Name: Rentvillas.com
Address: 1697 NW Precision Ln, Bend
Rating: 4.38

“Overall: We had a memorable experience in spite of a rainy week. Lots to do and see and lots of diversity. Besides hill-towns, there were Etruscan tombs, La Foce villa gardens, and the lake areas to explore. The villa was a bit remote, but authentically Italian and off the beaten path. Enjoyed Most: The owner had a well-stocked library of travel guides in English, saving us a lot of buying and schlepping around of books. They also provided a helpful binder of suggested itineraries within easy driving distance and a hand-held GPS with the tours already programmed. Wonderful! Enjoyed Least: We did not find the local restaurants particularly friendly. The only thing lacking the first week of May was heat and it turned out to be a cold, rainy week. We did stoke up the fireplace, however. Surrounding Area: Lots to do and see and lots of diversity. Besides visiting hill-towns, there were Etruscan tombs, La Foce villa gardens, and the lake areas to explore. Also castles and monasteries. We never made it to the wineries, but they are there somewhere. Nearby Events or Locales: Torre Alfina was all around us. Very nice, but limited. One week was enough for me here. Tips or Restaurants: I would've liked some information about tours of some local production such as wineries, cheese-making or mushroom growing. Check In Out: We were a little rushed on departure day. The house cleaner showed up at 8:30 while we were still getting ready to leave but she tried to stay out of the way.”

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(Villa Del Castello) - Posted 14 years ago

“Overall: Very enjoyable. Enjoyed Most: Very quiet. It felt remote even though it was quite accessible and close to two towns. Enjoyed Least: The beds were hard. Smoke in first upstairs bedroom from the living room fireplace. Surrounding Area: Beautiful countryside and easily accessible to main roads and many sites. Nearby Events or Locales: Orentano was the closest town, but wouldn't consider it walking distance to go for a meal or shopping. In comfy shoes and in daylight it would be a nice walk. Tips or Restaurants: We had a wonderful meal at La Benito in Orentano Da Vito was also good. We found a great local, small grocery store and Altopascio and we loved the bakery.”

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(La Corte 2) - Posted 14 years ago

“Overall: We had a large group and it was a good setting that afforded everyone some time alone or together as needed. Enjoyed Most: The outdoor setting, even though it was off season, was quiet. Enjoyed Least: The doors were tricky to lock and unlock and the utility cost was higher than expected. We did rent in March, however, so we needed the heat. Surrounding Area: There were 2 restaurants close by that we had dinner a few nights and the kitchens were well stocked to accommodate multiple chefs all at the same time. Nearby Events or Locales: I would say the winding roads didn't make it very walkable, although at sunset locals were out walking. Tips or Restaurants: We brought a few unusual utensils with us we needed, basting brush, spring-form pan, knife sharpener, and ipod radio. All came in handy and having music was nice in the evenings. We also purchased a lighter for the fireplace. Directions: We were not familiar with Siena and had a long drive in with no GPS. Tip: the Si-Fi highway means Siena to Florence. Check In Out: Be sure you have anticipated the utility costs (especially heating)above the requested deposit.”

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(Villa Del Cielo With Caminetto) - Posted 14 years ago

“Overall: Very favorable experience. Hassan was prompt and efficient, introduced us to every detail that we needed to know to make our stay pleasant. Enjoyed Most: Location. Enjoyed Least: Nothing. Surrounding Area: The Campo dei Fiori area may be the best place in Rome for walking and people watching. Directions: We are familiar with this area and did not use or need GPS, we do walk with a compass in our pocket which helped in the decision of "turn right or left" more than once. Check In Out: All went as smoothly as we could have possibly wanted.”

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(Campo Dei Fiori - Cristoforo) - Posted 14 years ago

“Overall: The owner was personable and helpful. Despite a week with lots of rain, we enjoyed ourselves in the house and taking day trips to Ronda center, Seville, Marbella Gibralter at the shore. The countryside is spectacular. Enjoyed Most: The nice yard, privacy and charm. We couldn't be outdoors much due to rain. The inside was cozy and well appointed and the bedrooms comfortable. The kitchen was well stocked with all the essentials: pots, dishes, utensils, bowls etc. Enjoyed Least: The washing machine was broken. Surrounding Area: A nice view of the countryside outside of the gate. It was a short drive into Ronda proper. The countryside is beautiful. Nearby Events or Locales: Ronda was a 5 minute drive. Tips or Restaurants: Washcloths are not provided; bring some if you need them.”

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(Finca Ronda - Villa Adora) - Posted 14 years ago

“Overall: Very nice villa. Enjoyed Most: Location is very peaceful. Enjoyed Least: Stove needs repairs- dials don't work. Also one shower head needs work. Surrounding Area: Close to many beautiful sights. Nearby Events or Locales: A good supermarket was only 5 minutes by car. Tips or Restaurants: Try the owner's wine and olive oil. It is excellent.”

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(La Tenuta Colonica - Tulipano) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: This was our second time in the same villa and it was wonderful. The renovations were great - enlarging one bedroom and 3 bathrooms. We were so comfortable and felt right at home. Enjoyed Most: The spaciousness and location. Enjoyed Least: The views. Surrounding Area: We were right in the middle of all the activity around Santa Croce and close proximity to most sites. Directions: Took a taxi and they knew just where Santa Croce was.”

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(Piazza Santa Croce - Peruzzi) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: We enjoyed being in the city. Enjoyed Most: The fun of being on the Piazza Santa Croce. Enjoyed Least: The noise from the kids at 3:00 am. Back bedrooms hot. Utilities expensive. Surrounding Area: All that the city had to offer Tips or Restaurants: Frommers top 6 restaurants were great.”

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(Piazza Santa Croce - Pazzi) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: Very relaxing. If you are interested in just seeing the sites then a week is enough time, but if you want to relax as well, two weeks is a must. We visited the towns of Amalfi, Positano, Sorrento, Vesuvius, Herculaneum, Paestum and the Island of Capri. We where there for two weeks so we had a few days to relax at the beach. Enjoyed Most: The property is very well laid out, with enough room for four people to move around freely. It was great to have a various outdoor spaces to choose from, two terraces with views, the dining terrace and the sun deck on top. Since the two bedroom suites are on different floors it allowed privacy as needed. The first floor suite is nicer than the second floor suite. Enjoyed Least: The kitchen was great, except for the lack of a dishwasher. It would also be nice if there was a vacuum or broom and mop left at the villa. This would come in handy since all the floors are white tile. Surrounding Area: The town of Praiano was very nice and not as touristy as Positano or Amalfi. The small grocery story at the bottom of the hill was perfect and we cooked a great deal of the time and found most everything we needed there. Nearby Events or Locales: To reach the center of town or the beach you had a 15-20 minute walk DOWNhill. Positano is a 20 minute bus ride away with the bus stop less then a three minute walk from the villa. Tips or Restaurants: STEPS, yes there are too many to mention. It is a few hundred meters from the parking UP the road to the front step of the villa which are another three stories before you reach the front door. This was not a problem with us us but I can see it causing troubles for some. Buy your Bus tickets at the tabacchi - it is cheaper then buying them on the bus. Directions: Direction worked fine.”

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(Casa Fiorenza) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: Just delightful! Enjoyed Most: The quietness, and the regal beauty. Enjoyed Least: All the steps!!! Surrounding Area: The vistas were incredible. Hey, its Tuscany! Nearby Events or Locales: Baccaiano, and we did walk there. Tips or Restaurants: Come prepared to do lots of walking, plan to eat a few of your meals in your room in addition to breakfast. If you have the right amenities, you can do your own cooking. Directions: Taxi driver knew his way. That was the upside, downside was not having our own vehicle, but we worked it out just fine!”

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(Il Castello 18) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: loved Cortona and this location. The apartment was small but charming. Enjoyed Most: The small table and chairs on the courtyard. Enjoyed Least: It was very hot while we were there, with only 1 window in the apartment, it was difficult to get any air circulation. Bathroom didn't ventilate well so got very muggy. Surrounding Area: Great restaurants within walking distance. The courtyard was a lovely place to have cocktails at night. Cortona makes a great home base for day trips. Nearby Events or Locales: The apartment is within the village walls. Tips or Restaurants: a small fan would be good if travelling in summer months. Apartment was stocked with olive oil, vinegar etc.”

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(Casa Cortona 4) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: Very satisfied. Enjoyed Most: The location was perfect. The views were amazing. I really appreciated having a stocked refrigerator and cabinet when we arrived. It made our transition after a crazy day of traveling much easier. Enjoyed Least: There was weak water pressure throughout the unit and there were ants in the kitchen and bathrooms. There is no AC in the unit but the sea breeze is usually sufficient at night. Surrounding Area: Being close to the beach and the pedestrian area made the location a great jumping-off point for some of the surrounding towns. We took the local bus and water taxi to other locations-it was quick and easy to travel. Nearby Events or Locales: Downtown Positano was only a few blocks away. Tips or Restaurants: Bring detergent if you plan to wash clothes. If you keep the shutters closed during the day, the evenings are much cooler in the unit. There is no AC so the unit could be uncomfortable otherwise. Directions: I took the SITA bus from the local train. It was a little confusing to get to the unit, but it would have been much easier had we opted for a taxi or car service from Naples. Check In Out: It was very easy.”

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(Casa Luna) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: Wonderful. The couple were very friendly and helpful and the views were unbelievably lovely. You could see several hilltop villages from outside the front door of the property. Enjoyed Most: Its location and beauty. Enjoyed Least: Difficult to say as it was so lovely. Maybe the nearness of the small gravel road with occasional farm vehicles. Surrounding Area: Easy to reach the local village and nearby towns. The sunsets! Nearby Events or Locales: Montechiello. You could walk there in 20 minutes, but it is uphill on the way back, so didn't try it.”

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(Pienzina) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: The property was better than we expected. We were very pleased with it. There were 3 other families in the surrounding apartments, however when you were in your personal outdoor space, it was extremely private. The pool was perfect, and being on the top of a mountain made the 90 degree heat quite pleasant. Enjoyed Most: The apartment was super easy to keep clean! It was very low maintenance in that respect. Also, the air conditioning worked very well. Enjoyed Least: The beds were not so great...although when I made mention of this at the front desk, they had a fluffy mattress pad delivered the same day...which really helped. Additionally, the dishwasher didn't wash so well...One last item was the TV...there were only 3 English speaking channels. Watching TV at night was not an option. Surrounding Area: The area was perfect...30 minutes to Livorno, 30 minutes to Pisa, and about 45 minutes to Florence. Day trips were super easy! Nearby Events or Locales: Montopoli was the closest town...you had to drive there, and they were really skinny roads. This was a very small town, but did have a few restaurants as well as a great bakery and butcher shop with the best prosciutto I have ever tasted! Each morning, the baker would arrive around 8:15 with bread and breakfast pastries still warm from his shop. This was such a treat! Tips or Restaurants: We brought a portable speaker system for our iPod...it was perfect...bring a computer with DVD's for the kids...we wish we had brought more as there were only 3 English speaking channels available. Directions: We rented a car from EuropCar with a GPS. The GPS took us a different way once we were off the highway, but it did get us directly to the front gate. Check In Out: Make sure you check in first...then head out to the supermarket for food...we did the food shopping first...and there was hardly any room in the car for us!”

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(Fattoria Capponi - Armani) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: The villa was very nice. Enjoyed Most: The villa was well equipped, and had a good view and garden. Enjoyed Least: The villa was more remote than we expected. The washing machine was problematic. Surrounding Area: Good coastal area, liked the availability of good seafood. Nearby Events or Locales: We did walk to Cupra Marittima but it was a tough walk in hot weather as the villa was on top of a hill. The walk was about 20 minutes and not really easy. Directions: Direction were good, but when we were there we didn't know which place was the villa. We needed to ask at the restaurant who phoned our host for us.”

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(Villa Annunziata) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: We had a great time in the villa. The villa is very secluded and quiet, creating an oasis for us. We thoroughly enjoyed the area as well. Enjoyed Most: Anna and Felice keep the place very clean and orderly all around. The views were fabulous we enjoyed the sunsets and the stars many nights. The pools were the best feature of the property - especially the children's pool for our kids The pictures of the pool do not do it justice. Enjoyed Least: The kitchen was functional, but small if we had had another family besides our two families of four. As it was, it was fine. There needs to be instructions for the appliances, including the washing machine, Satellite TV (plenty of sex channels, but short on children's shows), and the AC. While Anna and Felice were great hosts, they do not speak English so be prepared to meet them halfway with Italian. Surrounding Area: We loved the access to the beach of Castiglione della Pescaia and the southern Tuscany town of Pitigliano, the hot springs Saturnia, and island Monte Argentario. The villa was located fairly closely to the SS1 so getting to other cities was fairly easy. Nearby Events or Locales: The closest town was Montiano and not within walking distance. There is a small grocery store there to get some supplies. Other close towns included Respezia, Alberese and Montelione del Toscana each within 5-15km. Tips or Restaurants: There was very little to bring. There was laundry detergent and dishwashing liquid and the bathrooms were well stocked with toiletries as in a hotel. Bug spray is a must. In terms of restaurants, we loved Il Fontanina in Monte Argentario and also loved Trattoria Toscana in Castiglione della Pescaia an Alain Ducasse Michelin one star restaurant. Lastly, we loved the Maremma style meal that Anna and Felice cooked for us, but beware of the cost for children. While I understand the reason for minimums and the 25 euro cost per child, it seemed excessive for what they really ate...that being said, 40 euro for adults for a private meal was worth it given the volume and quality of the food and hospitality. Directions: We thought the directions were fine, but we could not find the town nor the property on our Garmin GPS. Beware that the dirt road is relatively long...and with frequent trips can be a good amount of wear and tear on your car. Check In Out: Anna greeted us warmly and tried as best she could to show us around. No issues at all.”

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(Il Salottino) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: Overall, the experience was positive. The apartment and grounds were spotless, exactly the way I like my home in the U.S. The family is very nice, attentive and helpful. We had an ant problem our first morning in the flat and they took care of it immediately. There were some spider sightings but these can't be helped in the countryside. Our shower had very little water pressure so it took twice the time to shower in the mornings. We weren't in a hurry so it wasn't an issue but maybe they should look into that. The laundry room, located in the back of the house, is a little far from the main residences but if you check it out, you'll see how well they maintain their property. You can practically eat off the floor in that room! Enjoyed Most: I really liked their pool. Although the weather didn't cooperate that much, we were able to enjoy 1-2 days poolside. They maintained the pool very well, not too much chlorine, and the lawn furniture was pretty cool and retro. The view from where the pool is situated is amazing! Enjoyed Least: The location is the least attractive about this property. First, the road leading to the house is not paved. We scratched the bottom of our car and we suspect that the alignment was off after driving to-from the property daily. Second, the closest town seems to be San Gimignano which is overrun with tourists! My friend and I took a walk around the town on a rainy morning and we couldn't even walk in a straight line because there were so many tourists to avoid. We never went back again. Also, the locals who work in the town were so rude, probably because they get annoyed with so many American bus tour groups going into their shops and automatically speaking English! I would recommend a different and more beautiful location - Castellina in Chianti. The town there is tiny but so adorable and NOT overrun with tourists. The scenery is breathtaking and the roads are paved. Surrounding Area: The grounds are well kept. The family seems to be fairly strict about what you can consume in the public areas so we respected that. Directions: We had a GPS but I did not receive nor request the coordinates. This is definitely important because we burned nearly one hour trying to find the place until an American expat literally drove us to the location. Check In Out: Very streamlined.”

Helpful Report

(Il Cortile Del Borgo 1) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: Very good. Enjoyed Most: The backyard. The description sounded like it was a shared pool. In fact, the entire back yard is fenced and covered with plantings, and there is a separate swimming pool for each property. Enjoyed Least: Bed a little short for my tall husband. Surrounding Area: Hiking and easy access to Ronda. Nearby Events or Locales: Ronda is not within walking distance but a quick drive. Check In Out: Appreciated the warm welcome and departure.”

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(Finca Ronda - Villa Alba) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: This was a very enjoyable trip. The accommodations were excellent and the location peaceful and beautiful. The owner was gracious and helpful. Enjoyed Most: The quiet and beautiful location. Enjoyed Least: Bathroom and bedroom was small but this is when compared to US style living. Internet connection very slow. Surrounding Area: We appreciated the beauty of the countryside. Nearby Events or Locales: Nearest small town was Figline and not within walking distance. Tips or Restaurants: We used a GPS to help us navigate our way around, was most useful. Directions: We used a GPS to get around. I would suggest using a GPS device and would be interesting to find out which one works best. We took with us a Tomtom and a Garmin. It was a high end Tomtom and was better than the low end Garmin GPS.”

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(Toni 2) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: Positive, to be renewed. Enjoyed Most: Clean and lots of services, good size property for 5 people. Enjoyed Least: No view. Surrounding Area: Tranquility and peace. Nearby Events or Locales: Javea - not within walking distance Tips or Restaurants: No suggestions; the villa had every facilities required."Chez Angel" in Javea is a great restaurant and the meal at the villa by a cook was also a great experience. Check In Out: Everything was according to plan.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Del Color) - Posted 15 years ago

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