth of information but he provided us with a book that he had authored on the region. He also gave us the history of the house, which converted from a derelict farm house.

Henry, July, 2011

Overall:
It was sublime, like living in a Renaissance painting.
Enjoyed Most:
We loved the views down into the valley, the families of wild boar that we saw in the distant fields, the infinity pool, the lavender garden, the tranquility and beautiful rusticity of the rooms in the villa, especially around the dining table, the peace and spaciousness.
Enjoyed Least:
The narrow, twisting road up to it.
Surrounding Area:
The fields, the old part of Anghiari, the back road to Arezzo, the overall pace and peace around town.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari is the nearest, but you would want to drive to it--easy enough to do.
Tips or Restaurants:
The house is so fully equipped that we weren't hurting for anything. Bring an iPod with a playlist and plug it into the speakers in the living room. Then dance. We did, almost every night. Take day trips to other Tuscan towns, eat lunch there, but fix your own Italian dinners with ingredients from local markets.
Directions:
We used a GPS but had no trouble finding Bar Cocomera where we met Giuseppe Dini, the helpful and wonderful property manager.
Check In Out:
It was easy.

William, June, 2011

Overall:
Excellent
Enjoyed Most:
The garden and the swimming pool
Enjoyed Least:
The kitchen
Surrounding Area:
The view
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari is the nearest town; it is not within walking distance.
Directions:
We used GPS

Petko, June, 2011

Overall:
Great place--as good as in the photos.
Enjoyed Most:
The whole package.
Enjoyed Least:
We brought some kitchen things, as suggested. Turns out they weren't needed, so it was just wasted space to carry them.
Surrounding Area:
Angihari is the nearest town.

Maxwell, May, 2011

Overall:
We had a wonderful time! The relaxed and peaceful atmosphere are great for a a more laid back vacation. We hiked, read, and the well appointed kitchen inspired us to try our hand at Italian cooking. The pool is excellent and although the water was cool, 4 in our group went for a swim.
Enjoyed Most:
The comfortable villa and the lush grounds surrounding it combined with the beautiful Tuscan scenery made every day special.
Enjoyed Least:
We really had no complaints, but a few in our group of 8 found the steps a little challenging.
Surrounding Area:
Plenty of interesting plants and a few interesting animals with lots of areas to hike. There are a few other restored houses in the area and a few that have not been restored so plenty to see. There is also a goat farm where they make wonderful cheeses nearby.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari is about 4 or 5 miles away. it is quite hilly so walking would be a real challenge, but possible.
Tips or Restaurants:
Be sure and read through the green book in the villa. Lots of local info including restaurants.
Directions:
One car had a GPS but written directions were excellent.

Dianna, May, 2011

Overall:
On a scale of 1 to 10, I would give our experience a 9.5.
Enjoyed Most:
The overall appointment of the villa was wonderful. The IPod player and satellite TV were enjoyed. The kitchen had more in it than we expected, including an American coffee pot and a dishwasher. We stayed 3 weeks and appreciated the weekly cleaning services and tipped the cleaning service when we left. The one thing we did miss was WIFI and would hope the homeowners could provide that for future guests.
Enjoyed Least:
The little mountain drive to the villa was not great but we got used to it.
Surrounding Area:
We absolutely HIGHLY recommend the area. The small mountain villages were ideal. Very few tourists which was great. Although it was not easy to find locals who spoke much English, with our dictionaries in hand, we survived wonderfully. I will ONLY stay in country towns when I visit anywhere in Europe again. We took many day trips and saw all we wanted. We took one overnight stay to Cinque Terra and that was perfect.
Nearby Events or Locales:
The nearest small village was a walled city, Anghiari. We fell in love with all the small mountain walled-cities which were abundant, very nearby - 5 to 15 miles and absolutely charming! Our villa was NOT within walking distance, but we knew that going in to the trip - that would have been nice, but we were prepared and between the 7 of us, we had 2 cars so traveling into Anghiari and the other town, Sansepolcro, which was about 10 miles away was quite a bit larger. We shopped there for groceries and used an Internet services in Sansepolcro. The Internet-WIFI services are highly supervised by the Italian government - which was a surprise to us Americans to say the least.
Tips or Restaurants:
There were two places we adored in Anghiari. 1. A little hotel just under the arch-tunnel off the main piazza in the center of the walled city. The proprietors were very gracious although they did not speak much English. We were able to arrange convenient and affordable WIFI service in the comfort and coziness of this great little hotel. They had a charming espresso bar, too. 2. On the far east side still in the walled city of Anghiari sat a nice "bar" which is Italian for espresso with wine and with liquor and bites. The view was stupendous! We wished we would have found it sooner, too.

Denise, October, 2010

Overall:
Lovely.
Enjoyed Most:
The pool was refreshing - even in the August heat, the pool was nice and cool.
Enjoyed Least:
Nothing.
Surrounding Area:
It's a dream come true. The location couldn't be beat.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari is the closest town. It's not walking distance but my husband ran to the town each morning - we estimated probably 12 miles round trip.
Tips or Restaurants:
No need to bring anything. The villa was stocked with all necessities including guidebooks and suggested itineraries.
Directions:
We used GPS.

Sergey, August, 2010

Overall:
Very peaceful and relaxing! Just the holiday we needed!
Enjoyed Most:
The setting and authenticity.
Enjoyed Least:
Driving distance.
Surrounding Area:
We enjoyed the town of Anghiari and the immediate countryside of the area. Really felt like you were in a different world.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari is the closest town - not walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
Bring a sweater for the evenings...gets cool up on the mountain. Give yourself the time just to be at the house...very relaxing and beautiful setting!
Directions:
Verazanno is secluded and when we used the GPS to the center of Verazzano, it was just past the house.
Check In Out:
Giuseppe was a great caretaker and joy to meet.

Sharon, August, 2010

Overall:
Excellent.
Enjoyed Most:
The setting, the renovation and the high quality furnishings.
Enjoyed Least:
The insects.
Surrounding Area:
The charming town of Anghiari.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari wasn't in walking distance but it was worth the drive.
Tips or Restaurants:
Bring/buy bug spray - not just for the mosquitoes. The restaurants they suggested in the book at the villa and the ones you suggested in 'living like a local' were all very good!
Directions:
Giuseppe the property manager met us and helped us find it and he was extremely friendly and helpful.

Marianne, July, 2010

Overall:
we were happily surprised by the house especially the views which were utterly jaw dropping.
Enjoyed Most:
The views of course!
Enjoyed Least:
Nothing
Surrounding Area:
The nearest town was quite fabulous and very few tourists which is always wonderful!!! There were great local restaurants and everyone was very friendly.
Check In Out:
Giuseppe the property manager was so friendly and kind, and very relaxed so we weren't made to feel on edge about our stay.

Victoria, July, 2010

Overall:
A lovely home on a ideal perch of land looking over the rolling hills of Tuscany, and the infinity pool is absolute perfection! It exceeded our expectations. It was hard to leave.
Enjoyed Most:
The peaceful setting, the garden, the amazing pool and views. The house has been beautifully renovated and well furnished. The kitchen was very well stocked. We enjoyed dinner at the large outdoor table many of the nights.
Enjoyed Least:
The hungry bugs outside. The upstairs bedroom with the 2 twin beds could use a ceiling fan for better air circulation.
Surrounding Area:
Peaceful setting. We enjoyed visiting the goat cheese farm down the road from the house.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari is the nearest town, and just a short drive. This ancient hill town is a destination in itself, and wish we had spent more time wondering it's narrow cobbled streets.
Tips or Restaurants:
Bring your bug repellent as the country bugs are hungry! Be sure to dine at Il Feudo del Vicario in Anghiari, Via Garibaldi 33 - wonderful meal and service. I recommend the chef's menu.
Directions:
We used your directions and GPS. We found your directions to be excellent. The key holder Giuseppe was awaiting us in town and led us to the house.
Check In Out:
Giuseppe was a pleasure!

Nancy , July, 2010

Overall:
The villa was wonderful. The setting is absolutely gorgeous, marvelous vistas. The pool was great, particularly after long day trips to the wonderful surrounding towns.
Enjoyed Most:
The setting was so peaceful. Our two families enjoyed the surroundings very much. We saw deer and wild boars. We enjoyed walking on the winding country roads.
Enjoyed Least:
We did have some bugs in the evenings. Mosquito nets in all the bedrooms would be a nice touch.
Surrounding Area:
The scenery was very peaceful. The views from the infinity pool was amazing.
Tips or Restaurants:
Enjoy the small towns. Anghiari is really nice. San Sepolcro market place was great. Dinner at Casa di Sorci was great. Great dining in Arezzo.
Directions:
We met the keyholder in Anghiari. While it would have been possible to find the villa on our own, following Giuseppe made it much easier.
Check In Out:
It may be nice to offer to stock the kitchen with staples. We checked in Saturday late afternoon and had to hurry to buy some food before stores closed Sunday.

Kollol, July, 2010

Overall:
Our week at the villa was wonderful and relaxing.
Enjoyed Most:
It was very peaceful and quiet there.
Enjoyed Least:
It is not very close to the freeway system and so it took lots of time to go to other cities in Tuscany.
Surrounding Area:
It was very lush and green.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari is the closest town and it is a ten minute drive, not within walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
Just know that the villa is not really that close to Arezzo even though description says Arezzo area.
Directions:
Giuseppe, who took care of us while we were there, was wonderful about showing us around and found horses for our kids to ride. That really made their week.
Check In Out:
It all went smoothly.

Cam, June, 2010

Overall:
Excellent, despite rather disappointing weather. The clouds and the rain couldn't mask the gorgeous setting.
Enjoyed Most:
Spaciousness and comfort, right down to the quality of the linens and the dishes and utensils.
Enjoyed Least:
A little isolated; must have a car even to get to closest town.
Surrounding Area:
Green, forested hills goat farm just down the road small villages of historical and artistic interest within short distances.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari was the closest town.
Tips or Restaurants:
This villa is truly fully equipped. The local property manager has published a delightful book. Buy it and you will have the best itineraries in the area as well as restaurant recommendations. Our faves were La Pergola in Tavernelle, Pizza Balducci in Anghiari.

Donna, May, 2010

Overall:
We went to Casa del Saraceno to celebrate my mother's birthday. There were nine of us in all, including 2 small children and it was perfect for a big group. We all loved it and highly recommend it for groups.
Enjoyed Most:
The property was beautiful. Peaceful with stunning views. The whole house is very well equipped and the property was designed so that there was enough privacy for everyone.
Enjoyed Least:
No complaints.
Surrounding Area:
Good walks near the house - into the hills or down to a small stream. The view from the swimming pool is breathtaking.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari - which is a drive away. You need a car to get around the area.
Tips or Restaurants:
It would be useful to bring a mobile-cell phone along. Also, try to time it with the Antiques Festival in Arezzo on the first weekend of each month. There's a great folder at the house with lots of ideas of places to go, restaurants to visit.
Directions:
They are fine but worth getting a GPS.
Check In Out:
No - all went smoothly.

Christina , October, 2009

Overall:
The views are spectacular! The house is very comfortable and all amenities are provided. Kitchen is excellent. We made some great meals with the local fresh pastas and vegetables.The beds are very comfortable and beautifully decorated. Due to the location of the house high on a hill, the drive to the villa is challenging to an unfamiliar driver.
Enjoyed Most:
The view! Shangri-La like!!!Infinity pool is beautiful.
Surrounding Area:
Anghiari is a charming Tuscan hill town.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Nearest town is Anghiari. Ten to fifteen minute drive.
Directions:
Negotiating the roads of Tuscany is not for the "faint of heart."

Kevin, October, 2009

Overall:
We had a wonderful time, very relaxing, amazing views.
Enjoyed Most:
All amenities were available. Giuseppe, the caretaker, was always available for any queries. The pool is beautiful. Extremely peaceful and quiet. Also great that the cleaning was included in the price.
Enjoyed Least:
The area around the pool the pool deck was full of small pebbles which stick to your feet and make it a bit difficult to walk on.
Surrounding Area:
Conveniently close to Anghiari by car for groceries. Beautiful hikes in the area, the kids enjoyed hiking down to the stream below, which was full of tadpoles and frogs eggs!
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari - which we did by car.
Tips or Restaurants:
The restaurant on the bottom of the hill at the turn off to Toppole is delicious and not too pricey. Very nice local restaurant!
Directions:
Giuseppe, the caretaker, met us in Anghiari and drove in front of us to the property.

Meily, August, 2009

Overall:
A beautiful setting, a perfect way to relax.
Enjoyed Most:
Its privacy and setting.
Enjoyed Least:
That during the day it needed more shade in order to eat outside.
Surrounding Area:
The local town of Anghiari was lovely and had everything we needed.
Tips or Restaurants:
We ate a lovely restaurant in Anghiari called Ristorante da Alighiero.

Sophie, August, 2009

Overall:
We had a wonderful holiday. It was a beautiful, peaceful place, the perfect location for a reunion with old friends, plenty of reading and relaxing too.
Enjoyed Most:
The property felt like home without any of the hassles.
Enjoyed Least:
It was a 15 minute from the nearest town.
Surrounding Area:
It was amazingly unspoilt. We felt the views across the valley were unchanged from hundreds of year ago.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Anghiari was the nearest small town. It was definitely not within walking distance.
Tips or Restaurants:
We made the mistake of believing the weather forecast which predicted hot,sunny weather. It rained the first 3 days and was chilly. We did not bring foul weather clothes. There are lots of good restaurant tips in Casa Sarceno's guest book.

Ann, June, 2009

Overall:
What a fantastic place to stay relax and enjoy. Beautifully renovated peaceful villa. 2 Moms, 5 kids, and a super place to unwind and enjoy.
Enjoyed Most:
Loved the homey atmosphere. A super rental spot with all the amenities.
Enjoyed Least:
We spent a week in the rain so really did not get a chance to explore the immediate surroundings. The bugs, however, did also want to get out of the rain and visit us inside.
Surrounding Area:
The quiet secluded area. Incredible view.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Nearest town max 10 minutes away.
Tips or Restaurants:
Easy to tour around half a day and relax the other half. We took the high speed train from Arezzo to Rome - 1hr 10min - for a really special day excursion.
Check In Out:
Giuseppe is a fantastic asset to have. He was very helpful and we even called him up mid-week to ask for more information.

Julie, November, 2008

Overall:
Our families, including the kids, really enjoyed the stay and we all hope to come back
Enjoyed Most:
A marvelous house at a fantastic place. We appreciated that the house was restored in Tuscany style, at the same time as it was very luxury. The pool was simply the best.
Enjoyed Least:
We found some scorpions.
Surrounding Area:
Completely isolated place, but only 10-15 minutes from the beautiful town of Anghiari.
Tips or Restaurants:
Bring your phrase book to the very local restaurant at the bottom of the mountain/hill and have a nice meal with the locals.

Flemming, July, 2008

Overall:
It was simply an outstanding experience on all levels comfort, luxury, view, decor... from cooking utensils to poolside chairs, the property has everything you'd ever need... and then some.
Enjoyed Most:
The property combined the best elements and benefits of staying at a hotel, while enjoying all the comforts of home. We truly could not have asked for more.
Enjoyed Least:
The bugs... but not much anybody can do about them.
Surrounding Area:
The peace, the quiet, the view, the pool -
Nearby Events or Locales:
The town of Anghiara has everything you would need -- a market, wine, newspapers, good restaurants, and shopping etc. Yet, it's not spoiled by tourists and tourist-type traps. It's a short drive or a longer hike.

Stephanie, July, 2008