Vacation Rentals by Owner

Do Not Miss This Apartment

Guest: Gary (Dallas, Texas)
Date of Stay: 04/18/12 Review Submitted: 05/14/12

We have been to Italy many times and wanted a true life in Tuscany experience. We chose Cortona although we had never been before. Lucia was extremely responsive in her emails to me before we went to Cortona. Once we arrived we knew we had finally found what we had been looking for. From the moment we arrived we felt like family and the apartment was even better than we could have hoped for. The views and the garden were stunning. Every morning and evening we went to the top of the etruschan wall and just took in the scenery. Do not miss the cooking lesson with Patrizia. We can't wait to try our new Italian cooking skills out on our friends. Cortona is great town to use as a base for exploring Tuscany and Umbria and Cortona was always our favorite place to return home to. The restaurants are great, the people are friendly and it doesn't feel like a tourist town. Lucia and her husband, Gian Luca, are now our new family in Italy, along with Lucia's mom, Patrizia. We are already planning our next visit, hopefully in December. If you are concerned about the climb back up the hill after a day or night in town, Lucia also now has an apartment in town on the main (level) street that is very nice. I have never found a better vacation rental in over 10 years of travel to Europe. I know we will go back and I would urge anyone looking for a real Tuscan vacation to spend some time at either Le Mura Etrusche or their apartment in town. Thanks again to our dear friends in Cortona, Patrizia, Lucia and Gian Luca!!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Absolutely Wonderful

Guest: carolmitch (Milwaukee, WI USA)
Date of Stay: 04/07/12 Review Submitted: 04/21/12

We had an absolutely wonderful experience with Patricia and Lucia in their lovely apartment. Do not miss having dinner made by Patricia. It really was the best meal we had in Italy. Patricia and Lucia were the ultimate hosts. After a theft of a backpack with our phone, rail tickets and travel documents in Florence, Patricia spent precious time with us at a travel agency replacing the rail tickets and Lucia allowed us use of her personal computer to reconstruct our trip. Without them our trip to Italy would have been seriously marred by the theft. The apartment was very comfortable and just at described. The kitchen was complete and Patricia's home made treats were so good. Do not hesitate to stay here. Our love to Patricia and Lucia.

Owner response:Dear Carolyn, I am very happy to hear you, I'm so sorry for your misfortune in Florence, I'm glad to have been able to help you and we are still waiting at home. Thank you for being a perfect customer

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

An Awesome Stay

Guest: Ohana (Kailua, HI USA)
Date of Stay: 03/26/12 Review Submitted: 05/15/12

We thoroughly enjoyed our Cortona vacation at Le Mura Etrusche. The unit was well equipped, clean and spacious with a modern kitchen, bathroom and washing machine too. The property is located at the top of Cortona overlooking the valley and provided the most beautiful orange sunsets each afternoon. Le Mura Etrusche is even more beautiful than what you see in the pictures. I can't say enough of Lucia and her mom, Patrizia. They are such warm, sincere, gracious hosts and make the extra effort to ensure you have a comfortable stay. We felt like we were visiting old friends. They provided enough information so you can enjoy Cortona, Camucia and the surrounding towns. Be sure to ask Patrizia to prepare a Tuscan dinner as this was the highlight of our vacation. The home cooked dinner was excellent and the company outstanding! We look forward to returning to Cortona and will definitely book our stay again at Le Mura Etrusche. Ciao ciao!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Travellers from the Land Of Oz

Guest: Louise (Bateau Bay Australia)
Date of Stay: 03/18/12 Review Submitted: 04/10/12

Our stay in Le Mura Etrusche was an absolute delight with Lucia and Patrizia going well above the call of duty to make our stay comfortable and memorable. Lucia provided transport to and from the train station and we greatly appreciated Patrizia taking us grocery shopping. Care to detail is obviously a priority to these owners who have included a number of items that came in handy and a huge arrange of cooking utensils for those who like to cook. Each day in Cortona was different and we enjoyed strolling the Piazza or going for walks around the village and beyond. We also enjoyed relaxing in the back garden, which is delightful. A high-light of our stay was a dinner cooked by Patrizia which we ate with the family and fully enjoyed. The apartment was just as described being clean, comfortable and well maintained. We will be recommending this apartment friends and relatives should they want to visit the area.

Owner response:A welcome and thanks to our first customers in 2012, a huge thank you for being able to make your acquaintance and hope you have made ??your unforgettable holiday in Cortona .... we are waiting for more .. a greeting. from all of us

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Highlight of Our Trip to Italy

Guest: Peggy & Bill (San Marino, CA/USA)
Date of Stay: 09/24/11 Review Submitted: 12/19/11

The three weeks my husband and I stayed in this absolutely lovely apartment, Le Mura Etrusche, were the highlight of our trip to Italy. The scenic view from our front door was the view other tourists came to photograph. We overlooked the town of Cortona climbing down the hill to the surrounding plain of Arezzo farmland. The garden and overlook from the adjoining Etruscan wall were beautiful oases from which we enjoyed coffee and "our Cortona". Hosts Patrizia and Lucia were welcoming and went out of their way with thoughtful, helpful information and friendship that made our experience of a Tuscan hill town more than we'd even dreamed. We thoroughly enjoyed, also, the olive oil, liqueurs, preserves, and a dinner of other delicacies prepared by Patrizia. The apartment is tastefully decorated with antique pieces and colorful accents with television, DVD and CD players in the living/dining room. The Siemen's stainless steel kitchen is a delight to work in. The glass and stainless steel bathroom is avant garde in design. The queen size bed is comfortable with dimming lights and a reading lamp for bedside reading. There are plenty of warm covers when needed for cool nights, and clean linens are provided weekly. The town is full of beautiful, old buildings and especially churches for exploring from the winding, narrow streets that are well worth the considerable climbing. The churches contain the art of Fra Angelico and other lesser known local artists. The artisan shops, restaurants with their stand-up coffee bars and outdoor eating areas, the small grocery store for picnic supplies, the bakeries and gelato stands, the park for passeggiare (strolling) and the farmer's market on Saturdays make for a rich and wonderful experience of Italian culture. (Don't miss the porcetta sandwiches at the market if you eat pork and the Perugina chocolates if you don't!) And, of course, Bramasole, the house from Under the Tuscan Sun is nearby. The countryside is full of picturesque cypress and olive trees, and in the distance is Lake Castiglione. Bus service runs regularly from Cortona to nearby Camucia for the major grocery store, COOP, and the train station for day trips to other hill towns. Two hours north by train is Florence and two hours south is Rome. We hope to one day return and bring our family with us to experience the joys of staying in Le Mura Etrusche. We tell everyone about our trip and recommend these accommodations to them all! Ciao!

Owner response:Hello Peggy, thank you very much for your wonderful review, and soniamo very happy that coming into our apartment was a nice experience for you, I thank also the time spent together and I hope to one day know your family. The apartment was perfect when you started. Thanks again for the heart

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

skibum (Maine)

Guest: Jeanne and Keith (Topsham, Maine)
Date of Stay: 09/16/11 Review Submitted: 10/19/11

My husband and I spent a week in Umbria and then wanted to spend a few days in Tuscany because we love it so much. We picked this place because it looked so charming and we had not spent any time in Cortona on our previous trips. Cortona was a lovely city, albeit very hilly and a steep climb to our "home". Lucia and Patrizia were the most gracious, charming and fun hosts we could ever want. We arrived in the afternoon to a lovely 4 course lunch in their home. Patrizia does not speak much english,but she was such fun and so kind...and a great cook. Our kitchen was stocked with some homemade limonocello and some jams she had made, along with bread and fruit and everything we would need for our first morning. The apartment was spotless, comfortable and very modern. The kitchen was contemporary as well as the bath. The fixtures were top notch...plus wi-fi was installed. As old as the home is...it is completely modernized. The sunsets from the garden and walls were stunning. Rudy, the dog was a gem. On the day we left Patrizia gave us some fig jam she had made because she knew how much we love the Italian figs. She is so kind. It was an easy drive into the heart of Tuscany....Siena or Greve or San Gim. The walk into Cortona was a breeze, but the hike back up, well lets just say , make sure your legs are strong. Overall , a delightful stay and lovely hosts.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Piece of Heaven

Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 08/13/11 Review Submitted: 12/18/11

We stayed a week this summer in this beautiful apartment. I can't say enough about our kind and generous hostesses, Patriza and Lucia. They not only welcomed us to their wonderful home, but made us feel like old friends. The apartment is immaculate, airy, and walking distance to the center of town. Down hill to town, uphill back. However, that's an Italian town. We only used our car once during the week because we wanted to experience Cortona, so we walked everywhere....but many towns are a short drive away. The bathroom and kitchen are modern, with numerous special touches like home-made jams, liquours, honey, and olive oil. Every gadget you could think of is in the kitchen and WORKS. We cooked many meals in the evening (great pasta shop in town), took our walk on the cobblestoned streets (enjoyed a concert one night a few streets away from the apartment), and then sipped our lattes as we watched the sunset from our front door steps. When we left, Patriza and Lucia both kissed us good-bye and gave us gifts to remember our fabulous week...limoncello (husband's favorite), photos, and a calendar (that is on my desk right now). Believe me, this is a piece of heaven. We hope to be back someday. We are seasoned travelers and have been to Europe many times....could stay here for a month.

Owner response:Dear, what a pleasure to receive your great review, try to finish early limoncello, so navete an excuse to return to Cortona!! See you soon.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect combination of Cortona city location and quiet garden with stunning views

Guest: Petra (Amsterdam)
Date of Stay: 07/30/11 Review Submitted: 10/11/11

We (family with child age 14) were looking for an apartment with a garden but within walking distance of restaurants and shops in Cortona. To our surprise we did find one which also had very good (excellent) reviews. Too good to be true! As the apartment was already booked in the week we planed our visit, we even changed our travel plans. We were not sure about the size of the garden, as that is difficult to judge on basis of the pictures. Believe me: it is huge! The views are stunning and you can move the (deck) chairs around to find sun or shade as you wish. The apartment itself is spacious, nicely decorated with a new modern kitchen and bathroom. It is very quiet. The owners, Lucia and her mother Patricia are very warm and welcoming. We had a wonderful meal in their home. They even send us some pictures which we received some weeks after our stay. We highly reccomend this appartment. Our next visit to Cortona will definitely include a stay in this perfect place!

Owner response:we raccomend this guest it's a perfect family, love and friendly. the daughter of highly educated.We look forward next year with your friends. Thank you for making your knowledge

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Tuscan Holiday

Guest: Nature Lover (Arkansas)
Date of Stay: 06/15/11 Review Submitted: 07/06/11

My husband and I choose this property because we wanted to experience Italian culture, not just visit the normal tourist areas. Our time here greatly exceeded our expectations. Luccia met us at the train station, made sure we would be comfortable in the apartment, and gave us a tour of the gardens upon our arrival. Everything was exactly as described and pictured. It is a comfortable, newly updated apartment that was immaculately clean with the most beautiful gardens outside for us to enjoy. Patrizia and Luccia were the friendliest, most helpful owners we have ever rented a vacation home from The advice of places to visit and local events to attend were just what we were looking for. The dinner prepared by Patrizia was wonderful. We enjoyed our visits to Lago Trasimeno, Orvieto, Arezzo, and especially the many days roaming the streets of Cortona. Our favorite activity was sitting on the Etruscan walls or on the front step watching the sunset while listening to the local church bells. This apartment is appropriate for anyone, even having a swimming pool for those with children. I will definitely recommend this rental to any of my friends who plan to visit Italy.

Owner response:Our friends of the duck dinner !!!!!!! Perfect people who have full respect for all, hoping to see us the next time the first week of July for the great festivals of the duck !!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks for insertion into your blog, and for photos!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Fantastic Experience, Wonderful People and Beautiful Place.

Guest: Samantha A. (Boston, MA)
Date of Stay: 05/29/11 Review Submitted: 08/24/11

My husband and I stayed here for a week at the beginning of June and had the most wonderful experience. Patriza is a very gracious hostess and she really went out of her way to make us feel welcome. We were on a two week vacation through Italy, Paris and Amsterdam and this was by far the most special part of our trip. The accommodations are very comfortable and the house is great. The bathroom was very up to date and clean, and they have a modern easy to use kitchen. Patriza's gardens in the back are beautiful and I enjoyed sitting out there, with a glass of wine and my book while enjoying the tuscan sun. The walk into town is definitely steep but a great way to burn off all the wine, truffles, pasta, cheese and all the other wonderful cuisine Cortona has to offer. Everything from the lunch we had upon arrival to the festival she invited us to to later that week was so awesome, authentic and fun. We felt that she respected our privacy perfectly but also made us feel very welcome. Her dog Rudy is adorable (and gave me my dog fix b/c i missed our so much) and although we didn't get to meet Lucia because she was away, we had a great experience working with her on booking our stay. It happened to be my birthday while we were there and to say that Patriza went out of her way to make it special is an understatement! We have traveled all around Tuscany and Cortona is a very special place and our favorite destination in this area. Thank you for a wonderful stay and I know we will definitely return! Hopefully Linda and Gordon will be there again too! Grazie! Sam

Owner response:Dear Samantha, I hope to have you again as our guest to be able to get to know you. I am very sorry to be left for their honeymoon during your stay. I knew you were special guests. See you soon

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Wonderful Visit

Guest: Beth M. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 05/20/11 Review Submitted: 06/08/11

The Etruscan Walls apartment as it is situated right at the top of the town of Cortona. The walk home from restaurants is steep, but worth the effort, as the views from the gardens and the front stoop (where I loved to sit and watch the sunset) are beyond spectacular. The house has character in the original fireplace and stone walls, but the kitchen and bathroom are state of the art and very well equipped. We had one too short week in this lovely apartment, graciously hosted by Patriza and Lucia. They were very helpful, directing us to restaurants and arranging ffor a wine-tasting at a nearby vineyard. Patriza made us a delightful Italian lunch which we booked after tasting her welcome basket of home made preserves and lemon cream. Parking is close. You can drive right to the door, and if brave enough right into town, but we chose to drink and climb. The location is great for touring Tuscany and Umbria. There is a beautiful (and horizontal) walk out through the Porta Montanina that leads to a cafe and a different delightful view. I would recommend this apartment to my friends.

Owner response:Thank you for your review and your advice, hoping to give you yet another reception in our apartment. We wait you and wait your friends!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

May 14-20 2011

Guest: kathy (Portland)
Date of Stay: 05/14/11 Review Submitted: 05/31/11

My husband and I were very pleased with our stay here and with the lovely hillside town of Cortona. Lucia and Patrizia were the perfect hosts for our 6 night, 7 day tour of Tuscany. The apartment was large and beautifully remodeled with modern amenities and personal touches. The honey, home made olive oil and elderberry liquor were especially wonderful! We rented a car in Camucia and were able to make easy day trips to Siena, Florence, Assisi, Orvieto and Monepulciano and still make it back for the sunset and dinner and wine in town. The steep walk back up the hill after dinner helped to keep us from gaining weight from all the eating and drinking and provided us with some great laughs and memories! The last night of our trip was spent with Lucia and Patrizia enjoying the most amazing home cooked meal....may I suggest the Pici with crumbs? Yummmyyy!! We speak almost no Italian, but were able to have a lively conversation with our most gracious dinner companions. The assortment of homemade liquors after dinner and dessert were especially wonderful!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wonderful stay

Guest: Anne and Tom (Kamloops)
Date of Stay: 05/09/11 Review Submitted: 06/03/11

We can't say enough about the hospitality we received at the Etruscan Walls. We feel like Patrizia and Lucia are now family. This apartment in a home built in the 1300's and beautifully renovated, was a treasure and we feel so fortunate to have stayed there. There is a large garden with incredible views behind the house and we enjoyed relaxing there. The apartment had everything we needed, no detail was overlooked. We had a cooking class with Patrizia that was such a great experience. She is truly an artist in her kitchen. Cortona is one of the most beautiful places on earth and we hope to return someday.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A magical place

Guest: Moriatti (Victoria, Canada)
Date of Stay: 04/30/11 Review Submitted: 05/17/11

We spent a week in May with Lucia and Patrizia. Words cannot describe the kindness and hospitality we received from these wonderful ladies. Not to mention the food Patrizia prepared for a our family reunion. The five course Tuscan dinner rendered us speechless. The gardens are wonderful with a stunning view to the surrounding countryside. The Etruscan wall is literally part of the garden. We enjoyed many unforgettable sunsets from the wall. The house sits on the top of the city away from the busy part of Cortona. Yet, a short walk from the center. Lucia and Patrizia's recommendations were spot on. See our review of Trattoria Dardano on Tripadviser. The apartment was immaculate and the kitchen is completely set up for home cooking. Compliments from Patrizia's kitchen were waiting for us in the fridge. It is a perfect location for Tuscan excursions or just stay home and relax in the garden. Patrizia and Lucia, thank you and see you soon.

Owner response:Hello dear friends, Attila how's your cold !!!!! I'm finally cured! Thank you for making your knowledge and have spent some wonderful days with you. thanks for the recipe of the syrup for summer drinks that will remind us of the time spent together. We wait still here with us, maybe in the summer so we can arrange a barbecue in the garden and eat meat with the sunset lights up the table!! A hug from Cortona

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, romantic getaway.

Can't wait to return!

Guest: Robyn & Adam (San Francisco, Ca.)
Date of Stay: 04/17/11 Review Submitted: 05/06/11

My husband and I spend a good amount of time trying to find the perfect place to spend a week in Tuscany for our one year anniversary. We wanted a quiet, old place to stay with views and a personal authentic touch. After reading the reviews we chose the apartment in the Etruscan Wall and looked forward to meeting Lucia and Patrizia. The gardens and the apartment are even better than the pictures could express. The apartment has a modern kitchen and bath with old rock walls and antiques. Fab! Their warmth and hospitality was out of this world. Unfortunately Patrizia was away on vacation but Lucia and Gian Luca were instant family to us. The oils, jams, and liquers they make are such a sweet touch. Although planning their wedding they were incredibly attentive to our questions and made our trip even more fun. They even took us to the traditional Easter events and made us Easter morning Brunch. The garden is actually a gorgeous huge terraced yard we had all to ourselves, relaxing as we listened to the birds sing and the bees buzz. The views from the old wall at sunset might be the best anywhere. The restaurants in town are delicious and at good prices. Liters of House wine for 5 euro!! and tastes great. We loved it here so much that we stayed an extra night upstairs in their Bed & Breakfast room. This too was gorgeous with antiques and stunning views. We recommend staying here to anyone and left our hearts there. It honestly feels like a second home. We will definitely go back again. Much love and kisses Lucia and Gian Luca.

Owner response:Thank you thank you thank you, to have spent Easter with us at the bar drinking a cocktail, the Easter procession and the breakfast ... Simple little things that made ??us happy together and hope you still here with your friends and relatives. Thank you for this wonderful review and the next time you wait also the mother Patrizia! Good luck for everything you want With love Gian Luca e Lucia

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Beautifully charming!

Guest: Angie (Coopersville, MI USA)
Date of Stay: 04/04/11 Review Submitted: 04/11/11

This wonderful apartment was an excellent way to get an 'old town Italy' feel. The amenities were top-notch! A beautiful view from an Etruscan wall & plenty of exercise walking up Cortona. Lucia & Patrizia made us feel very welcomed. A traditional Tuscan meal was FABULOUS! A place we will surely return to again next time in Italy!

Owner response:Hello, .......... the meeting at Terontola ..... how can we forget?? Thank you for your nice company, a short time together!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Happy Traveler

Guest: Happy Traveler (Eugene, Oregon USA)
Date of Stay: 03/28/11 Review Submitted: 04/14/11

If you want to experience heartfelt welcome to charming Cortona, rent this apartment! Lucia, Patrizia, and Rudi were gracious hosts during my stay. The apartment is the perfect blend between old and new - very modern but retains the charm of the setting. The view is spectacular and the location was perfect for my need to be in a neighborhood. Lucia and Patrizia provided so many delightful touches, from the groceries in the kitchen to the homemade goodies made by Patrizia. My lack of Italian was met by warmth and understanding. This apartment and these two wonderful humans and a charming dog were truly a highlight of my trip.

Owner response:Hello Nancy, VRBO your reservations in so fast, it went fine! We are very happy that you spent a good vacation with us. I hope I still have you as our guest. Thanks for the photo of the dog in the boat! Greetings Lucia Patricia Rudy

Recommended for:

Expectations Exceeded

Guest: Penelope and Sandy (Waldoboro, Maine, USA )
Date of Stay: 03/08/11 Review Submitted: 03/19/11

We had a perfect experience in The Estruscan Walls #265252 Lucia and her mother Patrizia are wonderful hosts. The apartment is "complete" in every sense of the expression. Warm with an excellent heating system. The kitchen is fully equiped with new appliances: an oven, five burner cook top, refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher. The apartment we found to be comodious and comfortible. Our welcoming dinner was a very pleasant surprise with many of their personal friends. All wonderful people. The food was in a word.....EXCELLENT! We had a computer issue that Lucia was able to have fixed at a friend's computer shop. With great SPEED! I asked for a specific cooking lesson and it surpassed my expectations in quaility and experience. We shopped for the cuttle fish and squid and cleaned it all my request. The luncheon was wonderful! The garden is large the views are unbelievable. We are high up in Cortona. Walking is a wonderful experience here. We slept very well on the king size bed and the adjoining bathroom was very modern and luxurious, and includes a washing machine. There is nothing I can think of that wasn't available for us here. The Dog Rudi is polite and behaved. The museums and churches in Cortona are wonderful, as are the cafes and restaurants. There are many other places of interest to visit in southeast Tuscany and Umbria within an hours drive. We leave tomorrow and are sadden that our stay here is ending..... We will miss everything and hope to return next year.....Penelope and Sandy

Owner response:Hello Penelope & Sandy, your rice was delicious, Gian Luca was very happy when he returned from work !!!!! You were really great and special guests, the apartment was perfect, I eagerly await next year ... and Penelope Lucia at IKEA!! Sandy and Gian Luca will go to taste the Lampredotto!! A hug

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Wonderful Cortona apartment!

Guest: Curtis, Jill, August and Henry (Colfax, California)
Date of Stay: 12/18/10 Review Submitted: 03/14/11

We had a wonderful two weeks in Cortona at "The Etruscan Walls". Our family stayed at Lucia and Patrizia's apartment during the Christmas holiday. My wife and I have two young sons ages 2 and 4. Lucia and Patrizia were very welcoming and generous, even stocking the kitchen with some homemade treats. We feel so lucky to have had the experience of having a traditional Tuscan Christmas dinner with their family and friends. The apartment was well stocked and comfortable including a very modern kitchen and bathroom. We really enjoyed staying in such a historical building with ancient stone walls and next to one of the arched entrances through the Etruscan wall. Cortona was very quaint during Christmas with all the decorations and ice skating in the main square. There are many great shops and restaurants, and even a lovely playground for the kids with amazing views. We will always remember fondly our kind hosts and beautiful home in Cortona. Patrizia and Lucia were so sweet to our boys and they still talk about Italy and their Italian grandma and aunt. Hello and love to you all (including Rudy and Gian Luca of course)! Thank you so much for EVERYTHING!

Owner response:Ciaooooooooooooo!! a big hug to our friends that we have company for Christmas Eve, with 2 wonderful children, very polite, sensitive, talented, thanks for the designs that we have attacked the tree and that from now on will be part of our tree Christmas as usual! We hope to have you still with us .... and this time without getting hurt !!!!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Cortona vacation!

Guest: evelynp (Oklahoma)
Date of Stay: 12/12/10 Review Submitted: 01/09/11

The Apartment was very comfortable and clean. Lucia and her mother Patrizia made us feel very welcome and even had little treats for us. Patrizia even made typical Tuscan dinner for us. The location was very quiet but quite difficult to get to. But then again, thats typical in Cortona and other Medieval towns. Thanks to the Garmin Navigation we were able to get there without any problems. The local restaurants were delicious and inexpensive compared to Florence and Rome. WE would recommend to do groceries at Camucia Coop. Thanks Lucia for the trip out to the Gucci Outlet. We would definitely go back to Cortona and stay at this apartment.

Owner response:Hello very nice to our customers that we have passed a pleasant time together. Thanks also for the dinner you gave us from Muzzicone. How nice to go shopping together!! for Evelyn and me .... and next time, Tony stay at home with Gian Luca !!!!! I Hope to see you soon in Cortona. PERFECT GUEST.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Too Good to be True

Guest: Curt and Celeste (Vancouver,WA USA)
Date of Stay: 10/09/10 Review Submitted: 10/27/10

We are now on week stay #6 of our 11 weekly VRBO stays in Italy and Switzerland and remember the one in Cortona as by far the best. Every amenity listed existed and worked, it was perfectly furnished and decorated. The kitchen had three of everything one could ever need. The king sized mattress very comfortable, clothes storage for all your stuff, the shower had great pressure, plenty of hot water, it was silent at night. Drop dead views a few steps from the front door and most importantly - it was located above and away from the masses of tourists that are bussed into Cortona daily. It is an easy walk down into the village and a strenuous yet scenic hike for the return. You have to work off all that pasta somehow and this will do it. By far the best part about this rental are the owners, Lucia and her mom Patrizia who go out of there way to assure that your stay is all it can be. Any small questions or answers are attended to immediately and if you are very wise, you will have Patrizia or Lucia cook one of their Tuscan or pizza dinners for you. Their hospitality and concern overwhelmed us! We also enjoyed meeting Lucia"s charming friend, Jean Luc who entertained us both the nights we ate with them. This week will be one our best memories of Italy and hopefully we will be able to score another rental with them next year.

Owner response:Curt and Celeste !!!!!!! very nice customers with whom we had the honor of being together twice for dinner, we remember with joy the time spent together and how much they appreciated the kitchen of mother Patricia!! and his last dessert FIGS .......!!! I HOPE TO SEE YOU AGAIN SOON PATRIZIA LUCIA GIAN LUCA RUDY

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Superb Apartment

Guest: Mary and Jerry (Bloomington, IN, USA)
Date of Stay: 10/03/10 Review Submitted: 10/19/10

We are seasoned travelers, and this apartment ranks among the very best anywhere in which we have stayed. We couldn't believe how beautiful it was when we walked in the door--a perfect blend of the old and new. The kitchen and bathroom were updated 2 years ago and are very modern--we did all of our own cooking while there (4 nights) and had absolutely everything we needed. Having a washing machine, oven, and dishwasher was great, too. The apartment was super clean. Lucia and Patrizia were wonderful hosts, and upon arrival we were furnished with all the basic we needed (milk, butter, bread, coffee, tea, fresh herbs from the garden, etc.). One day we decided to just stay around the apartment rather than travel to a nearby city because we enjoyed the place so much. We hope be back again very soon. We highly recommend this apartment--it is everything advertised and much more.

Owner response:Two excellent people and very friendly, too bad we could spend only a short time together, I hope to see you again next year .... maybe with a few to decorate the house!! AscoltaTrascrizione fonetica

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Ten wonderful days in Cortona

Guest: Andre (Australia)
Date of Stay: 09/09/10 Review Submitted: 10/17/10

This was our first visit to Cortona and hopefully not our last. The position of the apartment was wonderful, central to many places in Tuscany and in Umbria. The facilities were very comprehensive and the owners most welcoming and helpful. We will remember fondly Patricia and Lucia's care and help and would recommend Cortona and the apartment as an excellent destination.

Owner response:Hello Dear Anrea e Irene, a joy to know you and your sympathy, I am very happy to have had as my guests and I hope to see you again next year ..... with the bags on time !!!!! Greetings from all of us.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

from Syl in Ontario

Guest: Syl (Burlington, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 09/05/10 Review Submitted: 09/26/10

The owners were so welcoming when we arrived and even had some cheese and ham and fruit and breakfast food for the first day in the fridge for us. The property was immaculate and the amenities were all there...great kitchen and bathroom and closet space and just space , generally. We were given a tour of the inside and outside (stunning panorama of the Tuscan Hills from their backyard). The town of Cortona was a short walk down winding streets but was delightful. Cortona had a lot to offer. You did,however, have to go outdoors to get a view but that was OK with us because we spent our day in Cortona or touring in Montepulciano and Assisi which are not too far away and were wonderful!

Owner response:Sylvia and Pat. Your pleasant company has been a joy for us and I hope to ospitre for a longer period. We are very pleased that you were able to find any comfort in our home. And I hope to be able to sample our cuisine! Good customers for all owners! See you soon

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A beautiful, relaxing place to stay

Guest: Mike & Katie (Philadelphia, PA)
Date of Stay: 08/28/10 Review Submitted: 10/21/10

My wife & I went here on our honeymoon & were absolutely stunned by the location -- the villa is just within the walls near the top of the hill and waking up to a beautiful vista like that was just how I'd envisioned Italy. The amenities were very nice, with an updated kitchen & bathroom in an otherwise ancient house, and Lucia and Patrizia were super helpful, even going so far as to provide us with some delicious homemade snacks in the fridge. All in all a wonderful way to relax after the many stresses of a wedding!

Owner response: Hello newlywedsKatie & Mike, I'm planning my wedding and I'm going crazy I want you here .....!!! Katy to help me make my wedding favors your were wonderful. thanks for your company over dinner with pizza and "ciaccia hoping to have you still with us!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

The most perfect place and perfect family

Guest: traci (San Francisco)
Date of Stay: 08/15/10 Review Submitted: 09/09/10

I will never forget my time here in Cortona. I stayed in Patrizia and Lucia's bed and breakfast the first week I was here and immediately felt like part of the family. They were so willing to help me, invite me to family dinners and really just over-extended themselves on every level. The house is beautiful and very traditional for the area. I felt like I really experienced this place, the people here, the food honestly and completely. This was the experience I was after. The second week I moved down to the apartment and it was equally as amazing. The kitchen is fully stoked with everything you need for cooking. Patrizia drove me down to the market in Camucia (neighboring city) to pick up groceries. She even explained what type of food she used for cooking and her favorite fruits and vegetables in the local area. All apart of the amazing experience I've had being here. The apartment is really comfortable and spacious. Again, it is a traditional home but with a really nice modern kitchen. The garden around the house is a place to relax and enjoy a pamoramic view of the city. It's quite possibly the best view in all of Cortona. In all, this trip; the apartment, the meals, the garden, the family is was more than I ever imagined it to be. And I will always be so grateful for meeting them. I hope to come back soon. Good luck to you and I hope you also enjoy your time here! Traci Griffin San Francisco, Ca

Owner response:TRACI .......HOW TO SAY ....... ONE PERSON has always known .... I was not ever, perhaps because 'WE THE SAME AGE' OR MAYBE THE WAY IN WHICH WE HAVE TIME TOGETHER THE PAST, a special person ... ALWAYS IN OUR HEART, MY MOTHER .... As if it were a daughter and her as if she was his mother. I hope we can STILL HAVE HERE WITH U.S. AND MAYBE I wonder 'Sooner Or Later We'll FIND IT IN SAN FRANCISCO !!!!!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Le Mura Etrusche

Guest: Luc (Montreal, CANADA)
Date of Stay: 08/07/10 Review Submitted: 08/22/10

Le Mura Etrusche Vieille maison de charme située juste à la porte étrusque Montanina, elle-même située tout en haut de la ville étagée sur les flans du Mont Egidio avec vue superbe sur les murs étrusques, le vieux Cortona et la plaine en contrebas gorgée de vignobles et de champs de tournesols avec en prime de magnifiques couchers de soleil. Lucia et Patricia ont rénové avec goût et avec tous les conforts modernes cette veille maison pour en faire un nid douillet, propre et parfaitement équipé. Les jardins étagés juste au-dessus de la maison avec accès direct sur le mur étrusque ajoutent un charme sans pareil au gîte. Il faut quand même mentionner que les gens à mobilité réduite auraient bien de la difficulté à accéder aux jardins ainsi qu’au quartier historique. Sinon les pentes arides et en dédales avec ses nombreux édifices religieux font justement partie du charme de cette ville. Nous ne voudrions pas oublier la gentillesse et le côté serviable de nos hôtes qui ont tout fait pour rendre notre séjour agréable. Nos deux semaines passées à Cortona après avoir déjà sillonné la Toscane à gauche et à droite pendant plus de quatre mois furent merveilleuses. C’est un coup de cœur que nous recommandons sans hésiter. ? Le Mura Etrusche Old charming house located just outside the Montanina, Etruscan door itself located at the top of the city staged the blanks of Mount Egidio with superb views of the Etruscan walls, old Cortona and the valley below covered with vineyards and fields of sunflowers with the added bonus of beautiful sunsets. Lucia and Patricia have tastefully renovated with all modern comforts that old house into a cozy nest, clean and well equipped. The terraced gardens just above the house with direct access to the Etruscan walls add a unique charm to the cottage. We however need to mention that people with disabilities will have great difficulty to access the gardens and to go to the historic district. Otherwise the steep slopes and mazes with many religious buildings are just part of the charm of this city. We could not forget the kindness and helpfulness of our hosts who have done everything to make our stay enjoyable. Having already toured Tuscany left and right for more than four months, our two weeks in Cortona were wonderful. Le Mura Etrusche is a favourite in our heart and we recommend it without hesitation.

Owner response:Luc and Lucie I'm very happy to have you met during your stay in my city. Your kindness and willingness to consider my house like yours, the familiar to invite me to drink a delicious glass of wine with you and your friends have made me immensely pleased. And then .... I say "next time" I'll see in B & B on September 2. I hope that your holiday will continue good and see you next year in the beautiful Tuscany. See you soon! Lucia Patrizia & Rudy

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

My Beautiful Cortona Home and Family

Guest: Carol (Palm Desert, California USA)
Date of Stay: 07/23/10 Review Submitted: 10/06/10

I could not possibly have asked for more than this truly beautiful apartment. I was so pleasantly surprised. The beauty and incredible views far exceeded my expectation. Built within the Old Tuscan Wall and yet the most modern of ammenities. Bathroom and kitchen---lovely. Rooms were spacious and nicely furnished (lots of closets and sporage space). I had 2 of my grand-daughters and a friend with me for a while and we all agreed and had a great time. Lucia and Patrizia made us feel a part of their family. And what great times we had!!! They all went the extra mile. Even so far as to help me with me numerous and heavy bags getting on the train to Roima. The views of the Valley from our front door were picture perfect. Oh, those sunsets!! I could say so much more, however, I will just say that I will reccommend to my friends and family that they stay at this wonderful apartment. Thank you so much Lucia, Patrizia and of course, Rudy. I really miss you and I hope to see you in California!! Hugs and Kisses----Carol

Owner response:Hello Aunt Carol, this is what I can tell you, were you as our kin and has been for us a great pleasure to have known you, I hope to have you for a long time still with us and I hope to come visit in October. a great big hug and a kiss Lucia Gian Luca Patrizia Rudy

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect stay in a beautiful hill town!

Guest: Dan (Baltimore, MD, USA)
Date of Stay: 07/18/10 Review Submitted: 11/21/10

Incredibly welcoming and friendly owners. Lucia was incredibly responsive and helpful. The apartment was newly renovated and very comfortable. The location is stunning - one of the most unique places we have ever stayed in, and certainly our favorite place in Italy - the view from the walls looking out into the Tuscan countryside is a memory we will never forget! Cortona is a wonderful town in the evenings with some great restaurants - just be ready for the long climb back up the hill after a bottle of wine! We would stay here again in a heartbeat if given the chance. Thank you Lucia!

Owner response:Hello Dear Dan & Betzy...(.I do not remember how to spell ... I'm sorry) , I'm so happy that your stay was pleasant, such a golden opportunity. I hope you still with us ... maybe in 3!! there is a sofa bed!!

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

The Etruscan Walls vacation rental is a MUST!

Guest: Cheryl and Jason (Middletown, Rhode Island USA)
Date of Stay: 05/10/10 Review Submitted: 06/04/10

If you are not going to Cortona...change your plans immediately! And add the Etruscan Walls vacation rental as your place to stay. Lucia and Patrizia will spoil you with good food, fantastic views and help with any of your vacation needs. Located at the very top of Cortona and out of the way of the throngs of tourist, the Etruscan Walls is a wonderful apartment to unwind in. Even though the building was started in the year 1200, the apartment is clean and been updated with all the modern amenities you need in a home away from home. And the price is right. I cannot say enough about Cortona, Patrizia, Lucia and the Etuscan Walls! We plan to go back again and again.

Owner response:Cheryl & Jason !!!!!! Hello and thanks for your book reviews and a perfect customer satisfaction for our kitchen that was much appreciated by you. I hope so much to have you as our guests again but next time .... time .... MUCH MUCH SUN !!!!!!!!! A DINNER UNDER THE STARS AT THE GARDEN

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing.

our Hill Town getaway

Guest: Sophia9 (Oakland, California, USA)
Date of Stay: 05/06/10 Review Submitted: 06/02/10

My husband and I recently stayed at Patrizia's and Lucia's apartment rental during our honeymoon in May 2010. Our few days in Cortona were the most memorable. The experience was exactly what we were looking for. The apartment was wonderful. The bathroom and kitchen are remodelled and very modern. Yet the apartment, as a whole, still remains very quaint and charming. The main town square is a beautiful and scenic 10 min walk from the apartment. We didn't get to spend a lot of time in the backyard due to rain, but Lucia maintains a wonderful garden and the views are spectacular.

Owner response:Sophia and Kavin It 's always a pleasure to host such nice people and even if your stay is short you have been very good customers, accurate, respectful and I hope you bring with you the memory of my hotel and maybe, who knows the next time you stay a week! !!!!!!!!!!

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Beautiful Town, Beautiful Property

Guest: HaleyT (Lafayette, CA USA)
Date of Stay: 03/23/10 Review Submitted: 06/04/10

We had a wonderful time in Cortona. The owner of the Etruscan Walls property was wonderful to work with and the apartment was clean and newly remodeled. I would absolutely recommend this to my friends and would love to stay here as soon as I can get back to Cortona.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Guest: Elizabeth and Philip Renfrey (Adelaide, South Australia)
Date of Stay: 11/20/09 Review Submitted: 11/20/09

We arrived with very little notice and had to change our travel arrangements during our stay, yet Lucia and Patrizia could not have been more welcoming nor more accommodating for us. We stayed in the room which they also have available for rent and it was large, open and extremely comfortable. The view over the valley from the bedroom window is divine, and the garden beautiful. The house is very welcoming and if you are lucky enough to have a meal cooked by Patrizia, it is the perfect home style Italian meal - Delicious! Cortona is a beautiful and intruiging city and The Etruscan Wall is the perfect place from which to appreciate it and the surrounding areas. We will definitely return for another visit.

Owner response:Elisabeth and Philip areWere of particular clients, as if we had known each other forever, we spent the beautiful day, and I hope they return with their children

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