Verified review
10/10 Excellent
Aileen M.
11 Sept, 2018
A once in a lifetime, very special experience
A once in a lifetime, very special experience
Nine of us, four children and five adults, just returned from an Italian adventure of a lifetime. The highlight of our trip (agreed by all) was a wonderful week at Podere Patrignone with Simon, Verity and the boys.
The beauty of the property and Tuscany can be viewed in photos, but, in reality, exceeds all expectations. Patrignone is the perfect, stress free base to relax, enjoy and explore. The opportunities to visit, dine and experience authentic Italy are easy and numerous. Cycling in the area is sublime - the rolling hills, good roads and low traffic made for unbelievable and challenging road bike riding. Our best day was spent on rented e-bikes (with the kids age 12 and 13) touring San Gimignano and surrounding area. Although the boys (age 11, 12 and all grown up) would say our encounter with the "wild" boars on evening was most memorable.
We stayed in the 7-bedroom villa which was historic, charming, well appointed and extremely comfortable. We loved unwinding, and comparing stories and tips with fellow travellers while enjoying sunsets, swims and Chianti each evening.
What made our visit so extraordinary was the effort, personal touches and hospitality of Simon and Verity. From the pre-arrival information, to the welcome snacks (olive oil, fresh baked bread, cheese and wine), the homemade Tuscan feast, the walking maps of the area, the well stocked hospitality bar, to the assistance with reservations and help with the local bike shop, the family went above and beyond to ensure our stay was easy, perfect and memorable. We are so grateful to have found this idyllic, and joyful place - and hope to return!