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

“Overall: San Barberino is a great place to base Tuscany trips from and the villa is a comfortable, convenient home to come back to at the end of the day. We were so busy during the days that we didn't really have time to use the pool but I managed to squeeze in a quick dip one night after everyone else was in bed. It's down the hill from the house but the path and pool were well lighted. The air was cool so I didn't linger. On a sunny August day, I can imagine that was the place to be after a day of sightseeing. Enjoyed Most: Location, location, location. With a car we were less than half an hour from Volterra, San Gimignano, Colle di Val d'Elsa, Siena, and Florence (actually 40 minutes). Greve and all the "in Chianti" towns were a leisurely hour drive over the mountain. And the manager was wonderful, helping us arrange reservations to dinner and museums, giving us a copy of the bus schedule to Florence - very convenient - and telling us about the Internet access in the town library. Enjoyed Least: The back of the house, with 2 bedrooms and the kitchen, is right on the main road through town, so road noise was occasionally noticed, though usually not a problem. Waking up to the sound of people driving to work is not an unpleasant way to begin the day if you're on vacation yourself. At night, I was too tired from the day's travels to notice any road noise. The master bedroom - the one with the views off to the Tuscan sunset - had no problems with the road noise. Surrounding Area: Do take the manager up on the wine tasting offer. The owners of the villa also have a large vineyard and winery about 2 km outside San Barberino and they enjoy showing off the results of their life's labors. The day we went was also the first day of the harvest with the full moon the night before! and we passed the stems and skins of the first crush as we entered. They'd prepared a wonderful plate of cinghiale salumi, assorted peccorino cheeses, and Tuscan breads to accompany the first-rate wines that they served. The wines included a 2004 Chianti Classico and a 100 Sangiovese Super Tuscan - both wonderful wines. Nearby Events or Locales: You are in San Barberino and can walk up the hill to the small grocery store in 2 minutes, the wonderful Campenillino restaurant in 3 minutes, and the Bar on the other side of the hill in just 5 minutes. Because San Barberino is perched atop a ridge, you have wonderful glimpses of the the surrounding Tuscan landscapes as you walk through the old town. Tavarnelle is a short 2 km drive if you need the greater selection of the COOP grocery or want to try out another local restaurant Tips or Restaurants: The library is just up the hill from the villa, a 2 minute walk, and that's where you can get on the internet. Unfortunately, it's only open 4 hours each day since the librarian spends the other 4 hours at the library in Tavarnelle. The hours alternate from morning to afternoon. The kitchen is pretty well equipped - about the only thing we needed to bring was a cutting board.”

Helpful Report

(San Barberino 2) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: Located in the pre-medieval part of Cortona. Beautifully restored. Enjoyed Most: The owner was most helpful, and his mother provided a wonderful meal for us upon our arrival. Ivan also brought us fresh vegetables from his farm, and his mother gave is a delicious Tiramisu dessert. Enjoyed Least: My wife and I are 83, and the walk down to the shops and back is on a 45 degree angle cobblestone street. That is tough, especially coming back up. So any future renters should be in tip-top shape. Tips or Restaurants: We drove to Assisi, took the ferry to Isola Maggiore on Lago Trasimeno, drove to Siena and Montepulciano, to taste the Vino Nobile - excellent! We definitely should have had a cell phone! As far as restaurants are concerned, we recommend the "Osteria Del Teatro."”

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(Casa Berrettini) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: Overall, a beautiful place. Enjoyed Most: The home is beautiful, spacious and well cared for and maintained. The patio and garden are wonderful. Enjoyed Least: Barking dogs. Surrounding Area: Montalcino is a beautiful mountain-top city and the environs are beautiful. We were there during the harvest and did a lot of wine tasting. Siena is nearby. Tips or Restaurants: Many great restaurants with lots of opportunities for wine tasting. Bring ear plugs. Check In Out: The woman who checked us in didn't know a word of english, so it was sign language all the way.”

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(Villa Montalcino) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: We had a superb week with everyone mixing marvellously. Enjoyed Most: The situation is magnificent. The opportunity to either do things cycling, tennis, table tennis, swim or just relax. Enjoyed Least: The cook top was difficult. We ate in most of the time and did overcome it but the gas part of it is difficult. Also, it is sad that the 3 upper bedrooms have a shower room between 3 bedrooms. You need to watch the plumbing as taps can come off in your hand. Surrounding Area: The 2 rivers, the Loire and the Vienne are really nice. The towns of Chinon and Saumur are also lovely to walk around. Nearby Events or Locales: There is Beamont but it is not really a town. The nearest town is Chinon which is 10 minutes by car. Tips or Restaurants: There are many restaurants and French food is justifiably regarded as the best. The supermarkets are well stocked and cover most things you need.”

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(Chateau De Valerie) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: Overall it was a great week! The weather was perfect and we were able to absolutely relax! Our side trips were very easy and we were able to get back in time for a swim. Enjoyed Most: The pool area was very clean and very well kept. Sunset from the pool area was spectacular. Plus all the tree-lined roads leading up to our villa added to the charm. Bedrooms were spacious and bathrooms were well kept, air-conditioning was a nice perk. Enjoyed Least: There were lots of extra charges: Internet service, pool towels were 9 Euros per person, wine tasting and tour, which we didn't do, at 17 Euros per person. Also, we only had one change of towels during our stay, contrary to the daily change as listed. Also no DVD player as listed. We also had a problem with ants on our patio - but they took care of that after we mentioned it to them. Surrounding Area: Very accessible to many areas. We did Pisa and Lucca in one day, also did the Cinque Terre area in a day. Supermarkets and a nice restaurant were all near by. The estate was big enough to go on nice long runs in private, secure area. Nearby Events or Locales: Capanne was only about 2 miles away...you could walk 1.2 miles would be within the villa estate. We are a walking family so it was definitely doable for us. Tips or Restaurants: Bring insect spray. Tuscan mosquitoes are big!!”

Helpful Report

(Fattoria Capponi - Valentino) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: This is an excellent rental property with a great staff and a most convenient location for most places in Northern Tuscany including Siena and Florence. Enjoyed Most: Spectacular view, convenient location, fairly easy to get to, staff was excellent, dinner on the property was excellent, also. Enjoyed Least: Stairs were a chore after a while, lighting was poor, tiny tiny shower, lack of towels was a problem. Surrounding Area: Loved San Gimignano being five minutes away. Loved the Pam Market. Also, it's Tuscany and it's beautiful and very easy to enjoy. Tips or Restaurants: Bring coffee if you are Americano, pool towels, book light if you like to read at night. We found the bug spray unnecessary. You should try two restaurants in San Gimignano, Il Pino and Il Castello, don't eat in Poggibonsi. We had the worst pizza in our lives there. How sad is that? Directions: Just follow the signs. Check In Out: They would not allow you to carry your bags - Thank God - and I could not tip them for it; they flat out refused to accept a tip.”

Helpful Report

(Il Cortile Del Borgo 5) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: The property is a wonderful combination of the old and new. The house has great character, heavy wood beams in the ceiling, and a marvelous view of the old pigeonnier. Enjoyed Most: It has four nice sized bedrooms with 3 very nice bathrooms. It looked very much like the pictures on the website. The owners were very nice and helpful. Surrounding Area: The surrounding area was quaint and pleasant. Nearby Events or Locales: The nearest small town is Doville and it was within walking distance. But it has houses only. The nearest town with shops, restaurants, etc. is La Haye du Puits and it is not within walking distance, but is a quick drive away. Directions: Finding the place requires paying careful attention to the written directions. But if you pay attention to the directions, you will find it without too much problem. Check In Out: The owner checked us in and was very friendly and explained everything well. They have thought through just about everything that someone would ask and took the time to explain where everything is, etc.”

Helpful Report

(Le Manoir Normand) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: We enjoyed it. Enjoyed Most: The view was exceptional. Enjoyed Least: The upstairs bedroom and the access through the bathroom. Surrounding Area: The pool area, the view, and the nearby villages. Nearby Events or Locales: Varenna was a 20 minute slow walk downhill and even slower back. Tips or Restaurants: Be prepared for the second bedroom. Directions: Long winding road to reach destination.”

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(Casa Antonella 2) - Posted 17 years ago

“Enjoyed Most: Beaulieu in general and the villa location in particular are beautiful and occupy the very best location in the Riviera. The villa is new, modern, light and extremely well appointed. Enjoyed Least: The second and third bedrooms are not equipped with en suite bathrooms. Surrounding Area: Amazing views and great walks and drives along the choice locations of the Riviera. There was also a great selection of cafes and restaurants. Thanks to the special arrangements made by the villa owner, Beaulieu is reasonably accessible on foot, though not as easy as the promotional material suggested. Tips or Restaurants: Do not try to find your way by car. It is impossibly complicated to locate the entrance road and the drive is hair-raising for the first few days. Accept the offer of the villa owner, who is most helpful and charming as is his wife, to meet you in the town and then follow him. Directions: The generosity and kindness of the villa owners, who live in the adjacent villa, more than compensate for this. In all other respects the arrival arrangements were splendid”

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(Villa Beaulieu) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: It was an excellent property. I would rent it again without a second thought. Enjoyed Most: Location. Enjoyed Least: Nothing Surrounding Area: Close to historic sights.”

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(Palazzo Belle Donne - Estella) - Posted 17 years ago

“Enjoyed Most: Size and external area. Enjoyed Least: The noise of the sprinkler system which came on many times in the night, and the dogs barking in two farms, one in front and one behind the villa.”

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(Villa Andreina - 10) - Posted 17 years ago

“Enjoyed Most: Size and external area. Enjoyed Least: The noise of the sprinkler system which came on many times in the night, and the dogs barking in two farms, one in front and one behind the villa.”

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(Villa Andreina - 14) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: Overall a good experience. Enjoyed Most: The house and yard was gorgeous. Also, that the owners were very sensitive about whether we were happy with the house. If we had any questions they were responsive. We had a great time. Enjoyed Least: Loved it all! Surrounding Area: The location is not very pretty. The house sat up on a hill, so it was an oasis, but the seaside area below is way overdeveloped, and full of low budget groups who are really there for the all night partying and drinking. It was not somewhere we wanted to walk around with children”

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(Villa Hersonissos) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: We had a lovely time at the villa. They were very nice and the surroundings were beautiful. Thanks,. Tips or Restaurants: We didn't read the description carefully. We thought we were renting a villa, rather than an apartment.”

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(Casa Dei Venti - Il Libeccio) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: I would definitely book again. Enjoyed Most: We had a beautiful view from our bed of the sun rising each morning. Very nice pool. Also, the owners were wonderful hosts. Their mother prepared dinner 3 nights a week for the guests. They cooked true Tuscan dishes that were delicious and a bargain compared to the restaurants. A great way to meet other guests and trade experiences. Enjoyed Least: The living area was a little sparse and couch was not very comfortable. But we didn't sit around very much anyway. The beds were very nice and comfortable. Surrounding Area: The peaceful setting and wonder views. Nearby Events or Locales: San Gimignano was a 10 minute drive. Too far to walk Tips or Restaurants: Bring wash cloths and bar of soap. We didn't do any cooking but the kitchen seems to be stocked with enough dishes, pots, pans and utensils.We ate at 2 excellent restaurants. My favorite was Trattoria Chiribiri at Piazza della Madonna Ph 0577 941948. I had Osso Buco and crepe with spinach, meat sauce and cheese. No credit cards and very small; need reservation.Also ate 2 times at La Vecchio Mura. I had pork cooked with Saffron. It was so tender and yummy. My husband had Lasagna, He said it the best he ever had. He also tried Wild Boar in white wine sauce and it was very tender. Directions: We didn't have any problems finding it, but we had a GPS. Check In Out: Our luggage was brought to our room at check-in and delivered to our car at check-out.”

Helpful Report

(Il Cortile Del Borgo 11) - Posted 17 years ago

“Enjoyed Most: Location in central Bath behind Royal Crescent, with access to many local and regional attractions. A comfortable, nicely finished apartment. Very close to convenience store, easy walk to a good full-range supermarket, Waitrose. Off-street car park garage also within easy walking distance. Provision of a welcome basket with breakfast cereal, fruit, milk etc. also a nice touch - more than the typical teabag and dry cookies. The housekeeper was very helpful and friendly, particularly when there was a minor problem with the lock-up garage when the outside doors malfunctioned. Enjoyed Least: Second bedroom is small and difficult to get around the bed without crawling over it. Kitchen-dining area arrangement is tight for getting four people around to serve meals etc. Only one bathroom in apartment accommodating four adults.The apartment is on the 3rd floor in US terms. Access for elderly could be a problem - although walking up and down the hills in Bath is no easier, and the view is better because of the height. Surrounding Area: More good things to see than possible on any holiday. Tips or Restaurants: Rental properties with kitchens never seem to have good sharp knives or good can openers, even if otherwise well equipped. If you're happy to make do that's OK, otherwise bring your own. The Bath tourist bus is a waste of time for the loop through the central city - makes long pauses in not very scenic locations, and very slow progress in general, if you want to use it as a shuttle between destinations. However, it is essential if you want to get out to the skyline walk and Prior Park to the south-east of town - both are lovely.”

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(Caroline) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: Great for the price. Enjoyed Most: The location- close walk to the beach. Enjoyed Least: The graffiti by the pool. Surrounding Area: The water Nearby Events or Locales: Rental cars are necessary. Tips or Restaurants: Go on a boat tour in Villasimius...the drive is beautiful...bring beach towels, restaurants are cheap, rental cars necessary.”

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(Villa Sabbia) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: The villa was extremely clean and well presented. The owner was also lovely. Very helpful. Enjoyed Most: Location The owner was extremely helpful. Enjoyed Least: Lack of hot water in the kitchen. Surrounding Area: The view and quietness of the area. Nearby Events or Locales: Stressa was not within walking distance. However there were some lovely small villages within walking distance of the villa. Tips or Restaurants: Bring mosquito repellant. 10 Commandments restaurant in a nearby village.”

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(Villa Della Colomba) - Posted 17 years ago

“Enjoyed Most: The privacy, views, ease, and safety of the property. The on-site owners who were gracious hosts. Ah, yes, and the pool. We appreciated that we could borrow CDs and DVDs. We enjoyed the BBC TV channels. The ping pong table and board games were fun, too. Being able to use the clothes washer was very helpful. Enjoyed Least: We thought long and hard about this one, but came up with nothing about the property that we found negative. About the surrounding area -- driving through some very narrow streets, not very good street signs or no street signs, difficulty finding a parking space. When paying to park, keep the ticket that you get when you enter the garage with you and pay using the automatic pay stations before you exit. Surrounding Area: Recommend driving to the ruins near Bolonia, walking in the old town Estepona, and taking tours to Gibraltar and Tangier, Morocco with the tour group VDT. Get tickets from Benamar travel agency on main road in Estepona. Request pickup in front of Hotel Elba so that you can walk to the pickup spot. Nearby Events or Locales: You need to drive to Estepona and pay to park. You can walk to the beach in about 5 minutes -- just walk down the street and across the pedestrian bridge and you are there. Tips or Restaurants: The hosts created a book for the villa that provides excellent tips on surrounding restaurants and day trips. Directions: We recommend flying into Gibraltar. The small airport was very convenient. It was easy to walk to pick up the rental car in Spain and then drive to the villa in 40 minutes. Check In Out: We got a very helpful "orientation" tour of the villa, room by room, and of the grounds and common areas.”

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(Estepona - La Fuente) - Posted 18 years ago

“Overall: We had a great time staying in this apartment and highly recommend it. Enjoyed Most: The location of this place was really great. It is situated along a nice street with restaurants and shops. Very quiet and nice view as well. Enjoyed Least: Apartment was great overall. My only complaint would be that there was not a full set of linens for the roll-away bed. As shown in the photos, the kitchen is galley style in a cabinet and did not include an oven. However, it was adequately stocked with dishes, glasses etc. and had everything we needed to prepare a simple dinner. Surrounding Area: We loved the location as we could walk everywhere. The Coliseum, Forum, and Trastevere are all a short walk. Tips or Restaurants: Bring a reading light or flashlight, as lighting is a little dim in the place. We brought some hand towels which proved useful as apartment was only stocked with bath towels. Also, if you plan to use the sofa bed, there was not a full set of sheets, pillows etc. As far as restaurants, there are a few on the same street as the apartment that are pretty good - they really push the fried artichokes..a friend recommended Vecchia Roma one block north of the apartment and it was excellent - an elegant kind of old-school place. Also, we found a restaurant called Le Mani in Pasta in Trastevere fairly close to the apartment that was awesome - casual small place but great. Directions: Our Rentvillas Travel Advisor offered to arrange airport transportation and that was a good move as driver was waiting for us at the airport. The property manager in Rome also arranged a driver for airport transportation on our return and that went off without a hitch as well. Check In Out: An agent for the property manager met us on arrival and was very friendly and helpful.”

Helpful Report

(Ottavia) - Posted 18 years ago

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