Casale Eleganza

This was the vacation of a lifetime. We had to keep pinching ourselves. The villa was gorgeous, unbelievably luxurious. The house and grounds were impeccably kept. The landscaping was breathtaking. We were surrounded by flowers, a vineyard, and an olive grove. The pool was sparkling and clean. There were nine of us and the house accommodated us all with ease. There were plenty of spaces for chatting, reading, napping, eating, watching movies, playing cards, swimming, etc. We loved every moment! It was beautiful inside and out. The inside was gorgeous and comfortable. The house is full of artwork - a feast for the eyes. Just looking out any window was a breathtaking view. Sitting by the pool filled one with a deep sense of peace surrounded by the vineyards and hills. We were so enamored of our villa, we didn't feel the need to leave. We did enjoy going into the ancient walled city of San Gimignano to shop and see the sights. Some members of our family went to Siena and Volterra. We were also close to Firenze. The villa is centrally located.

This is a beautiful, luxuriously appointed property. Beautiful outside area and pool with spectacular views. Sorry to be so general but really everything - all rooms were spectacular, pool area was terrific. Linens, furnishings, kitchen were all excellent. There was one very cool surprise - the Via Francia (the ancient road) literally travels through the vineyard on the edge of the property, so it was interesting, particularly for our children, to think about pilgrims walking along this ancient road and helped them better understand how and why towns along the road like San Gimignano developed. Terrific location. Easy and short drive into San Gimignano, easy access to Siena, Florence, Volterra.

This trip to Italy was the "destination" celebration of a milestone birthday and our stay did not disappoint! The grounds were gorgeous as we found ourselves surrounded by vineyards and olive groves stretching down into a beautiful valley. The house was spacious and immaculate. There were ten in our party and each couple had their own bedroom with an en-suite bathroom. The pool and surrounding terrace were beautiful, fully outfitted with loungers and umbrellas. We visited in October and the water was a bit cold. Regardless, we had two brave souls jump in and take advantage of the pool because we had perfect weather (in the mid-70's all week). The dining room was a treat with seating for 10. We did book a chef to come in and cook for us one evening it was an absolutely wonderful dining experience! I highly recommend this to everyone! After dinner, we spent most of our evenings out on the terrace (featuring a dining table and chairs for 10) enjoying our surroundings over bottles of Tuscan wine. We loved the gorgeous vistas and the very peaceful location. We also loved the fact that we were close enough to visit San Gimignano, Florence, Volterra and many wineries with ease.

We had a wonderful time at the villa. Everything about the villa and property exceeded our expectations. The grounds at this time of the year were breathtaking with flowers in full bloom. Every detail in the house was welcoming, all of our needs were anticipated. As we were making our plans before arrival, the owner was most responsive. Once there, the villa manager catered to our every need. We cannot wait to return. The pictures cannot capture the serenity and beauty of the property. There are welcoming places around the villa to sit and absorb the views. Though only a few members of our party used the pool, we all enjoyed sitting there. The large fully equipped kitchen was the heart of the villa for us. It was hard to choose whether to eat outside or in the dining room. Each bedroom is unique and furnished exquisitely with an adjoining bath. Each bedroom is private. We felt welcomed and at home. I don't think there was anything we did not like about the property. You will be best served if a member of your party enjoys driving as the road at night is a bit daunting. To our three sons, it was an enjoyable part of the experience. We loved the proximity to so many wonderful towns and Florence. Which ever way you went from the Villa, the drive was incredible. The villa was a short distance to San Gimignano. For more adventurous types, it would be walking distance. And forget Rick Steves. This was our favorite small town. Just beautiful and so enjoyable. You don't need to worry about bringing anything. The villa is fully equipped with everything. Too many great restaurants to write about.

Above expectations, a week in a Tuscan paradise. We enjoyed most the view from the pool, the view from the terrace, the bottles of wine offered by our host, the comfort of the rooms, peace and silence throughout the day. In the surrounding area: San Gimignano, Volterra, Certaldo Alto, Siena, Ceramics in Montelupo (off the expensive beaten path), Greve in Chianti, Da Pode restaurant and the Bistecca Fiorentina, Vernaccia tasting... everything in this Tuscan area. San Gimignano is the nearest town and it is within walking distance. It's a nice hike but not at midday in summer, and only for the ones is if you're in good health. It's about a 3 km walk through the hills. A car is needed.