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

“Overall: The whole group enjoyed the villa and all the outside terraces and balconies. The views from the villa were the best of the whole lake. This is an extraordinary property and extremely well run. We received fresh linens several times and the maid came to make up the bed in the living room on Monday. It was more wonderful than the pictures online. Enjoyed Most: The fabulous views from every room was a real plus. The well stocked kitchen and lovely terraces made us decide to spend more time at the villa than touring the lake. The little local store up the steps from the villa supplied great croissants in the mornings. The villa had everything one needs to enjoy a relaxing vacation. Enjoyed Least: The long walk to the villa and the crumbling stairs up to the main door. Also, one chair was broken on the terrace, but everything else was in great repair and extremely clean and the description explained the difficulty in reaching this villa. Surrounding Area: We enjoyed the close location by boat from Menaggio to other cities particularly to Bellagio and Varenna. Our favorite town by far was Menaggio. We also traveled by car over the mountain from Menaggio to Lake Lugano and stopped at the local golf course. We also spent a day traveling by car to Lake Maggiore and the Bormean Islands. We took a day trip by train through the alps to St. Moritz. The train ride is on the World site list going from 400 meters to 7000 meters without the use of a cog rail. It was worth the hour drive to the train station in northern Italy Nearby Events or Locales: Donga was the largest town nearby but there was a little grocery and pizzeria in the village of our villa. Donga was not really within walking distance but this is where we found the greatest grocery store. They offered many freshly prepared dishes. Tips or Restaurants: Bring a flashlight for late returns to the villa. We found numerous good restaurants. We had a lovely meal at the Grand Hotel Cadenabbia on the roof--reservations suggested--very romantic with the moon and view and Italian opera. Directions: We used a GPS, however the directions worked well.”

Helpful Report

(Villa Amata) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: Very good. Staff responded well to any problem we had and the property was well kept and organised. Enjoyed Most: The view and location, cleanliness and condition of property. Enjoyed Least: Beds, lack of oven, bbq, trees-shrubs needed cutting back to enjoy the wonderful view from our garden. Surrounding Area: Proximity to San Gimignano for evening outings, ease of access to other hill-top towns. Nearby Events or Locales: Nothing in walking distance, 2km gravel road. Tips or Restaurants: Use Coop store just off Poggibonsi south exit, rather than the Pam. Use Coop in San Gimignano for small shopping needs.”

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(Il Cortile Del Borgo 15) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: Great. Enjoyed Most: The location. Enjoyed Least: Nothing. Surrounding Area: Wine. Tips or Restaurants: Enjoy!”

Helpful Report

(Casa Del Mulino With Guesthouse) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: This was our first time to rent a villa, and we were pleasantly surprised how nice this one was...very tastefully decorated and furnished! Fairly close to many attractions in Tuscany. Grocery store and train station 10 to 20 minutes away, respectfully. Keyholder, Jenni, was very friendly, professional, and helpful. She even gave us a tour of the larger villa and private chapel on the property, which are currently being restored. Enjoyed Most: This farmhouse was recently restored and remodeled and done in a very tasteful fashion. The photos on Rentvillas web site don't quite do it justice. We were concerned that the AC would not be adequate for a July-August stay, but there were plenty of units to keep the place cool 1 to 2 per room! The biggest bonus was the Limonaia house - it looked like something straight out of Architectural Digest and yet there are no pictures of it online. The layout was great, too The master bedroom is in one wing upstairs, and all other bedrooms are in the opposite wing, with one bedroom downstairs. Plenty of bathrooms, too. Enjoyed Least: Would like to see more "basics" included. After our initial supply was used up, we had to go running around Tuscany looking for toilet paper after hours.Washer-Dryer took a long time to run thru cycles, occasionally tripping breakers in the house. Could use a plug and more lighting around the pool area - one light was missing. Hot-Cold water temperature was a little erratic in master bath. Surrounding Area: The Villa is set on a huge piece of property high above a nearby small town, Forcoli, and the approach up to the property is gorgeous. The farmhouse is set far off the road, with a beautiful, private approach. Many tiny hilltop towns nearby to explore. The highlight for us were the drives to San Gimignano and Volterra. Nearby Events or Locales: Forcoli was the nearest town with a small grocery store. About a 5-10 minute drive. The only thing within walking distance was a small, family run bar, which was quite charming. Tips or Restaurants: A rental car is a must at this Villa, and most rental companies offer a GPS system for a small fee. In our case, we rented the "TomTom" system from Avis. This thing was worth its weight in gold and kept us from getting lost on numerous occasions. The property included a manual explaining how all the equipment works in the Villa, as well as a list of suggested restaurants in the area...we were pleased with each one we tried. Directions: Get a GPS system.”

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(Villa Della Stemma) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: The overall experience was excellent. Enjoyed Most: The location. It is walking distance from the train station, about 10 minutes. You are literally in the middle of the shopping district and there are major bazaars or markets five minutes away. The Duomo, one of the major attractions in Florence, is up the street. Enjoyed Least: I'm lazy, so a dishwasher would have been great. Surrounding Area: There is something for everyone. Shopping, tours, even a merry-go-round. Tips or Restaurants: Go easy on the luggage. The are lots of narrow steps up to the apartment.”

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(Bravissimo) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: We had a great experience and the keyholder was very helpful with any of our issues. Enjoyed Most: Sitting by the pool. Enjoyed Least: The fact that there were no screens on the windows in the bedroom. Surrounding Area: Spectacular scenery and wonderful wine. Tips or Restaurants: Ensure you have mosquito repellent for the night time. Da Bule, the town at the bottom of the hill, was a great restaurant and we had one of the most amazing desserts of our whole trip there.”

Helpful Report

(Machiavelli - Castello) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: We had a terrific time - things couldn't have been better. Enjoyed Most: Location, view, swimming pools, air-conditioning. Enjoyed Least: Lack of extra towels, sheets, pillows. Surrounding Area: Well located for day trips, restaurant just below the property was great. Tips or Restaurants: Restaurant just below the property and the restaurant at the hotel in Castel Rigone were both great. Check In Out: Owner was very nice and very accommodating.”

Helpful Report

(Villa Due Specchi) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: We had a marvelous time at La Novizia. We spent the second week of our three-week holiday in Italy there and it was a restful haven. Enjoyed Most: We loved the setting and the expansive views of the dreamy Tuscan countryside. The house is authentic and charming and yet has all the modern conveniences: air-conditioned bedrooms, essential in July, washer-dryer and a clothesline with a view! and dishwasher. It is perfectly maintained and kept impeccably clean by the maid who comes in daily.The pool, while not enormous, was a refreshing respite at the end of the day and the site of a great deal of family fun. Its setting among rosemary bushes and lavender added aromatherapy to our splashing! Enjoyed Least: The kitchen, though charming and authentic, is not very practical because of the fact that it is built on two levels. Surrounding Area: We visited Florence, Siena, San Gimignano and Certaldo, all of which are within easy driving distance of the villa. We had also planned to see some other nearby towns but were seduced into spending a couple of quiet days just enjoying the property. Nearby Events or Locales: The nearest small town is Fiano, which is 2km away across the fields and olive groves. It would be an inviting walk in cooler weather but the 30-35 degree weather made us opt for our air-conditioned car. Tips or Restaurants: The house was extremely well equipped and had everything we needed. All the supplies I had brought with me fore example matches, cutting board, sharp knife, cleaning supplies stayed in my suitcase.”

Helpful Report

(La Novizia) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: It was a wonderful experience. We had rental cars and took a day trip each day all about 1 hour villa-to-location. Did not get lost due to GPS systems in the cars and were able to enjoy the magnificent countryside. Enjoyed Most: I thought the outside area was beautifully maintained, comfortable and relaxing.The pool area was a treat after returning late afternoons from various surrounding towns. The grounds in general were lovely with beautiful views. The website photos did not do justice to the exterior of the house, it was much more attractive. Enjoyed Least: I was pleased with the property on the whole, everything in working order and comfortable. However, would have preferred a more casual and larger living room area on the ground floor which is where the TV was located and 10 of us gathered in the evening. I would, however, recommend the property. Surrounding Area: We visited San Gimignano, Volterra, Siena, Pisa, Lucca, a winery and Florence and particularly loved the interesting walled towns. I felt the villa location was convenient so that our day trips were no more than an hour away. Nearby Events or Locales: Montespertoli was the nearest town - it was not within walking distance. Tips or Restaurants: A few restaurants were recommended by the keyholder and were fine. Our lunches were generally in the visited towns and the food was good everywhere. The Coop supermarket was a few miles away and various staples could be picked up there. II would suggest that it be taken care of the day of arrival as stores are closed on Sundays. The house was supplied with toilet paper, soap, kitchen soaps, spices plenty of towels which were replaced during the week. Directions: We had two 5 passenger cars equipped with GPS and had no problem getting to the property Pisa airport to villa or to other destinations. HIGHLY recommend using GPS - never got lost. Check In Out: It was very easy. The keyholders warmly greeted us and walked us through the rooms with explanations, etc. They were very friendly and accommodating going out of their way to help .”

Helpful Report

(Villa San Paolo) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: We had 13 in our group and the house comfortably accommodated everyone. The weather was very warm and the pool was a welcome spot every afternoon. A perfect location for touring the Chianti region and day trips to Florence and Siena. Enjoyed Most: We liked the pool and cabana and the dining table just outside the front door where we ate most of our meals. We had Francesca and Maria cook us a delicious six course dinner on two nights - well worth every penny! Enjoyed Least: The ants. We think it would be a good idea to provide a more detailed description of appliances and kitchenware so renters can plan accordingly. Surrounding Area: We liked the peace and quiet of the area and the ability to drive less than 20 minutes to hill towns in every direction. Drive east into the Chianti region and go to charming towns Castellina in Chianti and Greve in Chianti. Certaldo Alto is a hidden treasure nearby. Nearby Events or Locales: The two towns, Bagnano and Petrognano, are within walking distance, but really don't have any services. We did not eat at the two restaurants available nearby so can't comment on them. We walked in the morning to Petrognano for some exercise. The two main towns, Certaldo and Barberino Val d' Esa are just 10 minutes by car. Tips or Restaurants: The hill town of Certaldo Alto, just above Certaldo has a wonderful restaurant called Osteria del Vicario where we had a delicious lunch and dinner. Make sure you have someone stock the pantry with paper towels, plastic bags, dish washing soap, etc. before you arrive since stores are closed on Sunday, making it nearly impossible to get anything before Monday. We made arrangements for the refrigerator to be stocked with breakfast supplies upon arrival, but wished we had asked for other items too. Check In Out: Mario was very easy going and made the check-in-out simple. He provided us with a bottle of wine and access to the locally produced wine if we desired.”

Helpful Report

(Villa Barberino) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: We had a great time and would highly recommend it to others. Enjoyed Most: Location, the view and the terrace. Enjoyed Least: Minor irritants were the smell from the sewer vent and the sound of the building generator. Surrounding Area: Being slightly off the beaten tourist path but still close to everything. Tips or Restaurants: The kitchen was better stocked than we expected. We made frequent trips to the Magi grocer nearby.”

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(Palazzo Torrigiani - Figaro) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: We had a lot of rain and cool weather. The owner was very helpful. Enjoyed Most: Historical and roomy. Enjoyed Least: No parking as a result of the renovation of the Piazza. Surrounding Area: Close to the Piazza and town. Directions: Be sure to call the owner 30 minutes before arrival.”

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(Vita Bella) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: The apartment was great. It was bigger than a hotel room and having the kitchen let us cut some of our food expenses by eating in after shopping at the nearby grocery. Even though our flight was 5 hours late, our greeter was cheerful and helpful. This is our second Rentvillas.com experience and I would definitely choose them over other rental groups because I trust them. Enjoyed Most: It was a great location and having an apartment made us much more comfortable than having a hotel. We cut costs by eating meals "at home" and it really felt like home. Enjoyed Least: There was a slight smell, so we had to open the window when we arrived. Small things were lacking - no clock no alarm, no soap dish in shower, no bottle opener. I would recommend owners move into their apartments for a couple days to test what the experience would be like and fill in what is missing. Surrounding Area: The location was great, filled with bars, cafe, shopping, and centrally located to the Louvre, Tuileries, etc. Tips or Restaurants: Climbing the stairs will allow you to eat another croissant!”

Helpful Report

(Les Halles 1) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: The villa is lovely and Carmelo is a gracious host. His grounds are beautiful and the pool is very nice. The location is good--not far from Taormina or the highway. Enjoyed Most: The grounds were meticulously cared for by the gardener and the owner. It was also next door to one of the better, lesser known, restaurants in that area. The villa is well maintained and has all the amenitites. Enjoyed Least: There is a blind curve in front of the villa leading to the intersection and many of the cars honked so that others would know they were coming. Editor's Note: See note above. Surrounding Area: The villa is in a quiet area near Graniti. Across the road is a sheep farm and the mountain views were lovely. It was away from the tourist areas but close enough to get there in 15-20 minutes. Nearby Events or Locales: Gaggi is the nearest small town. It is probably about 2-3 km--walkable but a dangerous road to walk on. We needed a car for Sicily to get to the store and local restaurants as well as other places in Sicily. Tips or Restaurants: I don't remember the name of the restaurant next door but it is a very short walk and the food was very good. Usually, we were by ourselves and the owner was an enjoyable fellow. No menus but great food. La Zagara in Gaggi was also pretty good and reasonable.”

Helpful Report

(Villa Due Angeli - Gabriel Residence) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: We arrived by train and walked through the main piazza, rumbling our bags along behind us. We were very impressed with the property and its location in relation to the train station and the Cinque Terre, our main reason for choosing this location. Enjoyed Most: It was well appointed, with plenty of plates, glasses and cutlery, nice accommodation, with 3 bathrooms and living areas separate from the bedrooms, and lots of terraces to see the view. All of the bedrooms had views, and you could hear the waves lying in bed at night. Enjoyed Least: The heating was on some automatic system. We had a short blackout one day which interfered with the system, and we could not figure out how to get it back on properly. I spent a couple of nights being uncomfortably cold, although the rest of my family didn't feel it as I did. Surrounding Area: The town itself was pretty, and there were quite a few places to explore. In warmer weather, we would have made more use of the beach. We predominantly chose the place for its close access to the Cinque Terre, which we really loved. Nearby Events or Locales: The towns are coastal and separated by steep hills. I believe there are walks, but we didn't attempt them. There are regular trains connecting all the towns, and winding roads. The closest Cinque Terre town was 2 stops and about 10 minutes on the train. Tips or Restaurants: The Casa was well appointed and there are 2 markets in Bonassola where you can get almost anything you need. There are also several Foccacieras, handy for satisfying lunches, and bread to go with dinner. We ate twice at the restaurant at the northern end of the piazza next to the church. It was good, local food, and the chef-owner spent time with us trying to explain the dishes on the menu. Check In Out: A wonderful housekeeper met us, showed us around, and returned later that night to cook a fantastic enormous meal. She had a little English, and we managed to communicate. Our children really liked her, too.”

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(Casa Rossini) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: We had a great time! Enjoyed Most: The villa was beautiful and was equipped with everything we needed. Enjoyed Least: We were asked to pay for wood after we were originally told we could use it and they would bring more, although in the end, we were not required to pay. Surrounding Area: The restaurant that was located within 50M of the villa was fantastic meal, although it was a little more expensive than we were use too. Nearby Events or Locales: The nearest small town of Montespertoli is 6 km away; therefore anyone renting the villa will need a vehicle. Tips or Restaurants: You definitely need to have a car at this property. Check In Out: The owners were very accommodating as we checked in on Sunday.”

Helpful Report

(Poggio Sant'Andrea - Sale) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: The property was just as expected - a wonderful, authentically Tuscan, peaceful retreat with a fantastic location. Enjoyed Most: The location in the hills of Tuscany, and close to many of the nicest parts - villages of the Sienese Crete area. Enjoyed Least: The 2 bedrooms have a very thin wall between them - so there is not much privacy at all. Surrounding Area: Very peaceful, rural, unspoilt and not too touristed. Nearby Events or Locales: Castelmuzio was not a very viable walk - we had planned to walk there each day, but involved a lot of uphill walking with not too much good scenery to compensate. Tips or Restaurants: It is ideal for a family with 2 children - but I wouldn't go as 2 couples, as we did. There is a good restaurant right near the turnoff to the villa off the main road leading through Castelmuzio. Directions: A signposted name at the villa would be helpful, since we only knew we had arrived by recognising it from photos on your website.”

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(Casa Plebana) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: We had a very good time in this property. Enjoyed Most: The location was outstanding as all the major sites were within easy, short walking distance. Enjoyed Least: The lofts took a little getting used to. Surrounding Area: The property is behind the Savoy and Piazza de Republica so it was easy to find and centrally located. Nearby Events or Locales: The property is in the heart of Florence. Tips or Restaurants: If you have small children the lofts could be dangerous.”

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(Loggia Reale) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: The person who met us was wonderful, and her boyfriend carried our big bag up the stairs. Enjoyed Most: The view from the terrace. Enjoyed Least: 104 Steps. Surrounding Area: Sorrento was awesome Tips or Restaurants: Bring CDs, cards, or board games. The TV is in Italian”

Helpful Report

(Baleno) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: The owners-hosts were wonderful and VERY helpful with everything!!!!!! Enjoyed Most: I think my favorite part of our villa was our beautiful veranda where the view and the setting were so relaxing. Enjoyed Least: If I had to say something, it would be the size of the kitchen, only because we enjoy doing our own cooking. Surrounding Area: San Gimignano was beautiful and Siena and Florence were just a short drive away. Nearby Events or Locales: San Gimignano was the closest town and you could definitely walk it with comfortable shoes. Tips or Restaurants: Remember to do your grocery shopping before you check in on Saturday as Pam does close at 8:00pm and is also closed Sunday. I had compiled a list of ingredients from other comments on your website which made it nice and simple so we could enjoy our first meal in Tuscany. Check In Out: The owners-hosts couldn't have been more welcoming.”

Helpful Report

(Il Cortile Del Borgo 14) - Posted 17 years ago

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