Agriturismos in Italy
The Italian sun is particularly easy to enjoy when bathing in the hospitality of a rural farmhouse. What is your experience staying at Agriturismos in rural Italy? What is your favorite and why? Please include the REGION in the subject line.
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Italyfarmstay
My boyfriend and I stayed at Italyfarmstay up in the Abruzzi mountains. We enjoyed every minute of it. We went horseback riding, ate very good food for a cheap price, and met good friends whom we still keep in contact with after just meeting them for two days. It's a very relaxing place to go where everything is not so fast. I highly recommend this farmhouse if you're looking to meet good friendly people and a relaxing weekend. Thanks Antonello and family for the weekend fun. We'll definitely come back.
Grace
Hawaii USA 05/12/2008
The Wonderful Adriatic Coast
We’re from Texas-New Mexico. We’ve been to Venice and Trieste several times but we had always wanted to and had never seen anymore of the Adriatic coast. Rick doesn’t have any places to recommend on that side of Italy (except Venice).
So I found my own spot.
http://www.lacasasullalberobio.it/
The place I found is an Agriturismo and we stayed there recently. http://www.agriturismo.net/offers_eng.html?PR=G07&gclid=CPfgvcLfkpMCFQurPAodShoKEQ) http://en.agriturismo.it/
I can’t remember anyplace that I have ever stayed that I could more highly recommend. The family who owns it understands about the pitiful condition of our dollar and gave us a good break.
It's a beautifully restored, ancient farmhouse near the medieval town of Monte San Vito in the province of Ancona.
http://www.maplandia.com/italy/umbria/perugia/monte-san-vito/
http://members.virtualtourist.com/m/6ce90/240b0/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/hskelter/2293939033/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monte_San_Vito
http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Europe/Italy/Monte_San_Vito-147632/TravelGuide-Monte_San_Vito.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Province_of_Ancona
http://maps.live.com/default.aspx?v=2&cp=43.619138~13.531151&style=h&lvl=18&tilt=-39.5695381538623&dir=216.31874425295&alt=434.836177944206&cam=43.622418~13.534469&scene=7487361&encType=1
http://maps.google.com/maps?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rls=GFRC,GFRC:2007-04,GFRC:en&q=Ancona+AN,+Italy&um=1&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&resnum=1&ct=title
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancona
http://www.pbase.com/bharkins/ancona
The house was restored with great attention to detail and much effort to preserve the original historical and traditional architectural features as well as discrete installation of all modern technology to insure comfortable and safe living in all seasons………..plenty of hot water under good pressure………..my wife and I are both shower nuts.
The family who owns it is exceptionally hospitable and attentive as well as very friendly and charming without, in any way, imposing. They were more personally helpful than any five star hotel in my experience.
I took a lot of pictures and would be glad to send them to anyone who is interested.
Tuscany, Montalcino
Montalcino is a perfect Tuscan gem. Smaller and much less touristy than Montepulciano. As a matter of fact we saw only two other tourists during our entire three day June stay. Lovely little fortress to explore. Great wine shops, convenient grocery store. Unbelievable views. Great walking.
Il Poggiolo in Florence
Tuscan Lodging
I also stayed at a B&B in Anghiari which I can recommend (www.tuscanbliss.com). Two homes from the middle ages have been combined and restored only recently into a comfortable, well-furnished home with two bedrooms for guests. The B&B sits just outside the old city walls of Anghiari. This is a district (NE of Arezzo and in the Tuscan Appenines) well-suited for nature walks.
Agriturismo Cretaiole - Spirit of Toscana
The Moricciani family go out of their way to make their guests feel welcome and to give them a little taste of what it means to BE in Toscana. Isabella, in particular, did much to make our stay comfortable and memorable - helping us to experience a little of their life through activities and tours that capture the spirit of the area: a visit to a local, organic farm; tour of a small winery near Montalcino; a guided tour in Siena; a pici-making class at Cretaiole. The highlight of both weeks was a meal with all the guests and as many of the Moriccianis as could make it - fresh pici, grilled meats, cheese, wine, vin santo as well as dolci. Everyone contributed.
Cretaiole is a wonderful value - a great location with lots to see and do nearby. Siena and Firenze are both within easy reach for day-trips, if you want to do that. We spent one night away in Firenze during our two week stay. We recommend Agriturismo Cretaiole wholeheartedly and are planning to visit again in 2009.
Farm Stay close to Rome
Casa Portagiolio
The breakfasts aren’t like any we have had any where. They serve trays of fresh fruits, fresh squeezed orange juice, freshly baked croissants, eggs to order and the best hot chocolate! Twice a week Marcello cooks a very memorable Tuscan meal!
Terry is available to help you with planning while visiting. Whether touring the hill towns, vineyards, or art museums he is willing to assist, with directions or reservations.
I could go on and on about Casa Portagioia as love and are excited to return for the 3rd time this Fall. The web site is www.tuscanbreaks.com.
April 22, 2008
Sally Roper
Lincoln, NE.
La Crociona
The highlight of the stay was the time we spent with Barbara and Roberto in the morning. Roberto gave us a wonderful tour of the winery and the wine cellars (we're from the Finger Lakes area of NY so we had some prior knowledge of what we were seeing). We then spent an hour or two with Barbara and Roberto tasting wine (of course Brunello is a real treat) and talking about traveling in Italy, the Finger Lakes, wine making, farming, etc. (We had driven from Lucca the day before and Barbara had suggested an itinerary via e-mail which we followed to a significant degree.) In all we had a wonderful time. We would definitely stay here again and hope to see Barbara and Roberto.
Il Cretaiole
Agriturismo Cretaiole in Tuscany
She also set up a wonderful three-hour guided tour for us in Siena (included in the price of the room) and booked our reservation to the Accademia in Florence. For others, she called around until she found a winery offering tours depsite the Verona wine festival that shut down most wineries for the week. Her restaurant recommendations in Pienza and nearby San Quirico d'Orcia were right on the money. You will not find a more picturesque region of Tuscany than Val d'Orcia, nor a better vantage point than Cretaiole. Please, if you want to truly experience the Tuscan lifestyle with the warmest hosts imaginable....stay at Creatiole (book early)!
Wonderful Farm Near Florence
Italy Farm Stay near Rome and Naples
Antonello is a wonderful host and has an easy, relaxed demeanor with a sense of humor that is pitch-perfect for the task. Giuseppe, his father, is always around helping out. He speaks no English, but he and I bonded tightly over the local history. Giuseppe's wife, Maria, rules the kitchen (including the brand new commercial kitchen just added next to the house) and will feed you simple but good and filling meals each night for the bargain price of 9 Euro per person, if you desire. Wash it down with as much of Giuseppe's wine as you care to imbibe.
Downsides? Hmmm. Our room was a bit cold, but then so was the weather and the facility is better presented in warmer weather. What we missed in sunshine was more than made up by the hospitality and new friendships, both from Antonello's family and the other guests. If you are looking for a pampered experience, or the cachet of Tuscany or Umbria, this may not be the place. But if you want a glimpse into the authentic lives and personalities of Appenine Italians and to see spectacular scenery (and an area that Rick for some reason doesn't cover in his books, then book here. www.italyfarmstay.com.
Oh, one more thing for those with kids: There are usually a few backpackers staying on as volunteer workers in exchange for room and board. We found these people to be willing and excellent baby sitters, which allowed my wife and I a chance to walk at a normal pace and engage the world without the kids for a few hours. Priceless.
Corte Castelletto near Verona
La Falconara
Poggiacolle Agriturismos
Tenuta San Carlo
Italy Farm Stay
He has many activities for guest to do on their stay such as an over night hike up Crow Mountian, shorter day hikes through amazing geological formations, cooking classes (making fresh pasta), yoga and visits to a real cheese making shepherd. To check out this place go to Italyfarmstay.com.
a wonderful stay at Agriturismo Marciano, Siena
Tenuta San Carlo
Agriturismo Frallarenza
The proprietors, Francesco and Serena, were wonderfully generous with their time and always willing to give us tips on where to go in the surrounding areas. Serena is a gifted artist, whose ceramics (cups, bowls, tiles, even the sink!) grace both apartments and are available for sale. Also, we were lucky to be staying at the farm during the annual olive harvest and got the chance to pick olives with the family. My husband and I highly recommend Agriturismo Frallarenza and hope to return there ourselves one day.
Cretaiole - the Heart of Tuscany
Agriturismo Cretaiole, though it was the first agriturismo in the region, is not nearly as well known as some of the others. It's a beautiful old farm house, perched on a hill and
nestled by olive trees, and cedars. If you stop to look out the back, you will have some of the most marvelous views of mountains and fields. Isabella and her family, Carlo, Luciano, and Lilliana, have created a warm, welcoming venue, and the apartments are marvelous. You will arrive and immediately feel like you are part of an extended family. At no time will you ever feel like a guest who has stayed too long, or that you are bothersome. And Isabella stops by daily to check on you and helps you with your plans for the day.
Cretaiole is a fantastic location to relax and sit outside and read, or nap, either in your room, in the hammock, or on very comfortable lawn furniture. Or, you can do as I did, and travel to many wonderful, rustic and interesting (and some a bit spooky) towns, mostly less than an hours drive. Isabella has created a several hundred page travel guide with a copy for each room. It has descriptions of all the local towns, their history, interesting things to see, and fantastic places to eat. To take it one step further...they have created day trip itineraries solely for your use. You are not only allowed, but encouraged to take the books with you. Just choose one of the itineraries, follow the detailed directions and you'll find yourself whisked away to old, authentic Italy. Places that haven't been changed in hundreds of years, where the people still work the land and celebrate life the same way their parents and grand parents did. Then there are the times to put away the maps and itineraries, and explore. The region around the Val D’Orcia is filled with gravel roads. Where do they go? I don’t know, and you won’t know till you take one, but take one. Driving down a gravel road, dust flying behind you, wondering who and what you will find at the next turn is a fabulous adventure. I did it several times and happened upon people and small hamlets that aren’t on any map, but held such charm and beauty it was well worth the chancing.
Isabella and Carlo have also setup a list of possible event where you can learn and do things without having to travel far outside of Cretaiole at all. There is the Uccelliera Vineyard in Castlenuovo Dell'Abate to visit (fantastic Nobile and Brunello - never had them before, Brunello is now my favorite wine). The local olive press where you can view, learn and taste how fresh olive oil is made (and how different fresh is from what we get in the U.S). There is much more, one of my favorites is the Hermitage tour. This is on land the Moricciani own. Isabella will walk you through the tour and explain the Etruscan history and religious symbolisms of the place. Additionally, there is the weekly pici class, where you are instructed on how to make pici, a regional dish done only in the Val D’Orcia, is something that should not be missed. You will learn the history of pici during the class – which is fantastically fun, and you will finish with a gastronomic delight of pici, sausages, bread, wine, cheeses, fruit, grappa, vin santo. It’s a time where everyone gets together for a feast and sharing of stories, friendship, laughter, and food, a perfect end to your time at Cretaiole.
During all of these adventures, whether driving someplace, or taking part of the pici making class, you will start to realize the wonder of the land and it's people. I was in awe, not only of the land, the activities, the food, the countryside and they cities, but even more by the passion Isabella, Carlos, Luciano, and Lilliana have towards Cretaiole and the Val D'Orcia.
When it was time to leave, I had some tears in my eyes. These people poured out their love and passions freely to me. I felt like I was leaving a very dear friend I might not see
again for a while. But as sad as that was, I knew I was better. My heart, mind, and soul where all refreshed and lightened beyond what I ever imagined a vacation could do. And my outlook on the world and my own life was changed forever.
I'm not sure exactly what Val D'Orcia means in English and it's not important, but I think it should translate to Valley of Life. I believe, Agriturismo Cretaiole and the Val
D'Orcia and all the people there, are truly the heart of Italy, not the tourist heart, but the real heartbeat, the hands in the dirt, raising families, loving each other, and loving their friends, real live heartbeat of Italy. And while you are there...you will get caught up in that heartbeat and never want to leave.
But, once you are gone, all you’ll have to do is just close your eyes, and breathe and think back and you’ll feel your heart beating in time with Val D'Orcia and find yourself transported back to Cretaiole and suddenly you'll feel a warmness in your chest and a wide smile on your face. Agriturismo Cretaiole and the Val D’Orcia, they are a place and a people you won't forget and will want to see many times more.
www.cretaiole.it
Italy Farm Stay --Pescosolido
La Cassette, outside of Baschi, Italy
Casa Portagioia
Attention to detail, quality linens, beautifully clean appointed rooms and bathrooms - plus excellent breakasts and dinner (we could only have this once - a real pity). Well stocked gardens and grounds - all so well maintained and like everything else - cared for.
Il Poggiacole, Tuscany
La Palombara, Umbria
agriturismo
Italyfarmstay
La Crociona and Villa Marcigliana
Agriturismo Frallarenza, near Orvieto
Italy Farmstay in Abruzzo
ItalyFarmstay, between Rome and Naples.
Italy Farmstay is a unique agriturismo near Abruzzo Nationalpark between Rome and Naples. I've spent two weeks there and it definitely won't be my last visit.
The farm is surrounded by mountains and the area is very beautiful. A stay here offers both tranquility and the possibility to do great activities, like hiking, Italian classes or even visiting the local goat shepherd and watch him make cheese.
The family that runs the place are very open, warm and genuinely interested in their guests. Maria makes excellent pizzas and Guiseppe will talk to you in Italian all day and encourage you to eat the delicious fruits from the garden. Antonello, the sun, is the great organiser of the place and he will do everything to make your stay enjoyable. He often has ideas for little trips in the local area or an outdoor pickic (with yummi pizza's and salads fresh from the garden).
So this is the place to go, if you wan't to experience the Italian countryside and feel grat Italian hospitality.
You can visit their website at www.italyfarmstay.com
Agriturismo Metina
diQuercecchio
Frallarenza Near Orvieto
LEVANTO- Cinque Terre
If you would like to learn about typical Ligurian cooking, Grazia will arrange a morning class with the sweet and delightful Miriam, owner of the Creuza de Ma restaurant. Miriam’s béchamel lasagna is to die for, a lasagna made with béchamel sauce, homemade noodles, and pesto (born in Liguria), not to mention her delicious appetizers. During the class you will create and cook your lunch at a very affordable price.
We found Erba Persa to be inviting, relaxing and very affordable, we will return! www.erbapersa.it
Montepulciano- LA FALCONARA
Our first choice for Montepulciano was to stay at La Falconara, after reading favorable posts on the graffiti page. When we contacted them for reservations there was no availability. However, the owner Alex, offered through e-mail to help us find another agriturismo similar to his, which he did. He also generously arranged for the booking as the owner of Il Sasso spoke very little English.
Through our e-mail correspondence he suggested that when we arrived in Montepulciano that we come meet him and he would assist us with travel plans in the surrounding areas, and did he ever. We (3 couples) are still in awe of all his assistance in helping us plan our day trips, he shared his travel books, he directed us to his favorite restaurants (even joining us one evening) and included us with his La Falconara guests in a tour of a winery he once owned.
Although we did not stay at La Falcona, we highly recommend what we do know about it, and that is the owner Alex Palenzona is a wealth of information, he is generous with his time and knowledge, his location is perfectly situated to view the Tuscan landscape from a chaise lounge at poolside as well as from the rooms, and he is just 3 km outside of Montepulciano, a jewel of a town. Plan to spend at least a ½ day meandering the alleyways of the old town.
The people you meet along the way are just as much of the memories as sun-kissed grapes ready to harvest, the Tuscan patchwork, hilltop towns, and chocolate chocolate gelato.
La Falconara
www.lafalconara.it
Il Sasso www.agriturismoilsasso.toscana.it
A week in the Tuscan countryside-Foresteria Il Giardino
La Crociano near Montalcino
My favorite Agriturismo in Tuscany!
ItalyFarmStay- the beautiful life
Quercecchio Argriturismo
Tuscany B&B
Italy Farm Stay (you should go)
cintoia farmstay horse riding holidays
bed and breakfast near Cortona
Hosts Terry and Marcello have lovingly developed a beautiful couple of hectares, combining several completely restored stone buildings with flowers, fruit trees, an olive grove and walkways winding through knee-high lavender and herbs. Every aspect of the place, from the flowerbeds to the bath fixtures, shows careful, tasteful, attention. It all looks simple, but carried to this level of detail, it is really the result of a staggering amount of work. We had originally intended to tour Tuscany by bicycle. Injuries forced us to give this up at the last minute, so instead, we planned to arrive by train and arrange to be picked up in Arezzo. We called the day before our arrival to confirm this. Terry gently apprised us of the facts of getting around in Tuscany…you will need a car if you are going to do anything besides sit by the (lovely) pool. He then took over, arranged a last minute rental car for us and took care of several other details we hadn’t been smart enough to realize we needed.
When we arrived in Arezzo by train the next day, we strolled across the Plaza Republica to the Avis office, picked up the waiting Fiat and were off to CP. The directions were good enough that we made not a single wrong turn – quite a feat for a couple of Tuscan newcomers. Terry met us at the car park, showed us to our quiet room with immaculate bath and stunning views, and left us to sort ourselves out. Half an hour later, I was sitting under a small grape arbor with a cold beer from the very reasonably priced mini-bar in the room, and meeting Marcello, who had come out pick fresh figs for the evening meal.
Ah, the meal. Twice a week, Terry and Marcello combine to produce a several course dinner, served on the terrace. I don’t think there’s such a thing as poor Italian food, but this was exceptional. At home, we’re done with dinner in fifteen minutes and on to evening chores. At CP, we took two hours, savoring, sipping, conversing with other guests (there were only eight in total). It’s an evening I’ll remember for a long time and a wonderful antidote to the heat and crowds of Florence.
This kind of luxury and attention isn’t free, of course. But in the end, what matters is not price but value. As we ground along, 37,000’ over the Atlantic, remembering our eight days in Tuscany, my wife wondered aloud “If we just sent our life savings to Terry and Marcello, how long do you think we could stay?”
Alle Camelie Tuscan Villa B&B +
Volterra: Places to Stay
Tuscany agriturismo
Italy Farm Stay, Addendum to review
Agriturismo Below San Gimignano
The bedrooms were very comfortable, about as Tuscan as you could want, and the kids enjoyed a dip in the pool. Breakfast was provided...cornetti, meats, cheese, and all the Nutella you could want. And a fifteen minute walk takes you right into San Gimignano, avoiding the parking frenzy.
We hunted around for awhile attempting to locate the Coop supermercato in order to put together a picnic lunch on the terrace, but Rick's directions were a bit vague and the place itself is well-disguised. It IS off the street he mentions...but good luck finding it.
We'd definitely come back--it's a great (and central) jumping off point for Siena, Firenze, Volterra, Castellina, etc. Thanks to Carla and Francesco for an enjoyable stay.
Italy Farm Stay
I didn't give the overall experience an excellent rating simply because I never do. It tends to create unrealistic expectations in the reader, which often leads to dissapointment. However, for reasons that may be more personal than general, I found this visit to be exquistely perfect for me at this time in my life.
This is a very authentic experience, and while Antonello, his mother Maria, his father Giuseppe and the volunteers make every effort to provide comfort, interesting activities, educational experiences and home-grown hospitality...it is a family home - not a resort. If you are looking to be pampered and catered to and treated like a tourist instead of a visitor, you might want to check out something a little more conventional.
Our room was spacious and spotless and cool enough even though there was no AC (which made me very happy...I hate AC and was glad to get away from the over-conditioned, frigid air that dominates most buildings in the States). We had reliable hot water every day for our shower, the meals that Maria made each night were superb, the range of activities available to us was more than adequate (we thought we might get bored being there for six whole days, but found a perfect balance between time spent on activities and time spent leisurely enjoying the serenity at the farm). At the farm, I slept soundly through each night, which is something that hasn't happened to me in years. Once back in Rome it was like a switch got flicked and I was back to the usual tossing and turning that I've become used to. Not sure what to attribute this to, but it really was amazing. We spent the hotter part of the afternoons lounging on the large patio, overlooking the fields filled with all the fresh vegetables and fruits that we snacked on each day and enjoyed for dinner each night.
The highlight for me was probably the four and a half hour hike to a meadow on top of a mountain, where we cooked wonderfully fresh, flavorful food over a fire, and then slept under a full moon in our sleeping bags.
Other activites included meeting my dinner (my sister went vegetarian once she realized that the animals on the farm weren't just for cute photo ops and petting, but I felt it was important to witness what was involved if I was going to eat it), a hike to a very old castle which we were able to crawl around in and on, horseback riding, sitting in the piazza in Sora drinking lemoncello and watching the locals enjoy themselves, a trip to an abandoned village and a dip in the very cold but very clear and pretty waters of a nearby lake.
We really enjoyed listening to Antonello's stories about things local and far away, and both his mother and father were very generous and charming.
Both my sister and I concluded that we would definitely like to come back to this farm again someday...
Tasty Tuscany - between Pisa and Florence
Imagine a typical day. Breakfast at 8:30, 9:30 into the Mercedes van for a trip with Paulo. An insider tour of an ancient monastery? Truffle hunting? A visit to a local potter - what is your pleasure?
Back for a sumptuous lunch under the wisteria and maybe a glass of wine, or two. Afternoon can be spent by the pool, hiking ancient trails, getting a massage or taking a nap in the cypress grove! At 5:00 pm, Patrizia takes you into her farm-size kitchen. Armed with your chopping board, knife, apron and wine glass, you are led through the preparation of the evening meal, featuring the freshest of ingredients (many from their well tended organic garden). Don't like to chop? Relax and sip your wine - this is a holiday. No one works if they don't want to!
The meal is shared around a big table, complete with stories, wine and vin santo. You may meet people from around the world who share your love of good food and beauty. Of, if you booked the place with friends (as we did), you can share moments of friendship that will be talked about for years to come.
Lots of places promise an authentic Italian "farmhouse" experience - but this place delivers. And the all-inclusive pricing guarantees a stress-free vacation. You will love it!
Agriturismo Metina
Here is another tip to those researching Tuscan agritourismos...it's not always clear that the establishment is VERY remote. As in, "drive for several miles on a very rough narrow dirt road until you're convinced you took a wrong turn somewhere" and then you see the sign for the agritourismo. This didn't happen to us specifically, but I came across an agritourismo I had contacted about renting while on such a "should have rented a Range Rover" journey. These places are probably just fine if not preferable for some people, but I'm sure many people would not be happy to find out that "a few kilometers from the pretty city of ..." actually resembles something more like keeping up with Hemingway as he tracks a water buffalo.
Tuscany agriturismo
La Crociona has beautiful apartments in the heart of Brunello country. The website http://www.lacrociona.com/ is a little sparse on pictures but the apartments are lovely. This year I rented two apartments ‘A’ the two bedroom and ‘B’ the studio. There is an outside door then a small hallway with separate entrances for ‘A’ and ‘B’. This allowed us to keep the outside door closed and open the doors to each apartment giving us a lot more room for five people. My wife and I had a bedroom in apartment ‘A’ and our two granddaughters had the other bedroom. My sister-in-law had the studio. We all congregated in the two bedroom apartment and there was plenty of room to eat and hangout but having the second bathroom available with four girls was a help.
All the beds were comfortable and there was enough furniture for five in the two bedroom apartment. There were enough dishes and cookware in apartment ‘A’ for the five of us. The studio had a small kitchen and dishes and cookware but we never used it.
There is a pool but it was too early in the season for it to be open. We did use the hot tub. My granddaughters thought the hot tub was fantastic. We used the hot tub after dinner so it was dark and cold and the steam frosted the windows. The heat from the hot tub made it warm inside the enclosure but it was very cold for the 100 feet I had to walk back to the apartment.
The new wine cellar is very large and furnished with 17th century French furniture. My wife and sister-in-law were very impressed with the décor. Personally I thought the wine was the best part.
The location of La Crociona is one of its best features. Less than three kilometers from Montalcino you can walk to the town in twenty minutes or drive in three minutes. There are plenty of places to visit that are easy short drives. Having a very good restaurant (La Crocina) just a 100 meters from the apartment is great. You can also walk to Fattoria dei Barbi which is the next farm, for wine tasting or dinner. Sant’Antimo is about a five minute drive or an hour hike down the road.
I have stayed at La Crociona many times because I love the area and I am treated so well by the family. When I get to La Crociona it seems like home. I highly recommend it to everyone. At 100 euro a day (or less for the one bedroom apartments) I think this is a great value.
Agriturismo near Orvieto
Cretaiole Agriturismo review
Il Poggiolo Bed and Breakfast in Florence
La Casina di Castello
Italy Farm Stay
Rustic Farm setting overlooking Florence
Agritursimos in Tuscany
We can not say enough about Il Nido di Castello in Castelmuzio - Il Nido is located only five minutes drive from Pienza and very close to
where our hostess lived. It was recently restored and comprises an open plan studio apartment with cozy kitchen, dining area, four-poster bed, bathroom with large shower. The back door lead us to a small private
garden.
When we arrived, the host brought us to the apartment to show us around - we found a full breakfast basket and a sample of their olive oil and wine.
You do need a car to visit the beautiful surroundings, the charming towns and villages around and
to get a real taste of the Tuscan country-side.
The location of "Il Nido" also makes it easy to make day-trips to many
wine-producing towns like Montalcino (30 minutes drive) and Montepulciano (20 minutes drive) along with famous
destinations, Siena (45 min).
We were allowed to purchase the farm products (pecorino cheese, fresh eggs, raw ham, grappa, Vin Santo...) and to
get all the same personal assistance that they give to their guests of Agritursimo Cretaiole:
Our hostess, Isabella was quite
fluent in English and a veritable font of local information! She helped us to experience Tuscany as the locals see it.
Included in the apartment was a
guidebook written by Isabella (in English) offering information
on restaurants, museums, suggested itineraries, and other information you most likely won't find anywhere else.
As a guest of their place, they offered a three hour guided tour of Siena with a local professional
guide; the host, Carolos, is a professional oil taster and gave us an olive oil tasting evening not to ever forget!; and my personal favorit was the "pici" (pasta)cooking class followed by a tasting with the
fabulous meat ragù of Liliana in a traditional Tuscan family-dinner!
The family had purchased to preserve on their property a Hermitage that. Originally an Etruscan tomb, it was later used as a hermitage by monks in the Middle Ages. What history at our fingertips!
We had dinner with a local chef, toured and had lunch on an organic farm that is self sustaining - the most amazing meal we have EVER had!
The sceneary was so amazing - you can sit on a lounge chair at the farm and look out at Val D'orcia all day long if you just need a break.
We can not say enough about our stay here. We can not wait to bring our children back in the very near future!
Italyfarmstay
It is located near the Abruzzi National Park and we, using the farm as a base, visited the surrounding towns of Isola Del Liri, Arpino, Pescosolido, Cassino, to name a few, with great views, sights [crusader forts, abbeys, lakes] and excellent restaurants. The area is known for truffles and we had numerous dishes at very reasonable pricing (large bruchetta with truffles 2 E, spaghetti/linguine con vongole 4 E; scallopine limon 4 E). We also visited the Abbey of Monte Cassino and the Cassino Historical Museum, the latter providing a detailed overview with guide of the WWII battlefield.
A great relaxing stay, great host and easy to get to.
www.italyfarmstay.com I recommend this family run establishment to anyone who is willing to take a detour from the well trodden tourist path to a wild nook of the Italian countryside. I felt very much at home during my four night stay due to the warm hospitality the family exudes. The accommodations are clean, spacious, and better yet affordable for the budget traveler. The farm offers land to be explored, where one can meander along the paths and stumble upon grapevines, and olive, walnut, cherry, plum, fig and pomegranate trees. The farm is nestled in the mountainside, where many outdoor activities are close at hand. The farm's host, Antonello, is generous, giving of his time and transportation, to be sure activities such as trail hiking, horse riding, paragliding, and a visit to the cheese-making shepherd are within the grasp of enjoyment. My favorite was the early a.m. cheese making. We watched as the shepherd milked the goats and sheep, while the wife build a fire for heating the milk. Trying to escape the bite of the morning air, we hovered close to the fire, sampling the freshly handmade cheese with bread and homemade olive oil, and the remaining delicious whey.
Foresteria
Be aware-Agriturismo Fattoria di Vibio
Casa Cernano – Chianti – Tuscany
We were so rested at Casa Cernano that we decided to turn Roma into a day trip and stay another night. We drove to Orvieto, took the train into Roma, toured our target spots in Roma via metro, cab, and foot. Then we returned to Catelnuovo Berardegna for a late dinner and a great nights rest!
As much as we wanted to keep this our own "Back Door" a secret, we just couldn't keep this gem to ourselves! We hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
http://www.casa-cernano.com
italyfarmstay.com
Agriturismo in Tuscany near Florence
Agriturismo Cretaiole
Since last year, the Moricciani family has made improvements on what we thought last year was perfection. Our studio apartment, Il Pollaio, was newly equipped with a brand new microwave (which we used every day!) and toaster. A large four-drawer antique dresser was added, which made it possible to completely move out of our luggage and into the furniture.
Huge fluffy terrycloth towels and exquisite, fine-gauge sheets, and cute new dishes were a wonderful surprise. Outside we found the brand new Emu lawn furniture to be both attractive and very comfortable. In fact, we all liked the Emu brand so much, we are going to look for it in the States for our own backyard.
The personal assistance from Isabella was perfect, as always—and from the entire family, too. Again, she gave us a cell phone to use during our entire stay—all we had to do was purchase time at the local bookstore in Pienza whenever the phone needed replenishing.
If you are considering getting married in Tuscany—consider Cretaiole as the venue. Our friends from Colorado did just that during one of the weeks we four stayed at Cretaiole this year! My husband, who is a minister, married them on the lawn at the edge of the hilltop, where they had the biggest, panoramic vista of the Val d’Orcia including Pienza, Radicofani, and Mount Amiata. Unbeknownst to us, the other guests were watching the ceremony, and then gathered large handfuls of rose petals from the many climbing rose bushes on the property, and tossed them up in the air to fall upon the newly married couple. Isabella arranged for a private dinner for the four of us, which was served on the covered veranda. Sylvia, is a marvelous cook who prepared a four-course, Tuscan meal that was absolutely delicious. We provided the wines, which in this area are bountiful and some of the world’s best! Isabella, her son, and some of the guests served as photographers during the ceremony. We have beautiful, to-die-for photos that will be forever special to our friends as reminders of their incomparable wedding day at Cretaiole.
With enough lead time, someone wanting to bring up to 30 friends and family to Cretaiole for a wedding could do so—completely filling the farmhouse. Wow, what a fun event that would be! The same would be true for a family reunion. However, Cretaiole is becoming so popular, that for the popular travel months, this should be planned a year in advance.
While we were there this year, we met other guests from Malaysia, Canada, France, South Africa, and Germany. This is always a treat—to get to know people from other countries and cultures. The size of the farmhouse limits the number of people who can stay there, and the large size of the property makes it possible to find your own spot for reading, journaling, or dreaming by yourself. We never felt pressured in any way whatsoever to take part in the activities provided—either the ones that are included in the base rental charge, or those that are made available for a fee. It was truly do what you want, and only what you want. One reason for this is that the Moricciani family does not add any service fee—they pass along the cost of the activities directly to the guests without any sort of commission for themselves. This keeps the prices low as well.
The wine of Cretaiole—Orcia DOC—was particularly good this year! The meats, cheeses, and vin santo served at the pici dinner were delicious as always.
We have already made our reservations for another three weeks next year. What better recommendation can I give than to say we want a third long-term stay at Cretaiole—our “Italian home-away-from-home.” We are medium-budget travelers—and find the value of apartment and services of Cretaiole to be extremely high. We feel we get far more than we pay for—especially when compared to other alternatives.
Italian agriturismos
Long term
Italyfarmstay
Fresh from a big North American city, I was immediately mesmerized by the Italian country landscape as I set foot on Antonello’s farm. Fruit trees of all varieties grow in wild abundance here – orange, lemon, cherry, plum, pear, apple, peach, persimmon, pomegranate, and of course, fig. Sweet scents of jasmine invade your senses, while the sounds of distant church bells provide a perfect background to the symphony of horse bells, and the music of other farm animals.
I had a wonderful breakfast drinking fresh goat’s milk, and a just-laid egg. Wild asparagus and baby artichoke fresh-picked by Guiseppie (Antonello’s father) followed by a few mulberries and wild strawberries as I strolled through the farm. At other times, I would savor cheese just made by a shepherd, along with homemade bread from a neighbor and wine that Maria (Antonello’s mother) made.
I took long walks everywhere, attracted by the beauty of the mountains dotted with country homes, patches of olive groves, vegetable gardens, grapevines, and wheat fields. Sheep and goats grazed on the meadow, and here and there elder ladies in country clothes with aprons around their waist meandered about.
Italy Farm Stay is not just an organic farm. To me this is the traditional country life at its finest – a lifestyle that seems long-forgotten. Simple yet magical. I look forward to going back!
I still remember vividly Guiseppie smiling, “Slow down, don’t worry. Tomorrow’s another day.”
Bella Agriturismo
Italy Farm Stay
Il Poggiolo, Tuscany
Agriturismo Cretaiole
Great Italian Agriturismo-Umbria
Italian Agriturismo
agriturismo pomonte near orvieto
Farmhouse in Volterra (Pisa)
Unused Credit for Agriturismo Cretaiole
Italy Farm Stay Near Sora
This working organic agriturismo with olive and fruit trees and a wide variety of animals (including two friendly dogs) is just outside the larger town of Sora, as well as several small and scenic hill towns. While the location alone is fantastic, wonderful Antonello and his family really make this a memorable place to visit.
The farm is a quiet world apart from the tourist sites and crowds. Sora has a great market day on Thursdays, when merchants and farmers line its downtown streets. But there's so much to do on and near the farm, including a hike on the farm or in the national park, horseback riding, language and pasta-making lessons from Maria, touring historic monasteries, frequent sampling of the farm's wine, produce, and olive oil, and a visit to the local cheese-making shepherd. The region is known for its truffle production and one evening we visited a local restaurant - virtually everything on the menu featured truffles, yet it was the great food bargain of the trip. We also greatly enjoyed our dinner and breakfasts at the family table, and again, almost everything was produced on the farm.
Our kids (ages 4 and 8) absolutely loved it, but it's a great place for anyone to visit. There's surely enough to see and do to stay a week or more. It caters to English-speaking travelers and Antonello has spent time in the United States. What a wonderful place...we hope to visit again someday!
www.italyfarmstay.com
Agriturismos in the Vento region
Unused Credit for Agriturismo Cretaiole
Agritourismo in the heart of Chianti
Agriturismo
John Martin <email>
Dallas-Albuquerque, TX-NM USA 05/07/2008
Hard time deciding which agriturismo in which town to stay in? We randomly selected a little place called PIOMBAIA in Montalcino. Can't begin to explain how wonderful the experience was. I tear up even thinking about it a year later. The family was so generous and sweet. Mom, dad, son, grandma. We even made friends with Perla the dog! I have vowed to return before Lida the grandmother (their winery is named after her) is too old. piombaia.it or +39 0577/847197
Ginny <email>
Atlanta, GA USA 04/30/2008
In March 2008, 3 sisters, myself included stayed in Il Poggiolo, just outside Florence. Location couldn't have been more perfect, host was perfect, apartment was perfect. Bus came right out front, easy to navigate to Florence, AND in the Tuscan countryside.
One Tip on Booking Here-You will get the best rate by booking with Graziella direct. Web site is http://www.il-poggiolo.it or email her at info@il-poggiolo.it.
Becky
Monticello, AR USA 04/29/2008
Having just returned from Tuscany I can recommend two fine places to stay: La Falconara, mentioned numerous times on this board, deserves all its compliments. Alex, the owner, is a wonderful authority on the area and is invaluable deciding on each day's itinerary. With advance notice he can be prevailed upon to prepare Tuscan food for his guests. He is not only a good cook, but if there is room in the kitchen you can visit with him while he cooks and get a cooking lesson as well! See www.lafalconara.it.
David Morris
Berkeley, CA USA 04/28/2008
We spent two weeks in April at Cretaiole and were charmed by its beautiful location and fantastic owners / hosts. Between Pienza and San Quirico d'Orcia, Cretaiole provides great views of the picturesque countryside from a well-maintained 14th century (I think) Tuscan farmhouse. The Val d'Orcia is an amazing area within Toscana, and we were privileged to get to know the place and the people a little better during our stay there, thanks in large part to our hostess, Isabella, and the rest of her family.
Frank <email>
Palm Bay, FL USA 04/28/2008
Stayed at Italy Farm Stay recently while travelling through Italy.It's a self sustaining, organic, family run farm right at the edge of Abruzzo National park (between Rome and Naples). It was a beautiful and much need break from the big city bustle and sight seeing. Went horseback riding in the park, visited a local shepherd and cheese maker, and ate some wonderfuly simple and delicious Italian fare, grown, raised and prepared right on the farm! For me that was the best part. Really seeing and understanding where our food comes from was such an important and unique experience for me. Definately worth the stop! this is their website: www.italyfarmstay.com
Elise Keller <email>
Windsor, ON Canada 04/25/2008
Casa Portagiolia is the best Bed and Breakfast ever! Casa is located in a breath taking Valley di Chio of Italy near Cortona, Castiglion Fiorentino and not far from Florence. It is surrounded by mountains all around and owned by Terry and Marcello. The property is immaculate with olives groves, a well manicured yard with gorgeous flowers and a very inviting swimming pool area. The rooms are exquisitely equipped with the best of everything, including the beds and linens.
Sally Roper
Lincoln, NE USA 04/22/2008
My wife and I stayed one night at La Crociona, a Brunello wine estate outside of Montalcino in mid-March 2008. Barbara and Roberto were wonderful, kind, helpful and friendly. We arrived somewhat later than planned and well after dark. However, with Rick Steve's directions we had no problem finding La Crociona. After some slight confusion due to our late arrival we were shown to a very nice one bedroom apartment with a kitchen and they directed us to a restaurant within a few hundred yards where we had a fine meal. The rooms were very clean and spacious. The bathroom was a comfortable size. We paid 70 euros for the night plus heating gas -- which turned out to be less than 5 euros.
Barry Strom <email>
Trumansburg, NY USA 04/20/2008
We stayed at Il Cretaiole this April and thought it was magically beautiful. The light, the flowers, the views of the olive trees and rolling hills to Pienza were just like a dream. Isabella is a warm and welcoming hostess who enjoys sharing her love of this beautiful part of the world to her guests. Her husband Carlo gave us fresh eggs from his chickens for breakfast and discussed local wine philosophy with us. Her father in law, Luciano, bade us farewell on our last night with his own grappa and vin santo. We were welcomed with wine and olive oil from the family farm, with a great book full of recommendations for local sights and restaurants, and a garden to pick fresh greens from, for our salads. The building is classic Tuscan stone, we had a nice kitchen in a large wood cabinet, a big sunny bathroom. The courtyard is full of flowers, the birds sing, the pheasants call, the sun sets over the olive trees. You fall asleep to a crackling fire after a meal of handmade pasta Isabella taught you how to make. We rented a tandem bike and rode right from the inn to untouched medieval hilltop towns. We soaked in nearby hot springs. The other people we met there, from old to young, were wonderfully happy and interesting. This was a fantastic place to stay.
Phyllis Kulmatiski <email>
Scotia, NY USA 04/17/2008
Just returned from our second trip to Agriturismo Cretaiole near Pienza in Tuscany and am pleased to report that it was just as magical as last year's visit (please see last year's posting). The only difference was that Isabella Moricciani, the spitfire who brings it all together at Cretaiole, had just had a little bambino, Filippo, four weeks prior. Nevertheless, Isabella was intent on providing us with her famed pici (pasta) making class, as usual the highlight of our visit.
Roy Leonard <email>
Fredericksburg, VA USA 04/10/2008
We stayed at a wonderful farmhouse just outside of Florence - www.il-poggiolo.it/index_en.html. Graziella picked us up at the train station when we arrived and made sure we had all of the information that we needed for our activities each day. It was so peaceful and beautiful and her animals were so friendly and sweet - my kids were in heaven. In most cases, if you can book directly with the owners rather than going through the agency, you will get a much better price. We booked directly through her and received a great deal - so be sure to contact her directly.
Julie <email>
Seattle, WA USA 04/09/2008
Our family of 5 (3 girls, 7, 5 and nearly 3) stayed for 5 mostly-rainy days at Antonello's Italyfarmstay.com. I gather from reading posts that some agriturismos are not kid-friendly. That is not the case here. My kids were gleefully riding ponies, holding baby goats and petting dogs within minutes of our arrival. This family farm is set up above the Liri River valley. The views, whether down into the valley over the town of Sora or up above to the village perched above and the Appenine peaks beyond are very good. You can either relax to these views in one of the hammocks, or get out and do some hiking, horse back riding, or bicycling. Sora is not at all a tourist town, which for me is a high compliment. Instead, it retains the incredible charm of a town where people live lives that doesn't include selling cheap snow globes and other tschotschkes to tourists. Market day on Thursday is not to be missed and takes over the entire town. The Liri river runs right through the town and a castle on a hill/mtn above the town, clearly seen from the farm, will mock you until you make the climb up for a visit. A 50 km drive to the south brings you to the towns of Cassino and San Pietro Infine, scenes of some of the most brutal fighting of WWII, which is still poignantly evident and worth a day trip (see Rick Atkinson's recent "The Day of Battle.")
John Zilavy <email>
Seattle, WA USA 04/01/2008
Corte Castelletto in Nogorola Rocca (about 8km south of Verona) was wonderful! Excellent breakfast (included) and the front desk staff was superb. They helped my friend figure out how to get her cell phone to work and one, Marcello, kept us entertained the afternoon after I recovered from a migraine and gave us excellent directions to Cittadella in Verona (parking garage there is a nightmare if you have a mid-size or bigger car). The rooms are spacious and clean and non-smoking rooms are available. They also grow olives and produce their own olive oil. It is a former chapter house for a monastery which adds to the character. Very convenient to the autostrada, but not for folks travelling by train. We made it our home base for the first 5 days of our trip as it is convenient to Verona, Brescia and Mantova
Nancy <email>
Taylor, TX USA 03/21/2008
My wife and I just spent five of the best days in Montepulciano staying with Alex and Ingrid at La Falconara. I contacted them after reading a previous post on this forum. I cannot begin put into words what a wonderful place Alex has. His breadth of knowledge not only of Italy and the area, but of the world is incredable. It was our first time driving in Europe, and thanks to Alex's directions we did not get lost once. The property is beautiful and peaceful and quiet. We were his first guests of the season so we had the entire place to ourselves. The apartment we stayed in was just perfect. Typical Tuscany. Just perfect. The weather was a little cool with some rain, but it was March so we were expecting it. It was one of the most beautiful places I have ever been, and I saw it in the off season! I can't wait to go back when the weather is good! We cannot say enough good things about La Falconara. It is the perfect place. Alex and Ingrid will make you feel so welcome, you will feel like you are coming home. We loved every second and cannot wait to return.
www.lafalconara.it
Nicholas Harbaugh
St Louis , MO USA 03/19/2008
We stayed at Poggiacolle in San Gimignano for the second time in one year because we loved it and had to come back ASAP! Stefano was so hospitable! The Farmhouse is clean and neatly decorated and just minutes from the hill town of San Gimignano. We had access to a kitchen and fireplace and each room has it's own bathroom. They offer a wonderful breakfast with your stay if you desire. Stefano arranged for us to have a cooking class and gave us lots of direction as to what to do while in the area. The area is so beautiful and the views from all the windows is breathtaking! I recommend everyone stay at Poggiacolle while in Tuscany!
Sandi <email>
Murrieta, Ca USA 03/19/2008
We spent two weeks last fall at Tenuta San Carlo and were delighted by the experience. The per day cost was much less than a hotel with similar amenities. We were a short bike ride through a forest of umbrella pines to the beach, one km from Principina del Mare and just 13 kms from Castiglione della Pescaia, a terrific, beautiful port town. Grosseto is a large nearby city, but driving there is an ordeal, not only because of the driving style of the locals but because there are virtually no street signs. By the time we left I knew my way around but only because of trial and error. I learned to drive in the local style, I left no space between my car and the others on the road and still ran over no pedestrians. Every day we drove to a Tuscan town and returned to "the ranch". We had an apartment with a small kitchen so I was able to go to the market in Castiglione della Pescaia or Grosseto and then cook meals while looking across fields or forests. TSC is owned by an American family but for most of the time we dealt with Titziano, the farm manager, who spoke little English. We were able to communicate adequately with Titziano, and the horses were fluent in apple and carrot. There is a pig there with a great personality. (I have beau coup photos if anyone is interested.)
Joe Martinec <email>
Cedar Creek , TX USA 03/14/2008
I recently visited a wonderful bed and breakfast just outside of Sora Italy. This was a charming little place run by a guy named Antinello who has big dreams and wants to share some of the beauty from the town he grew up in. It is located close to Sora and on the edge of Abruzzi National Park.
Leslie <email>
Jupiter, FL USA 03/05/2008
We recently came back from a wonderful stay at Agriturismo Marciano, just outside the ancient wall of the old center of Siena .
The room we stayed in was comfortable,clean, recently renovated and with a beautiful sight on the Gothic- Romanic Duomo of Siena .
The location was an ancient mansion (WVIII century), just a pleasant 30 minute walk to the old center of Siena.
Our hosts, Christian and Nadia, were very welcoming and very helpful with answering our questions about getting around the area or restaurant suggestions. Their website is www.agriturismomarciano.it
Marciano was the highlight of our tour. A great experience for and very reasonably priced!
John M.
NY USA 02/17/2008
My friends and I recently visited Tenuta San Carlo (outside of Grosseto), where over a weekend we managed to ride horses through a rustic forest, along an idyllic beach, and drink wine in the grass while reading the local literature. A change of pace from the typical high-maintenance ranch, we enjoyed the independence and self-reliance Tenuta San Carlo afforded us. You should visit us here, since I will try and return regularly.
Geoff Domoracki
Chicago, IL USA 02/14/2008
My husband and I stayed a week at the lovely Agriturismo Frallarenza as a part of our Italian honeymoon and consider our visit there to be one of the major highlights of an incredible trip. We stayed in the small apartment, which actually felt rather spacious for two people and included a nice kitchen to prepare meals and enjoy the bounty of Italian food and wine that we sampled.
J Laurent
Oakland,, CA USA 01/28/2008
My week at Cretaiole, in the Toscana (Tuscany) region, near Pienza was one of the most magical weeks I've ever had. You see a place on tv, and you read about it in books, but until you really get there, and see the sites, eat the food, smell the smells, and meet the people, you don’t really know what the area is about. I had done all the research before going to Italy. Now, having gone, I know I picked the best place in all of, not only in Tuscany, but in the Val D'Orcia region, in choosing Cretaiole.
Chris Ellis <email>
Tulsa, Ok USA 01/15/2008
I recently redocumented my trip to Italy Farm Stay for the Online portion of Good magazine, in a user submitted section. I wanted to share this with everyone! I travelled to the Farm stay back in 2006, but the experience was truly memorable! http://www.goodmagazine.com/section/Projects/project_007_italian_cheese_making
Erika Rydberg <email>
Boston, MA USA 01/12/2008
The agro La Cassette... Sorry Rick you didnt do this place justice! The family who runs it was nothing short of awesome! I ended up drinking port, after dinner, with the men which ended up in a game of Bocce in the back court until the wee hours of the morning. If you like being out in the country with scenery and solitude and great hosts... La Cassette is high on my recommendation list!
Tom <email>
Tacoma, WA USA 12/13/2007
Just to say we had a wonderful time here. Wonderful people, caring and helpful. The photos and the movie on the website (www.tuscanbreaks.com)are good, but the reality is much better.
Sue and Greg.
Stratford - Upon - Avon, UK 11/29/2007
This Agriturismo is about 2 km from San Gimignano. We had a wonderful stay here in October and recommend it highly. We stayed in an apartment with a fireplace in the kitchen, a large bedroom, large bath and there were beautiful views from every point of the property. There is a swimming pool, use of the large brick grill and portable ones on the property. Plenty of wood for grilling and for the fireplace. Stefano Bartali is warm and helpful with local restaurant reccomendations. We would definitely stay here again. Easy to get to many of the great Tuscan towns from here.
Los Angeles, CA USA 11/19/2007
We stayed here for 4 nights in October. The place was beautiful and we were the only two people booked for that week. It's about 1.5 km from the tiny town of Amelia. If you want total peace and quiet this is wonderful. We had a car and it was easy to get to many wonderful Umbrian towns from here. The family who owns this place is very nice and offered many suggestions and booklets/maps of Umbria. The kitchen was stocked with yogurts, eggs, pancetta, milk, etc., for making your own breakfasts. The bathroom was very large, the bed was extremely comfortable. (The town of Narni is not too far away and we had one of the best meals at Il Gattamelata - the Gnocchetti with duck was amazing.)
Los Angeles, CA USA 11/19/2007
We recently stayed at LePoggiolo in Tuscany. It is near the town of Monsumano terme and Lisa Barsi, the host was extremly friendly and the food was fantastic. The rate for one bedroom with attached bath was 54euros which included breakfast.
frank mulkern <email>
payson, az USA 11/16/2007
After spending two weeks on this farm, I feel completely fulfilled, in the way only a travaler can understand. Everything about this place captured me in a different way. The location was stunning. The food was absolutely incredible (I think I may have gained a pound or two, but I do not regret it, not for a moment!) The accomidations were lovely. The animals, the activites, and the list goes on...However, I think the one thing that impacted me the most was the people I met here. The family that runs this place is truly incredible. I felt so welcomed and everyday was learning something new. Whether it was itlian lessons from Guiseppe while picking olives in the italian sun or attempting to make real italian pasta with Maria. When the time came for me to leave, I did not want to. The life that they live and so earnestly wanted to share with me is something I will never forget. If you have the chance to come here, do. It is not for everyone, but if you feel like an adventure or just a holiday, this place is perfect. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.
This is the website: www.italyfarmstay.com
Sophia Jensen <email>
Ashland, OR USA 11/14/2007
My sister and me, along with our two adult daughters, just returned home from our annual "driving Italy crazy" vacation. We stayed two nights at La Crociona, a Brunello wine estate outside of Montalcino, after reading a very favorable posting on this site. Barbara and Roberto (children of the owners) were wonderful and kind. We found their grappa flavored with rose petels to be even more delicious than their Brunello. We were saddened that we were never able to tour their wine cellars. Their apartments are upstairs which is a good thing for those of you with physical handicaps to know prior to booking and, parking is several hundred feet away in a very dark area at night. Make sure you bring a flashlight. We had Apartment "A", which had two bedrooms with wonderful cozy beds, a living/dining area, and a small kitchen area. We paid 240 Euro's (and it was off season!) for the two nights plus an additional 8 Euro's for heat (which, thank goodness, we only turned on low at shower times or it would have exceeded the per night room charge!) The shower head needs to be replaced and no matter how very careful we were, the floor flooded with each shower. We used the kitchen and cooked dinner one night as the restaurant on their property had the worst food/service and rudest waiter anywhere ever in Italy. Not one of our dishes was what we ordered. Mixed seafood pasta in a red sauce turned out to be a very strong smelling, spoiled, squid-only, purple concoction that was stiff and inedible. Shrimp and mussels with pasta came without the mussels. . . It took 30 minutes to receive our check after we requested it.
Be aware that (according to a typed list awaiting you on the table in the apartment) you also must strip the beds, take the trash to the dumpster, and clean the apartment prior to checking out. This was a first in all of our travels! Maybe the three nights we stayed at Villa Marcigliana prior to this stay spoiled us? I would highly recommend the Villa if you are staying in the area a very short distance out of Rome. It is absolutely beautiful and has three ground-level apartments. Our's was a very large imaculate apartment with two bedrooms, a living room, large kitchen (fully equipted including a microwave and expresso maker!), large bathroom, and dining area, INCLUDING heat for 100 Euro's per night (more during high seasons). Our lovely hostess, Maria, even made us a beautiful, unexpected, fruit tart for breakfast that was delicious. There are several restaurants and a grocery store close by. Their web site: www.villamarcigliana.com
Wendy
FL USA 11/13/2007
My husband,myself and friends from Germany recently spent several wonderful days at Agriturismo Frallarenza. We stayed in the Big Apartment,, as they called it where Serena met us with a smile and baked goodies. The apartment was very inviting and comfortable, decorated with Serena's special touch. Francesco was always helpful when it came time to plan each day's trip and Serena recommended a restaurant which turned out to be our favorite in all of Italy. We went back 3 nights in a row! The agriturismo is centrally located to most of the hilltowns which was great! We were able to take in all of the hilltowns I wanted to see. Feel free to e-mail with any questions. Their website is agriturismo.it/Frallarenza/enindex.asp
Becky <email>
IN USA 11/06/2007
We had a wonderful time at Italy Farmstay in Abruuzo, near Sora. The whole family was so warm and welcoming, especially to our 2 year old, it was great to see a real working farm and for our daughter to experience the animals everyday. She fell in love with Conchetta the donkey. We ahd dinner made by Maria at the farm and wished we had more time to cook with her ourselves, this was truly a once in a lifetime experience! The rooms were absoultely beautiful, one of the best we ahd on our trip. The whole place was so unique and quaint! Highly recommend it!
Chantal Ryan <email>
Essex Junction, VT USA 11/03/2007
Tranquility, organic food and great Italian hospitality
Line <email>
Copenhagen, USA 10/18/2007
?Agrituristica Metina (Acquaviva) Montepulciano
We arrived late - a wonderful velvet darkness punctuated by soft bird song (yes, they sing quietly
all night in Tuscany), the scent of honeysuckle and sweet broom, and the flicker of fireflies greeted us.
Morning breaks ... through the windows you are delighted by calendar cover views of the
beautiful Valdichiana on one side, and a rambling hillside of olive trees on the other.
Our two-bedroom, fully-equipped suite was just what we needed for our "home away from
home". We breakfasted in the garden, then toured wonderful little towns nearby and ate our
lunches out. As it was June, and for the most part 40C (around 100F), the pool at Metina was
our salvation at the end of a touring day.
Dinner usually found us under a venerable old tree in the garden at Metina, enjoying simple
Italian fare of pasta and incredible local cheeses (try the Grana Padano - you'll never go back to
Parmesan) picked up at the grocery store nearby.
Evening was usually the time we met up with Monica, our hostess at this lovely abode. She is
an incredible guide for Italy, and other countries where she has lived and travelled. After a day of
fracturing Italian (those wonderful townsfolk did their best to understand what we were trying to
convey), it was a blessing to come back to Metina and share with Monica what we'd seen, and
done, and said -- especially what we had said that made people lift an eyebrow! Being perfectly
trilingual (Italian, English, French), she is a jewel. Her husband, Alberto, also speaks French and
a smattering of English - and what a hard worker. This young couple run this small personal gem
of an Agriturismo (just 4 suites), as well as their own vineyard/winery, with exceptional wines and
Vin Santo ... and their grove of olive trees.
We'd go back in a heartbeat, and can hardly wait to do just that! Check them out at
www.metina.it
M&B Bryson
SSI, B.C. CANADA 10/16/2007
We stayed recently for five days at diQuerceehio and it was great. It was during grape picking and and wine making so we picked a few grapes and watch the family make wine. Matteo was a great host. We had him for a American Italian dinner the last night we stayed. He made arrangements for us at a cooking schol in Siena which also was wonderful. Great swimming pool, ideal apartment and great hospitality. I would strongly recommend to others. Bill
Bill Sjostrom <email>
Loves Park, Il USA 10/14/2007
My wife and I spent 3 fantastic weeks In Italy from the Southern end to Tuscany country. We stayed at 4 different agriturismo (Renovated farms) during our long stay. Each and every one was a different experience. Our only regret was that we didn't stay longer at this special one.
Although of the 4 all welcomed us, Serena and Francesco welcomed us like no others. We were invited into their home for a cooking lesson (No cost), and also the best dinner we had in our stay in Italy. We were also invited for a ceramic lesson given by Serena and a Master (again free). We always felt welcome if we needed anything, or simple directions for our day trips.
Our apartment was also the best of the 4 we stayed at, and very reasonable too. Serena decorated it with all of her special touches, making you feel like you were back home. The only regret was that we didn't make this the longest stay of all. We will be going back in the next 12 to 24 months, and will make this our number one stay.
Orvieto is only minutes away (15 km or 10 miles), and really worth seeing.
If you're going to Italy, make this a sure thing on your Visit. The family gave us that home feeling, and not like we were in a Hotel.
I could go on and on about this stay, but experience this for yourself. http://www.agriturismo.it/Frallarenza/enindex.asp
Bob Christian <email>
Mount Prospect, Illino USA 10/13/2007
Throw open the shutters, feel the breeze, soak in the sun, you are at Erba Persa Agriturismo, a quiet and peaceful retreat. Levanto is just one quick train ride north of Monterosso, situated on a lovely bay, with sandy beaches, swimming and kayaking. A beautiful and rigorous hike from Levanto to Monterosso ( 2 ½ to 3 ½ hrs) begins at the south end of the bay.
We enjoyed three perfect September nights in Levanto with the likeable, humorous and helpful Claudio and Grazia, who both speak English. The rooms are very clean and a generous breakfast was included in the price. Erba Persa is about a 10 minute walk from the train station, but Grazia will pick you up if you call her. Levanto’s central location on the Ligurian coast also makes it easy to visit Portovenere south of the Cinque Terre and Camogli, San Fruttuoso Abbey, Portofino and Santa Margherita, about an hour north, either by train or boat.
Susan Kirk <email>
USA 10/09/2007
We spent four nights in late September in Montepulciano at the renovated farm house of Il Sasso Agriturismo, which was lovely, clean, reasonably priced, and had wonderful views over the Tuscan countryside. Ironically we were directed to Il Sasso by the most helpful and kind Alex Palenzona, owner of La Falconara.
Susan Dixon
Tulsa, OK USA 10/09/2007
We just returned from spending 3 weeks in Europe, and one of the highlights of our trip was staying at the agriturismo Foresteria Il Giardino di Fontarronco outside of Arezzo. We had a group of 25 so we took up the entire villa complex, with the exception of two single bedroom apartments. This was an excellent choice for a group our size. The location was perfect for getting around to all the hillside towns and using the train station in Arezzo. It was maybe a 15-25 minute drive to the train station (depending on time of day). A car is a must in Tuscany for getting around to the small hillside towns, but the train was great for trips to Florence. The villa is located among fruit orchards so there was an abundance of fresh fruits at our fingertips (literally) .... while relaxing at the pool you could walk over and pick a peach ripe from the tree. The agriturismo also produces its own delicious wine and olive oil. It is a very quiet location although we were visiting during their harvest, so some mornings we did hear farm machinery traveling down the dirt road that runs adjacent to the farmhouse. Every morning a van pulls up with delicious baked goods at a very reasonable price. The complex is gorgeous. When looking at their website, I wondered if the photos were realistic ... upon arrival, the grounds and apartments were even better than I could ever have imagined and even better than the photos on the website (www.foresteria.it). Our group wanted to feel immersed in the Tuscan farmhouse lifestyle and this was the perfect place. The apartments are tastefully decorated in a rustic farmhouse manner, each bedroom having its own bathroom. Marian is a delight and was so helpful with reservations, suggestions and she took over the problems we encountered getting several airlines to deliver "lost luggage." The villa offers 2 meals during the week, however, we only had time for one wonderful meal as we were off and about so often. The dinner was delicious in the typical Tuscan style, served with plenty of the villa's own wine. You can also arrange for breakfast and though I personally did not do that, several guests in our group did and commented that it was quite good. Marian can also arrange cooking classes at the villa. There are lots of miles for running or walking, and there are about 6 bicycles on the complex for guests to use. One of the best parts of the whole experience was feeling like it was "home" ... sleeping with the shuttered windows wide open (mosquito netting on the beds included) and waking up to the most gorgeous views outside our windows. Evenings were spent outside on the patio with a bottle of wine, cheese and meats. I would highly recommend the Foresteria for its location and easy access to the A-1, train station, and supermarket without losing its quiet country charm. I just can't say enough about how special our visit was.
Jellzy
San Jose, CA USA 10/07/2007
La Crociana is a wonderful place. You are surrounded by the hills of Tuscany and the beautiful vineyards and olive trees. Take it easy as there are no traffic jams. It is very easy to find. We stayed for 3 nights in September 2007. The owners are extremely nice. They go out of their way to provide a great getaway. Our apartment was great. Just open the windows and breathe in the great tuscan air. Wow! It is good. I recommend to go to town to the COOP and buy some of the local food and wine and have a great meal at home. Located just outside of Montalcino, it is close to several Tuscany towns for daytripping excursions. We loved this place and recommend it to anyone.
David and Peggy Campbell
Johnson City, TN USA 10/07/2007
Don't miss La Palazzina in Radicofani. I recently spent a month in Italy and found a gem of an Agriturismo just South of Siena. The location was wonderful for visiting a number of charming hill towns including Montalcino, Montalpuciano, Pienza, Chianciano, Cortona, Pitigliano and more. The rooms were beautiful, the grounds were very peaceful and the swimming pool had a panoramic view that looked like a masterpiece painting. I have learned that the most important thing about choosing places to stay is the people who welcome you and help you to make the most of your precious time in Italy. Sylvano is the most gracious host you could imagine. His English is excellent, his knowledge of Italy is amazing, and he is happy to help with any questions, directions, tours, activities, and more. Each night, his wife Eliana prepares a delicious Italian dinner, featuring the freshest regional ingredients, wonderful wine, vegetables from the garden - and the super friendly staff makes you feel right at home. Sylvano set up an appt. at a nearby terme (spa) for my sore airplane-fatigued back, helped us ship packages, and had great suggestions every morning for activities like horseback riding, hiking, hill town visits and more. Sylvano, his family and staff all make every guest feel welcome, and of all of the B & Bs and Agriturismos I have stayed in Italy, La Palazzina is the BEST. Website: http://www.fattorialapalazzina.com and the email is info@fattorialapalazzina.com. I am hoping that Rick will put this wonderful Agriturismo in his next book so more people can experience the lovely Tuscan holiday that I did!
Gail <email>
Maui, HI USA 09/30/2007
My friend and I stayed at Italyfarmstay at the end of our whirlwind tour of Italy. We wanted something relaxing before we re-entered our normal hectic lives. The farmstay delivered on our every expectation. We both feel it was one of the best parts of our holiday. The farm offers a charming taste of life in the Italian countryside. It has some of the best accomodations we experienced - large, spacious and clean rooms, a great bathroom, a beautiful house, all for a very reasonable price. The family was lovely extending warm hospitality to all travelers who come to visit their farm. We helped make wine, visited a cheese shepherd, went horseback riding, experienced a refreshing lake swim, and saw an abandoned village. Maria makes wonderful food, Guiseppe is a delightful and knowledgable farmer, and Antonello is a wonderful host who gives personal attention to each of his guests. In addition Antonello speaks English wonderfully and offers Italian language lessons. I felt like part of the family. We laughed a lot and enjoyed ourselves immensely. We extended our stay an additional night because it was such a lovely experience. For a relaxing and authentic taste of Italy, check out Italyfarmstay.com.
Jessica
Portland, OR USA 09/26/2007
We found this agriturismo on Graffiti Wall posted under "Italian Agriturismo" in May, 2007-check it out for a description. We stayed there in July, 2007. It was a great place to stay and Matteo was a great host! We found a bottle of their wine for us in our apartment (Amiata-beautiful view) when we arrived because he had heard that it was our birthdays (my mother had called to wish us happy birthday). Their Rosso wine is very good. He called and made reservations for us at a wonderful restaurant that night. He also helped us to find a hotel and made a reservation for us on Lago di Garda where we travelled to after Tuscany. We'd love to return some day and stay longer. www.quercecchio.it
Deborah Holmes
Comox, BC Canada 09/23/2007
Although technically not an agriturismo, we found Casa Portagioia, in the country outside Castiglioni Fiorentino and 20 minutes from Cortona the perfect location for our Tuscany stay. For our family of four we rented a one bedroom apartment for my husband and I and a separate double room with breakfast service for our young adult children. The rooms were beautiful and the provisioning for the apartment of local foods was ample and of the best quality. Terry's wine cellar had anything you could want and Marcello's cooking was excellent. Amidst the olive grove and vineyard are gardens, with fruit trees,delicious figs, roses and lavendar all lovingly kept and the pool! Crystal clear and the perfect temperature for a hot day. Marcello serves dinner two nights a week. When I think back to my 15 days in Italy, Terry & Marcello and their beautiful Casa Portagioia come to my mind first. The other handful of guests were mostly return visitors, I hope that I may return again too. See their very thoughtful website, www.tuscanbreaks.com.
Janice & Rick
Bend, OR USA 09/21/2007
For those looking for a very unique, authentic, relaxing experience, staying at Antonello's family farm 2 hrs btwn Rome and Napoli is the place for you. I spent only 2 nights and could have stayed a week.
I was amazed by the abundance of fruits- from peaches and figs to grapes and tomatoes, that Giuseppe had growing (and which the family are very generous with). Maria's cooking- breakfast was simple but varied, and delicious, and dinners were similarly authentic and memorable. For the health nuts, everything is organic, for the hikers, you can do a bit of hiking, but for those who want to meditate and relax, this family farm is a great place to be. Kids would get bored, although they can go hang out with the sheep and goats and the adorable donkey.
During my stay, I really felt like I was able to make myself at home. I recommend it to anyone and thank Antonello and his family for all the enjoyment that I had.
Jeff Decker
Los Angeles, CA USA 09/19/2007
Cintoia farmstay (www.fatoriacintoia.it) is really a little gem of a find. We stayed there recently and found the appartments delightful, the horse-riding (complete with authentic italian cowboy guide) FANTASTIC, and the veiw from the pool was incredibile.The location is high up,affording incredible veiws, but you are also close to Florence and two very good restaurants are within walking distance. I couldnt reccomend them higher..especially for horse riders.
Louisa
Perth Australia, WA Australia 09/17/2007
We had a great time in Italy. We heard Puccini opera in Lucca. We saw Botticelli in Florence. We had gelato in the Il Campo of Siena. But the crown jewel of our trip was Casa Portagioia, (www.tuscanbreaks.com) a bed and breakfast in the Tuscan foothills between Arezzo and Cortona. Actually, “bed and breakfast” is an inadequate description – CP (abbreviated henceforth to conserve the world’s supply of vowels) combines aspects of a nature retreat, resort, and luxury hotel. The name itself can be loosely translated to “door into joy” or “portal to peace.”
Ken Scott
Canby , OR USA 09/17/2007
We held my daughters wedding in addition to service as a home base to exploring Tuscany at Alle Camelie. I can tell you it is a wonderful 200 year old Tuscan villa that you will not regret staying at. Olive and grape trees with a pool and a wonderful quietness that will refresh and renew you! Tell Inge that I sent you.
Martin Sorensen <email>
Gresham, OR USA 09/16/2007
Villa Rioddi is located just outside Rick's self-described 'favourite hill town' of Volterra. It is a 15th century coach house that was turned into a small hotel. It has a beautiful view, on a quiet section of road, with a scenic pool. See http://www.hotelvillarioddi.it/hotel-volterra-tuscany.htm. Volterra is best accessed with a car, and you are in shooting distance of San Giamignano, Sienna, and Pisa. Volterra itself is a beautiful place, with lovely sunsets and nice restaurants. Enjoy!
David Altman
Toronto, Ont Canada 09/15/2007
Agriturismo Natura e Salute was a wonderful experience in farm education and living, just an hour south of Florence. Karla and Mauricio warmly tour guests around the family farm, seeing all the operations and provide a warm and delicious setting in the countryside. Rates for 2, 75 euros nightly, including breakfast; dinner of farm raised meats 20 euros and worth it. Located not far from San G., 5 km of well kept gravel road, with pool and excellent accommodations. Go to website!
T.J.
Long Beach, Ca. USA 09/14/2007
The website for Italy Farm Stay is www.italyfarmstay.com. I neglected to mention it in my review below.
Kyrstyn
Washington, DC, DC USA 09/10/2007
We spent three days in Tuscany (21-23 August), at the idyllic, peaceful Ponte a Nappo just below (and with a great view of) San Gimignano. The lodging came recommended courtesy of Rick, and he didn't steer us wrong. We had some minor confusion during check-in, since our reservation didn't match what Carla had on her computer. Given that my italiano and her inglese were about equally bad, we waited for Carla's son Francesco to show up and clarify.
Fred K
Leesburg, VA USA 09/06/2007
I consider myself fairly well traveled and have stayed in many different levels of accommodations through the years, and I can honestly say that our six day stay at this farm was one of my most memorable trips ever. In fact, in ranks in my top 5 (the others being trips to S. Africa, Egypt, Alaska and Madagascar).
Kyrstyn <email>
Washington, DC USA 09/04/2007
Tasty Tuscany is a mountaintop paradise that has lured us back twice. Hosts Patrizia and Paulo have created a Tuscan experience that includes cooking lessons, excursions to local "gems" which aren't in the guide books and a quality of rest and relaxation which lingers for weeks after you return home.
Cathy <email>
Dundas, Ont Canada 08/24/2007
Our family of four stayed at Agritourismo Metina in July (www.metina.it). I highly recommend Metina especially for families, and here is a little piece of advice I have NEVER seen mentioned in guidebooks or this forum: Italian agritourismos are not, in general, kid-friendly. We spent the week before Metina in a different agritourismo in Greve, and were surprised by all the rules: pool closes at 7, don't make noise, no pool toys, and there were NO other children, just older European couples with swimsuit allergies. It's a drag for the kids. I've since been told this is typical, and much different than our experiences at French gîtes. Metina is different...a fun, laid-back atmosphere and Monica and Alberto are just great people. It's a great launching point for visiting Montepulciano, Montalcino, Pienza, and other sites.
Neil <email>
Lake Forest Park, WA USA 08/24/2007
La Crociona http://www.lacrociona.com/index.htm
Henry <email>
Kansas USA 07/28/2007
We recently spent one week at a wonderful agriturismo near Orvieto. This farmhouse is located in quite peaceful area on the tuscany-Umbria border. We loved the fresh figs and tomatoes from the garden and the lovely tart that was waiting for us when we arrived. The pool was perfect after a morning of site seeing especially for our 2 teenagers. Serena and Francesco are great hosts and made our stay very relaxing. Check out their website at www.frallarenza.it
Cheryl <email>
Castlegar, BC Canada 07/24/2007
We only hesitate to write this rave review of Cretaiole because secretly we want to keep it all to ourselves! Our first trip to Italy was in May/June, 2007 and we spent a week at Cretaiole at the beginning of our trip. This was truly a warm, fun, enlightening and beautiful place to stay. There was not one thing that we would change about it and only wished we could have stayed longer. If we are ever fortunate enough to return to Italy, we will stay here in a heartbeat above all other places--only we will stay longer the next time. Our hostess Isabella and her husband Carlo, as well as their parents, did everything in their power to make this a meaningful and memorable week. We were taught how to make the italian pasta called pici. We all participated in this activity while enjoying wine of their vinyard and being taught about Italian ways. We had special opportunities to enjoy meals and be toured of unique places, simply because we were guests at Cretaiole. If you are planning a Tuscany trip, we promise you that you will not be disappointed if you spend some time at Cretaiole.
Jeanne and Denny Simmerman <email>
Florence, MT USA 07/24/2007
If you visit Firenze, I highly recommend that you stay at this very accommodating bed and breakfast. My wife and I and our teenaged son and daughter visited Firenze at the end of June 2007. Our stay at Il Poggiolo made our visit much more wonderful and memorable than it otherwise would have been. This unique Organic Olive Farm B and B was at one time the home of Enrico Caruso and sits in the hills outside the city. The lovely rooms are very clean and inviting and the included breakfast is yummy. From up on the little hill, it is magical to see the lights of the city below in the night. Besides the incredible setting, the main reason for the magic of our stay was our hostess, Graziella. She took us under her wing and provided the services of a friend before she became a friend of ours. She met us at the train station. She made us reservations at the museums we requested - Uffizi and Accademia. She provided us bus tickets and bus map and detailed instructions so that we could travel into Firenze on the buses which are the best way to travel in this city. She gave us her cell phone so we could call if we got lost. She recommended us to two restaurants run by her friends that gave us very different but very delicious dining experiences. La Bottega Della Nonna Nina was family run and neighborhood in character. I Ricchi was elegant and fine dining. I really could go on and on, but must stop now with a final remembrance of how nice it was to come back to Il Poggiolo at night and leave the stress of the hustle and bustle of this great Italian city behind. Graziella's attention to detail and willingness to provide that extra step of hospitality will make your stay in Florence as fabulous as ours!
Toby <email>
Anchorage, AK USA 07/23/2007
I just stayed in a wonderful apartment in Castelmuzio. The property is
called La Casina di Castello, and is actually comprised of two apartments, a larger apartment upstairs called Il Cielo and a smaller apartment downstairs called Il Nido. I actually stayed in the smaller of the two apartments, Il Nido. It is charmingly romantic and has absolutely everything that is needed for a wonderful stay. There is a beautiful bedroom and very well-equipped bathroom with shower. There is also a great kitchen with everything that one needs either for a quick snack or glass of wine in the garden, or to cook an entire meal.
The owners have given every attention to detail and provided absolutely everything from a bountiful breakfast basket to luxurious bath items. The owners are also very attentive and ready to help with anything, from a crisis (I locked myself out and they came at 10pm to get me into the apartment) to giving information on the area.
I found the most charming thing about the apartment to be the attached private garden. The flower-filled garden is perfectly secluded and well-equipped with chairs for lounging and a table and chairs for dining outside.
Both apartments are located in the ancient village of Castelmuzio. Castelmuzio is a very charming village with all that one needs for their stay in Tuscany....grocery store (Co-op), quiant restaurants and wonderful friendly people. It is in a great location...close to Pienza, Montepulciano, Petroio, Montisi and numerous other wonderful hilltowns.
If you want the perfect place from which to explore the Tuscan countryside and still want to have a very private vacation...this is the place for you.
As a special note-on this trip I stayed alone at this location and always felt completely safe. This is a great apartment for either a couple or a person travelling alone.
Susan Truitt <email>
Indian Harbor Beach, FL USA 07/23/2007
My family enjoyed a wonderful 3 night stay at Italy Farm Stay, just outside the Abruzzi National Park. Antonello and his mother, Maria, welcomed us upon our arrival with delicious homemade wine and bread with homemade olive oil. After showing us our room, Antonello gave us a tour of the farm, including many fruit trees that he told us we could pick from anytime, and the animals: goats, a donkey, chickens and rabbits. Our kids were in heaven! During our stay, we enjoyed several beautiful hikes in the mountains,
a delicious (and very cheap) meal cooked by Maria, and other delicious meals in the surrounding area. On our drives we discovered beautiful little hill towns that could rival the hill towns in Tuscany. (In fact they are better because there are no crowds!) This is a lovely undiscovered area of Italy.
But the best thing about our trip was the warm hospitality of Antonello and his family. We stayed at many lovely places during a three week trip to Italy, but Antonello's farm was our favorite!
Cindy
Seattle, WA USA 07/17/2007
My wife and I had a wonderful time in Florence partly due to our host Graziella. The B&B is situated on a hill outside of Florence and is partly a converted farm amids an olive grove. She not only arranged our museum tikets in advance but also gave helpful tips for places to go, see, eat. Graziella was extremely helpful, had each days bus connections available, shuttled us to and from Florence if needed, let us use a cell phone for the stay. She is gracious, helpful and goes above beyond....English is good.
To experience the true 'tuscany hill side' and feel with warmth and friendly atmosphere from a wounderful italian olive tree grower, host and owner, stay at Il Poggiolo Bed and Breakfast! Please see weblink http://www.tuscany.net/ilpoggiolo/index.html
Tim
raleigh, NC USA 07/15/2007
First I must say - Rick Steves, you should have this location in you book!
Lpuffer <email>
chelmsford, ma USA 07/15/2007
I am highly recommending Antonello’s farm (www.italyfarmstay.com) for anyone looking for a pleasant stay in the Italian countryside. My wife and I were Antonello’s guests and we had a wonderful time exploring the local villages and towns. The accommodations are clean, spacious, and better yet affordable for the budget traveler (18 E for shared bath, 22 E private w/breakfast). The farm is nestled in the mountainside, where many outdoor activities are close at hand. The farm's host, Antonello, is generous, giving of his time and transportation, to be sure activities such as trail hiking, horse riding, paragliding, and a visit to the cheese-making shepherd are within the grasp of enjoyment.
George
Diamond Bar, CA USA 07/13/2007
Amanda <email>
DE USA 07/10/2007
This spring we spent a week at the FOresteria
http://www.foresteria.it/eng/index.html
The hostess Marion was extremely helpful - with maps directions etc - we took the train to Florence - they made reservations at the Academia and Ufizzi for us - we highly recommend this lovely place
Elizabeth Lewis <email>
Prescott, AZ USA 07/08/2007
During our vacation, we contacted the Agritunismo to make reservations while we driving to the area. We confirmed our room for a double ensuite for 80 euros per nite. We called back later for more directions and reconfirmed our reservaton. When we checked out 2 days later, we were surprised that we were being charged 160 euros per nite per person. We showed the manager the price in Rick's book and he said he would not honor this rate which he said was per person. The place was lovely and the meals were great. Be aware that any activities or facilities are extra.
Priscilla
Ca USA 07/05/2007
Our family of four stayed at Casa Cernano in Castelnuovo Berardegna, southeast of Siena. The lovelingly restored 14th century Vatican farmhouse sits peacefully near the olive groves and vineyards. Eva was a gracious hostess and our two day stopover turned into four days of relaxing and soaking in the beautiful Tuscan landscape, and the wine. Located conveniently within walking distance to the village and restaurants.
JK <email>
Anchorage, Alaska USA 07/04/2007
Antello's farm (www.italyfarmstay.com)is FABULOUS! A great way to get out of the tourist crowds and enjoy some home cooking, beautiful mountain views and rural Italian life.
MK
NC USA 07/01/2007
I would like to emphatically and very highly recommend Ill Poggiolo (graziellacam@libero.it) near Florence as a wonderful farmstay in Tuscany. We read about it in Steves' Italy book. Graziella Camilloni, who owns and runs the small B&B, is a helpful, gracious hostess who is now a friend. We drove in a leased car from Rome, had car trouble, got lost and had a sick child - all in one miserable day. Graziella rescued us. She drove to meet us, made arrangements to have our car towed and fixed, supplied us with a wonderful dinner and went out of her way to help us during a very trying time. My husband was ready to return to the U.S. after only one week of a four week trip because of the horrible car experience. Graziella gave us bus tickets to Florence, she drove us to the train station so that we might visit the Italian Riviera. Without our even asking, she made reservations at the Accademia and the Uffizi for our family. And, for a nominal fee, she did our laundry! Ill Poggiolo was built by Enrico Caruso. The view is breathtaking. We stayed in a large family apartment with 4 beds and a huge bathroom. It is a very homey and warm place. Within walking distance are restaurants and a small hill town. It was a truly delightful place to stay. Jody Kellerman kellerman@goldrush.com
Jody Kellerman <email>
Sonora, Ca USA 06/25/2007
My husband and I recently returned from a second glorious vacation where we stayed three full weeks at Agriturismo Cretaiole. We enjoyed our stay there so much last year that before we left we booked our 2007 vacation—again staying in Il Pollaio. The end of the 3 weeks came, and we were not ready to leave at all. We had settled in and felt like we were at home—both physically and emotionally.
Claudia
Rochester area, NY USA 06/23/2007
We had a delightful experience in May of this year staying at Il Poggiolo in Tuscany. This place is very close to Florence, so is very convenient for touring both Tuscany and the city of Florence. If you are very lucky, Graziella, the owner of the B&B, will direct you, or, in our case, since we were there without a car, take you to the best restaurant we experienced in all of Italy: Trattoria iRicchi. The food was divine and the service wonderful. Graziella took wonderful care of us and we would recommend her B&B, surrounded by olive groves, to anyone.
Sara Allen <email>
Nampa, Idaho USA 06/23/2007
I'm hoping that you "veterans" of the Agriturismos might be able to help us out. We are looking to rent or lease a farmhouse property suitable for up to four couples for about a year. Do you know of any people, companies or services (all reputable of course!) that might be able to help us? Thanks a bunch.
Michael
CA USA 06/15/2007
I just came back from a week at ItalyFarmStay (www.itlayfarmstay.com), and it was one of the times I’ve had ever.
Jannie
Baltimore, MD USA 06/05/2007
My husband and I made our first trip to Italy about a month ago. We went with some friends. Were were there for 17 days total and spent 7 of those days in Tuscany. We stayed at an Agriturismo 10 minutes outside of Pienza called Fonti Bertusi. It was amazing. We rented an apartment with 2 bedrooms, kitchen and one bath. The cost was E870.00 for the week. Manuella, Eduardo and......our hosts were incredible. The apartment was spotlessly clean and not worn. The property was blooming with all kinds of delightful flowers/plants. The made the most incredible but simple Italian breakfast each morning. I became addicted to Cappucino there! The views from the property were incredible. We would venture each day to another close city for the day, maybe have dinner there and return to the apartment in the evening. It was very convenient. We drove 40 minutes to Chuisi to catch a train to Florence for the day, visited Sienna, Pienza, Montalcino, Cortona, Moltipulciano, and more. Tom and I both got sick while we were there, probably everything blooming! They were so kind...sending a tray for breakfast to Tom etc. We spent a day at the apartment re-couping while our friends ventured out. It was wonderful. They have a nice pool with an incredible view. We would recommend it to anyone heading to Tuscany. We compared prices and they were very well priced in comparison to many others we researched and they were very helpful before and during our stay. THey asked us how as "Americans" we had found them. We told them we searched Agriturismos.it and they were familiar with that however, they had never heard of Rick Steves so we talked about him and his website and they wrote it down to check it out. If you contact them, tell them Diane and Tom Leone (stayed there in April this year) say "Ciao"!
Diane Leone
Saint Augustine, FL USA 06/01/2007
The past week has been the best! After the amazing experience of Pompei and Vesuvius, my husband and I traveled by bus the countryside between Naples and Rome to a farm near Sora. On this farm they raise a few animals, make their own olive oil and wine, and grow their own organic vegetables. The son of Guisepee and Marie is Antonello and it is he that runs the farm stay. You can pay and stay as a guest but you can also volunteer and work on the farm in exchange for room and board. ... you should seriously consider this as a cheap way of travel but also as an amazing cultural experience. If I were planning this trip again, I would spend almost all my time in the country and I would work on a farm stay. Antonello's farm is a cut above but there are more than just his ... www.italyfarmstay.com is his place. We had a great time hiking into the mountains to see a hidden waterfall, horseback riding down a river through the forest, watching a real shepherd make cheese, and learning how to make handmade pasta. As a volunteer you also get to do some of the activities. It was AMAZING. Plus we met some wonderful people from Austrailia (Prue), Britain (Debs), and Scotland (Elise)..... Pru was there like us as a guest but Debs and Alise were working on the farm and planned to work on otheres. Google it and find out! Hanging out on the farm with Anotello, Prue, Debs, and Elise was the real highlight of our trip! They were great people and we had so much fun there. Anotello was a real trickster and tried to convince us there were hermits living the forest . . . he was also amazingly laid back but with a real positive vision for the future of his farm. Prue and Debs and Elise went horseback riding and to the shepherd with us and it was so fun sharing the experience of eatting warm fresh cheese, made in front of our eyes and then drinking the (foul) warm whey .... which I will now confess, I never actually drank .. it smelled awful and the look on Debs face was enough for me!! Another great moment from the farm stay was when Elise ran into the kitchen at breakfast yelling, °the donkey is in the vegetable garden!!! Dustin, Prue and I ran to the rescue .... Dustin taking the lead and Prue and I looking brave with the sticks we grabbed in hand but actually limiting our help to a few pokes on the donkey's backside ..... Dustin managed to get the Donkey's rope and lead him back to his pen ... he was cantankerous and we had seen him be quite naughty so Prue and I stayed back ... Every morning we woke to the sound of raucous birds and watched magpies and little song birds from the comfort of the hammock ... We really loved it there!
www.italyfarmstay.com
Katrina
Ravenna, Texas USA 05/30/2007
My husband and I spent a week in early May, 2007, in the lovely Tuscan countryside, enjoying Graziella's hospitality and lovely accommodations. As our flight was delayed, she even came to the airport to escort us the 6 km north of Florence near Serpiolle, because she didn't want us to get overwhelmed with the rush hour traffic. She provided reservations for the museum tours, local area restaurants, as well as tips and suggestions (and bus tickets!) to get around. The Standard Apartment was perfect for the two of us, very comfortable, and while rustic, had all the modern conveniences. The house was built in 1920 for Enrico Caruso. It has an amazing view of the Tuscan countryside and the city of Florence. The breakfast room is very impressive, complete with a fish pond in a corner and numerous potted plants. The star jasmine on the outside is at least 20 feet tall and smells wonderful. The house is located on a bus line if you don't want to deal with driving and parking in Florence. Il Poggiolo is a working organic olive farm and Graziella has her award-winning olive oil right on the breakfast table for you to sample. It's great! Graziella herself is a wonderful hostess who knows several languages and goes out of her way to make you feel like well-cared for guests. We hope to go back and stay there again soon. You can reach her at http://www.il-poggiolo.it
Ron and Daria Howell <email>
Portland, OR USA 05/30/2007
Agriturismo Cretaiole is a piece of heaven in the Tuscan countryside. The Moricciani family are passionate, hardworking, and contagious. If you are a traveller who seeks a refuge that is breathtakenly beautiful and peaceful; and who wants an interesting cultural experience with a truly gracious Italian host family, then Agriturismo Cretaiole is the experience that you should take. Situated in the Val d'Orcia region, Cretaiole gives you a vacation that is hard to forget. You have the opportunity to participate in organized events such as homecooked meals, wine tastings, organized tours, olive oil tastings, and even trying your hand at making homemade pasta!
I dream of the day that I will return to Cretaiole and once again interact with the Moricciani family and their beautiful land.
Heather Fitzpatrick <email>
Halifax , NS Canada 05/29/2007
If anyone is traveling by car thru Umbria (near Orvieto) and looking for a nice place to stay...We loved this place: Agriturismo Frallarenza. The accomodations are spacious, comfortable, and beautiful (and they have a pool!). The prices are unbeatable. Francesco and Serena were warm, wonderful hosts.
They have done most all of the work themselves on their place, organically farming 10-15 acres of grapes and olives in addition to pursuing careers in weaving, ceramics and blacksmithing/farrier work.
Their place is 20 minutes fom orvieto and +/- 1-1/4hr. by train from Rome.
This was our first experience w/ Agriturismos. It was a great way to end a lovely time in Italy. It was a paradise!
David <email>
Seatle, Wa USA 05/29/2007
During our 2 week tour of Italy in April, my husband and I stayed at Quercecchio Agriturismo (www.quercecchio.it) which is located 8 km south of Montalcino. It was a GREAT find - a 15th Century convent converted 2 years ago into 9 apartments. It was very comfortable and tastefully appointed. The Amiata Apartment that we stayed in was a large 2 bedroom with 2 bathrooms and a generous kitchen/living area with breath taking views of the Tuscan Landscape. The pictures of that room on the web site doesn't do it justice. The cost was e 150,00 per night. Querecchio is a wine producing property (with a fantastic 2001 Brunello), very quite and it has a pool and laundry facilities. Matteo our host was very helpful and full of information about the area. We were surprised to learn that we were the first US guests at Quercecchio. Because the Agriturismo Quercecchio has fully equipped kitchens in each of the apartments, at this point they are not offering a restaurant. Nearby in Montalcino there is a meat market, vegetable market, bakery and small grocery store all near each other on the main street. We stopped in town for supplies before we headed to the apartment. If you want to eat out the restaurant Trattoria Il Leccio in Montalcino was fabulous and had great service too! We really loved that part of Italy!
Linda Olhava <email>
Corona, CA USA 05/28/2007
enrico (sp?) is absolutely amazing. the most hospitable italian ive met. his parents bought the land twenty years ago and they all run it. when you get there he'll share a glass of his own vino blanca with you, and is hard working and never gives you any put out attitude. besides all that he has the most beautiful children ive met, and two cute fox like dogs that wander around. check him out in rick's books.
jude
austin, tx USA 05/27/2007
I'm Italian, i live in Tuscany, in Volterra (Pisa province). I would like to tell you that Tuscany is not only San Gimignano, Florence or Siena. Tuscany is also Val di Cecina and Volterra, a beautiful town where you can see etruscan, roman and medioeval history. Last week, in our farmhouse, we've got 2 american guestes, from California, and they was surpise for the beauty of Volterra and the country around.Anyway, San Gimignano is 20 minutes by car, Pisa is 40 minutes by car, Siena, Florence and Lucca are 50 minutes far from the farmhouse. My farmhouse is called "Agriturismo La fonte" www.agriturismolafonte.org and is a peacefull place.
Katia <email>
Volterra (Pisa), Tuscan Italy 05/26/2007
If you are planning a stay at Agriturismo Cretaiole before the end of this year, I have an unused credit of 180 Euros. I had to cancel my trip last fall and cannot go this year to use my deposit. Isabella is kind enough to transfer this amount to another reservation - family, friend, etc. -- the one caveat being that it must be a new reservation only; not one that's already been booked. I'd like to get $180 (US) for 180 Euros which is a savings of about $63 based on the current exchange rate. Thank you!
Sylvia <email>
San Jose, CA USA 05/24/2007
We wish we could have stayed longer at this wonderful place bordering Abruzzo National Park in central Italy. It's midway between Rome and Naples, about 45 minutes off the autostrada, but well worth getting off the beaten path. You don't even have to drive...they'll pick you up and drop you at the train station in Sora.
Brad, Ellen, Luke and Lydia <email>
St. Louis, MO USA 05/22/2007
I would like to recommend the Agrturismo Le Torreselle in Vicenza province. My wife and I loved the setting in the hill country,horse rides and local dishes with home grown ingredients. Antonella the owner was great and gave us insights into local events and places to visit by day trips.She treated us very well and she shared her Italy with us.
gary archer <email>
shoreline w, wa USA 05/21/2007
If you are booked (or plan to be) at Agriturismo Cretaiole this year, I have an unused credit of 180 Euros. I had to cancel my trip last fall and cannot go this year to use my deposit.
Isabella is kind enough to transfer this amount to another reservation - family, friend, etc. I'd like to get $180 (US) for 180 Euros which is a savings of about $63 based on the current exchange rate. Thank you!
Sylvia <email>
San Jose, CA USA 05/17/2007
I just returned from my first trip to Italy and it was wonderful. I wanted to tell everyone about Casa Nova-La Ripintura which is a 10 minute, nice walk into the small town of Greve-In-Chianti (and only 25km from Florence) Booking the room was very easy and Sandra and her husband are very nice people. We had a lovely room at the Casa Nova property (La Ripintura is only a 3 minute walk down the lane)with access to a wonderful balcony. Breakfast was provided and was simple but very nice. The staff was very helpful with answering our questions about getting around the area or restaurant suggestions. They helped us rent a car for the day and it was an easy walk into town to go pick it up. It was a great location for seeing the other towns in Tuscany within an hour and a half to two hour drive. I would definitely stay there again and recommend it to anyone who is interested in staying in that part of Italy. www.greve-in-chianti.com/casanova.htm
Sloane
Philadelphia, PA USA 05/16/2007
In Oct. last year my daughters and I had the pleasure of a weeks stay at Galealpe agriturismo near Arezzo in Tuscany. Alessandra & Andrea are a young couple working an olive farm on the slope of the Pratomagno mountain and were perfect hosts, suggesting Tuscan towns not on the tourist maps, as well as steering us in the right direction for buying local products. The accommodation could not have been better in the 18th century farmhouse with the wonderf