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Sleeps:
16
Single Bedrooms:
0
Double Bedrooms:
8
Bathrooms:
8
Type:
Farmhouse
Property #:
10128
Nearest Town:
Sarteano
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Overall
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Peace & Quiet
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View
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Outside Area
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Living Room
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Bedroom
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Bathroom
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Kitchen
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Independent House |
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Swimming Pool |
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Washing Machine |
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Housekeeping |
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Incoming Telephone |
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Outgoing Telephone |
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Stands Out |
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Garden Equipment |
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Private Outside Area |
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Baby Beds |
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Dishwasher |
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Television |
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Based on 15 Reviews |
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Overall
Peace and Quiet
View
Outside Area
Living Room
Kitchen
Bedrooms
Bathrooms
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Enjoyed Most:
The view, the annex with the dinning and living area was great for a large group. The cook did a great job but she was misinformed on the size of our group. In addition she substituted pork for chicken on the first night, otherwise the food was great.
Unpleasant Surprises:
We did not enjoy the long 2 mile drive every day on the unpaved road. This villa was not good for city folks. A couple of days would have been good but a full week was too long. My guests felt isolated.
Surrounding Area:
The views were fantastic.
Tips or Restaurants:
We did not know that we needed to buy toilet paper. In addition there was no dryer. The towel and linen changes of only once per week were not ample. The linen changes should be every other day.
September, 2005
Enjoyed Most:
All rooms had good en-suite facilities. Rooms were private and well equipped. The housekeeper cooked us some wonderful meals - strongly recommended.
Unpleasant Surprises:
The long road was in poor condition upon our arrival, but the staff, once notified, were swift and decisive in expediting the matter.
Surrounding Area:
Peace and tranquility. The nightly display of fireflies and glowworms always amazed.
Tips or Restaurants:
The Frateria di Padre Eligio at the Convento di San Francesco; Mondo X in Cetona is one of the most stunning building settings any of us 12 adults have ever been to. The restaurant is fantastic, in particular the degustazione menu. Very highly recommended.
July, 2004
Enjoyed Most:
The kitchen and the dining area. Most of us remained in the dining area after dinner to play cards. We all enjoyed having the fireplace in the evenings.
Unpleasant Surprises:
The refridgerator was a bit small in size for the 16 of us. It responded by iceing up when filled. Some of the bedside tables were of a plastic material and were not quite adequate.
Surrounding Area:
The location was worth the drive up the rocky road. We all enjoyed seeing rabbits, snakes, deer, birds and boar running across out road. The children were especially thrilled.
June, 2004
Enjoyed Most:
The property was everything you would hope for in a Tuscan home. Even though from the outside it looked very rustic, inside was modern with no lack of Tuscan feeling. The pool was wonderful, as was the large dining room.
Unpleasant Surprises:
The road to get there. We did expect a rough road after reading the other comments but I think some of the city folks who were with us were a bit shocked. Also, the living area didn't have enough seating room.
Surrounding Area:
The peace and quiet was very nice. Sarteano was a nice little town but the drive between there and Pienza was breathtaking.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Nothing was within walking distance although we did walk to the Abby one day---it was an extreme hike.
Tips or Restaurants:
I highly recommend booking the cook. We did for one night before we left and she was superb! We were a bit hesitant to book her for more than that until we were told how much it cost, under EUR 200 for a five course dinner for 14 people!!! We booked her for another night on the spot. It was cheaper than going to any restaurant and much safer because of the roads.
Directions:
The sign for Radicofani was hard to find the first time. It's in blue and on a building.
Check In Out:
It was wonderful having an escort guide us to the property. We never would have found it on our own!
June, 2004
Overall:
The house was wonderful and located well off the highway(5KM). The house was adequate and had a world class view of the surrounding countryside. The housekeeper was a wonderful woman who my grandchildren enjoyed speaking Italian with.The staff were very helpful and assisted us on planning our daily outings.
Enjoyed Most:
The peace and quiet.
Surrounding Area:
The area surrounding the farm is some of the most beautiful scenery in Italy. There were many small towns within easy driving distance each with many new adventures.
Events or Locales:
Our entire family took a wonderful trip to Siena.
Tips or Restaurants:
Many good restaurants in Sarteano. I would suggest several meals cooked by the housekeeper. She is a wonderful cook.
June, 2003
Overall:
This is the perfect spot for a large family. The children can explore and see deer and pheasants. The adults can relax with a good book. The house is large enough to have privacy.
Enjoyed Most:
The landscape and views of the countryside were wonderful. It seemed as though you could see forever.
Unpleasant Surprises:
The drive in was quite long and the road had many ruts.
Surrounding Area:
The proximity to small towns and points of interest allowed each day to have a new area of discovery.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Although the town of Sarteano was not near enought to walk, once we drove there it had a lovely central square and some charming shops. The local restaurants had not only good food but the people were very friendly and gave us advice about other little towns we should not miss seeing.
Tips or Restaurants:
We loved Il Poggio at Celle sul Rigo. The children went riding, we had a great lunch with a fabulous view. Then we purchased wine and wonderful ceramics from their shop. A great afternoon. We also enjoyed Sunday afternoon dinner at a small hotel in Radicofani and a few dinners in Pienza. Everyone was cordial and the food very good.
March, 2003
Overall:
We had an incredible time at this property. If you're looking for a fun, interesting and unique place for 4 or more (many more) couples, book this property!
Enjoyed Most:
The sunset views from the lawn were breathtaking...as if they were painted there for our enjoyment. Each room has a private bath. The pool came in handy for those hot, hot Tuscan afternoons. Also, the staff at the Abbey could not have been more helpful (ie: emergency internet use, arranging a cook fabulous, in-home dinners, etc.). Some of the other reviews mentioned the long, bumpy road leading to the house. Let me tell you...we loved it. Sure, it twisted and turned but the views were amazing and it made you feel as if you were away from IT ALL. That's what this property is all about. It's very private but not too far from some of the coolest towns in Tuscany.
Unpleasant Surprises:
The living room wasn't the biggest. Didn't bother us. The dining room was very accomodating, though.
Surrounding Area:
Sarteano and Chiusi are the closest towns and they rock. Beyond those, there are dozens of others to visit. We drank and ate our way across the area and are actually planning to visit again.
July, 2002
Overall:
This was one of the most beautiful places I've ever been to. We loved everything about it. The kitchen was a huge benefit. We loved the fact that all of the rooms were en suite. The views were breathtaking. Everyone was tremendously helpful. We will rent from Rentvillas again. And we will go back to this property...
Enjoyed Most:
There was nothing that we didn't like. We didn't even mind the drive to get to the villa. It was beautiful and rustic and accomodating. A perfect place to relax, and a perfect base to travel from, which we did a lot of...
Unpleasant Surprises:
There was nothing we didn't like. The only suggestion is to put screens in the windows so that the windows can be opened at night. But this wasn't a problem, nor is it a criticism. It's a way to let the beautiful Italian evening into the bedrooms at night is all. :-)
Surrounding Area:
The views were staggeringly beautiful, and the closest town, Sarteano, was a wonderful place to visit. We shopped every day, the train station was so easy to travel from, we found wonderful people in town. There is no criticisms at all!
Nearby Events or Locales:
Sarteano, Orviesso, the vineyards, the lakes, the jazz festival in the town, the mountains, our pool, our dining room, the little grocery store, the vineyard in Montepulciano
Tips or Restaurants:
Go shopping in town and use the incredible kitchen. We made the most incredible meals almost every night. And use it as a base. We travelled to Rome, Florence, Pisa and Venice.
June, 2002
Overall:
The whole family found this property to be totally awesome. We all loved it. Even the drive on the dirt road was an adventure. The house was perfect for a large family gathering.
Enjoyed Most:
Location, awesome views, bathrooms, bedrooms, helpfulness of the staff.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Kitchen stove burner wasn't repaired in a timely manner, lack of lighting in the main room and kitchen (too dim). The living room needed more seats and tables since that is where we all gathered every night.
Surrounding Area:
Everything. What's not to like about Tuscany? Your little booklet was quite helpful.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Lots of great towns to visit and wonderful views - Montalcino, Montepulciano, Todi, Orvieto, Cortona, easy access (train or car) to Florence and Rome, Siena. An abundance of locations to buy local ceramics.
Tips or Restaurants:
Nilo in Cetona
The Abbey in Cetona (up on the mountain).
October, 2001
Overall:
Due to the fact that the road to and from the house is extremely rough, we stayed most of the time in the house. However, the house is great! Luxury and a lot of space, so it's no problem to stay in the house for days and enjoy the view, the sun and the pool. The best "restaurant" is in the house itself: Have a local Italian woman to prepare the meal. It's fantastic. Montepulciano is a charming town. Siena is a must, but prepare for a long scenic drive.
Enjoyed Most:
The attention to the details. An old house restored with respect in the most beautiful surroundings. The service is perfect - cleaning, garden and pool service as well as the service from the renters - what ever you need they will get.
Unpleasant Surprises:
The road leading to the house. It needs to be improved.
Surrounding Area:
The view and the silence was magnificent.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Due to the fact that the road to and from the house is extremely rough we stayed most of the time in the house. Montepulciano is a charming town. Siena is a must - but prepare for a long drive (no highways)
Tips or Restaurants:
Do not plan to use the house as a base for daily trips in the area. The road to and from the house takes 20-25 minutes both ways and is no fun! On the other hand the house is great! Luxury and a lot of space, so it's no problem to stay in the house for days and enjoy the view, the sun and the pool.
The best "restaurant" is in the house itself: Have a local Italian woman to prepare the meal. It's fantastic.
July, 2001
Overall:
Would definitely go back. We rented the villa for our families to stay in for our wedding. We got married in Sarteano and had our reception was in the garden of the Abbazia de Spineto. It was truly magical--better than we ever dreamed it could be.
Enjoyed Most:
The privacy, the views, the size, the modern ammenities within an old setting. The gardens and property surrounding the abbey are wonderful...a lake, horses, etc.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Bugs because there were screens on most windows but not all. And the driveway was LONG--we were told it was long but it's incredibly windy and bumpy too (not comfortable for older people).
Surrounding Area:
The entire region is so beautiful and it's a great location for day trips to incredible cities like Siena, Montepulicano, Pienza, etc.
Nearby Events or Locales:
LOVED the town of Pienza.
Tips or Restaurants:
La Chiusa, an inn in Montefellonico has a wonderful restaurant and in Pienza there is a great trattoria at the end of the main street.
July, 2001
Overall:
The location and the property itself were beautiful. The staff was extremely hospitable and attentive to details.
Enjoyed Most:
It was situated in a beatutiful, remote part of Tuscany, but the shopping mile 20 minutes away allowed for all our needs to be met.
Unpleasant Surprises:
The roads were extremely difficult to navigate. One can drive on them with a regular car, but a 4X4 would be preferable.
Surrounding Area:
It was beautiful from a scenic standpoint and it was central to much of Tuscany.
Nearby Events or Locales:
Sarteano is small without much in it. There is more in the other neighboring towns.
July, 2001
Overall:
The property was exactly as described. It was very secluded and private.
Enjoyed Most:
I liked the quiet, the spectacular sunsets, the nightly firefly display, and the nearly complete sense of privacy.
Unpleasant Surprises:
It was a bit of a drive to Sartaeno.
Surrounding Area:
There were many beautiful hill towns within a very short drive. I especially loved the open air markets, the church outside of Montepulciano, and the castle at Radicofani.
Tips or Restaurants:
There is a great restaurant called Il Fratoria just outside
of Cetona, about a twenty minute drive from the house.
It serves a prix fixe seven or eight
course meal in an incredibly beautiful, elegant
setting.
June, 2001
Overall:
We rented this property for our wedding and we couldn't have had a more perfect place. It was very secluded, had gorgeous panoramic views of the tuscan countryside, and was nicely furnished. We had a very enjoyable time and can't wait to go back. The staff was extremely friendly and accommodating. The rooms are large, each with a private full bath. Two of the rooms are in separate cottages. There are 8 rooms in total, two with double beds, the rest with two twins. There is a large dining room in a separate building that can accommodate large groups. There is a wonderful view from the adjoining sitting area.
Enjoyed Most:
The location - we liked being "in the country" away from large towns. The property is an expert balance of old and new. The rooms are large with private baths. There are sweeping views from the rooms and yard, ideal for dining outdoors. The staff is very helpful, friendly, and accommodating. The catering services provide delicious, multicourse meals prepared on site at very reasonable prices. The location - though in the country, is close to Montalcino, Montepulciano, Siena, Florence, and Pienza. It is great for anyone who likes good food and wine.
Unpleasant Surprises:
Nothing really, if pressed: the 5km dirt road is a bit rough - it takes about 15-20 minutes to get to the villa from the main road. But, that's the price you pay for seclusion.
Surrounding Area:
There are wonderful small towns to visit like Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and Chiusi. It is close to a train station for guests to arrive. The property is great for hikes. The pool at the villa is great in summer.
Tips and Suggestions:
Have at least 2 meals catered by the abbey. Go to Montalcino if you like wine. Pienza is a great small town with excellent cheese and wine shops. The Cafe Poliziano in Montepulciano has a great view. The gelato everywhere is delicious. Arrange for a cooking class to be held at the property.
June, 2001
Overall:
This house and the surrounding countryside were just beautiful. We could not get enough of the views. Everyone was on the phone the first night calling home to tell their families how gorgeous the house was. The wild boar families were an added attraction.
Enjoyed Most:
The people who run this operation are wonderful. The meal that was ready for us when we arrived was excellent. The woman who cleaned every day were most helpful and courteous. I loved the fact that the four adults could stay in the small adjoining "cottages' and leave the house to the teenagers. Great for sleeping, but only good if you have very reliable kids--which ours were. Another plus--well-stocked kitchen. I have zero complaints. And oh, those views!
Unpleasant Surprises:
The swimming pool tended to collect a varity of bugs, but I think this kind of location makes that unavoidable.
Surrounding Area:
This is our favorite part of Tuscany so we loved being able to get to all our favorite cities and villages. We did find it necessary to plan carefully so we left the house only once a day--that ride was not something that allowed for a lot of coming and going.
Tips or Restaurants:
There is an hotel in Sarteano that served excellent food. Sorry I do not have the name with me. I will chack at home and let you know.
May, 2001
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