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

“Overall: The villa was everything we could have hoped - there was plenty of room, it was amply appointed, and the views could not have been more spectacular. Enjoyed Most: Casa Marlia is located just far enough away from the larger cities of Tuscany to give you a real sense of being able to "get away from it all" - but close enough to access many of the big draws of the region. The best thing about Casa Marlia is the spectacular views - the beautiful grounds immediately surrounding the property, to the town of Lucca below, and the amazing Tuscan hillsides. Enjoyed Least: There was an odor in the kitchen area - strong enough to be noticeable but not strong enough to ruin the overall experience. Editor's Note: The housekeeper did an end-of-season check on the reported odor in the kitchen. No odor was detected, and no further mention of it was made by subsequent autumn visitors to the property. November, 2015. Surrounding Area: Casa Marlia is so accessible to so many things - the town of Lucca (which was truly amazing), Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, and all of Tuscany. Our best day was spent driving higher into the hills and seeing the tiny villages where everyday life happens - such an authentic taste of Tuscany! We literally bumped into a small vineyard, stopped and asked if we could look around. The owners very graciously asked us into their tasting room (completely without any reservation) and provided a taste of their wonderful wines. In their restaurant next door, there was a large group who was there for a cooking class. Next trip I will be signing up for that class! Nearby Events or Locales: Ciciana - if you are very brave you could walk here, but not advisable on the very small and winding roads. There was one trattoria there - which serves a mean Pizza Margherita! Tips or Restaurants: If it's possible in your timing or your budget, take advantage of having a chef come to the villa. I think this was the best evening we spent - and we learned so much. We'll be recreating our meal in a few weeks here at home. Lina and Giada were very knowledgeable, and so wonderful. The pictures of Lina and my husband dancing to the music of Andrea Bocelli bring back priceless memories. Directions: The written directions were pretty difficult to follow - some of the distances were off. We did use a GPS, but the coordinates we were given were not correct, either. In the end we found it and were happy to be there. Check In Out: Guido and Gabriella were both fantastic. Very knowledgeable the property and the area. They were prompt and courteous - very easy process.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Marlia) - Posted 9 years ago

“Overall: Fantastic, right in the heart of the Amalfi Coast without being in the middle of the tourist crowded areas of Positano and Amalfi. Enjoyed Most: Each bedroom has a bathroom en-suite. Right across the road from the beach. Rooftop private terrace area. Parking a block away underground. At least 6 restaurants within a few blocks. Supermarket next door. Local bus transit in front of Villa. Local ferry a few block away. Didn't need our car. Enjoyed Least: Very small kitchen only suitable for preparing breakfast and lunch. Surrounding Area: Visited Amalfi and Positano by boat and bus. Toured the coast by boat. Nearby Events or Locales: Villa is in the heart of Maiori, a small town with the best beach on the Amalfi--everything is in walking distance. Tips or Restaurants: The Torre Normande Restaurant although very expensive is a must visit. All restaurants were very good. Directions: Used a GPS Check In Out: Very accommodating, very smooth.”

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(Casa Maiori) - Posted 9 years ago

“Overall: Could not be better. Enjoyed Most: The proximity to the village. It was only a ten minute walk to the central square. Enjoyed Least: The approach to the property was a very steep climb. Surrounding Area: There were several wineries and villages within easy distance. Nearby Events or Locales: Greve; yes. Directions: We used a GPS and we could not have gotten along without it. Check In Out: The owner of the property was very accommodating.”

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(Casa Lilla) - Posted 10 years ago

“Overall: Very good. Enjoyed Most: It was in excellent condition and in a very quiet location. Enjoyed Least: There are no opportunities to walk in the countryside. Surrounding Area: It is close to the historical town of Lucca, and within reasonable driving distance of Pisa and Florence. Nearby Events or Locales: The nearest small town is 1 kilometre away but the road is busy and there is no sidewalk. Tips or Restaurants: We traveled from the villa each day and ate out wherever we were located at the time. Directions: Use a GPS; we tried finding the villa according to the instructions given to us and got hopelessly lost. Check In Out: It would have been helpful if the key holder had a knowledge of English. We got by OK but had no idea what he was trying to communicate to us when we arrived.”

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(Casa Leonardo) - Posted 11 years ago

“Overall: We had a wonderful and relaxing stay. Enjoyed Most: The apartment is beautiful and has all the modern conveniences that American customers would want, such as good air conditioning and very comfortable beds. It is located on a large property shared by a small hotel/restaurant called Tout Va. The property is spacious and has fantastic views. Surrounding Area: Great parking, beautiful swimming pools, and an excellent restaurant next door. Nearby Events or Locales: Taormina is just up the hill. A car is recommended because the street does not have a sidewalk and it is rather steep. Tips or Restaurants: There are lots of good restaurants in Taormina. The staff at the Tout Va restaurant and hotel next door were wonderful and very helpful. We had breakfast there almost every day. Directions: We always use GPS and the apartment is not difficult to locate. It is a main road up to Taormina. Check In Out: Very helpful property manager who is available via text and phone.”

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(Casa Isola 1) - Posted 9 years ago

“Overall: Wonderful. Enjoyed Most: The walk to the pool and the scent of jasmine coming into all bedrooms. The style of furnishing....baby proof and elegant.German World Cup TV available.Really nice people at reception. Enjoyed Least: The road up to it is a bit bumpy! Not a serious problem unless you have a Ferrari or a low slung undercarriage.Vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce for dessert at a dinner we booked to celebrate a birthday there on the last night--not "the local cuisine" experience expected and not worth the money overall. The pre-booked cake was entirely forgotten and was sent out for as we waited. Surrounding Area: Lovely villas all around. The Italian Post Office experience is not to be missed! Tips or Restaurants: A sense of humour.”

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(Casa Francesco) - Posted 11 years ago

“Overall: We had a wonderful stay at Villa Casa Felice. Everything we needed was there and the view was spectacular--as well as the villa itself. The furnishings added character to this villa and the showers and bathrooms were wonderful. Enjoyed Most: The large kitchen where all nine of us in the villa could cook and enjoy our meals and all be together at the same table. Surrounding Area: So beautiful and quiet and a wonderful place to relax with local restaurants which were wonderful to enjoy. Tips or Restaurants: Hair dryers and plugs that work for the villa and your own curling irons etc. They will provide but just easier if you have one in hand. Directions: We were taken to the villa by the owner. We did use a GPS after that. Check In Out: All went very smoothly.”

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(Casa Felice) - Posted 10 years ago

“Overall: We had a wonderful time at the Casa Fascinante. We were four couples and there was plenty of room for all of us. The owners were gracious and hospitable. Maria went out of her way to make my birthday dinner memorable, even whipping up a chocolate cake on very short notice. Federica spoke English and was always helpful. Enjoyed Most: The garden and pool area were beautiful and well-maintained. The views were gorgeous, and even though the house was surrounded by other houses, the landscaping provided privacy. Enjoyed Least: The property is advertised as having bug screens, however only half of the windows had them. The front door was also very hard to open with the key provided. Overall we thought these were minor problems. Surrounding Area: The villa was well situated for day trips. We were situated between Pisa, Florence and Siena and could reach them easily. We also took the train from Castelfiorentino into Florence several times. Nearby Events or Locales: Castelfiorentino was about 3 km. away. The train station is next to the tourist information office and you can buy tickets for the train there if they are open. Otherwise the Bar across the street sells them and there are automated ticket machines on the platforms also. There is a parking lot by the train station where we would leave our car for day trips. Tips or Restaurants: The CoOP was a supermarket chain that was in almost every town. It was handy for stocking up on toilet paper, etc. In general the kitchen was well stocked with cutting boards and even some spices. We were able to prepare meals easily.The bathroom towels were new and were very thin probably for fast drying in the high humidity. Some persons might prefer to bring their own towel, as the bathroom towels were the thickness of kitchen dish towels.”

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(Casa Fascinante) - Posted 17 years ago

“Overall: Terrific! Everything worked, the villa was comfortable and very clean, and it was wonderful to be out in the countryside and simultaneously next to a substantially charming tiny village. Enjoyed Most: (1) The care, guidance and knowledge provided by the housekeeper, who also cooked us a first-class meal one night (2) being able to walk to and from the extraordinarily delightful Osteria Volpaia for dinner. Enjoyed Least: Well, it's a trivial thing, but the pool house blocked the view from the living room and outdoor dining table. The pool area itself was fine. Surrounding Area: Radda is convenient, with a nice range of stores. It and a number of other nearby older towns are scenic, pleasant and historic. Everyone we met was friendly. Nearby Events or Locales: As mentioned, Volpaia is very close. Groceries and other supplies are a short drive away, in Radda. Tips or Restaurants: In Panzano, near the top of the hill at the end of town, Cantinetta Sassolini is a relatively new restaurant with marvelous fresh versions of regional cuisine. Casual and welcoming. Directions: Directions were perfect.”

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(Casa Elsa) - Posted 9 years ago

“Overall: My wife and I stayed here for 10 days for our honeymoon. In short, we couldn't ask for anything better. The views were the best part of this villa since it is located right on the hill overlooking the beautiful small town of Minori and the coasts. Also, we loved the proximity to the piazza and the bus station of Ravello (it was less than 5 minutes on foot from the villa). Ravello itself was a great place to visit, but on top of that we found it very easy to go down to Amalfi by bus and even to Positano by ferry from the port of Amalfi. One more thing i have to note would be the owner's hospitality and her responsive staff. Bottom line, it was one of the best decisions I've ever made to stay in this villa for our honeymoon. Enjoyed Most: Views, decor, and location (very close to the piazza and the bus station). Enjoyed Least: Internet connection sometimes was weak (but we were there to unplug ourselves, so it was OK). Surrounding Area: Words cannot describe how beautiful Ravello is. Full of great restaurants and local stores. Nearby Events or Locales: Ravello. Less than 5 minutes on foot from the villa. You could even walk down to Minori in 30-40 minutes via beautiful paths looking down the coasts. Tips or Restaurants: It would be very hard for those who visit Ravello to find a bad restaurant. Directions: Car service is the way to go. I wouldn't recommend to drive in Amalfi coast. Check In Out: It was all smooth and clear.”

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(Casa Deva) - Posted 8 years ago

“Overall: We had a wonderful stay. The villa was just what we were looking for. The property manager was very good and gave us great information about what to see and where to eat. Enjoyed Most: The view. The pool. Just being able to relax and enjoy ourselves. There were a lot of daytime excursions, two of which were Siena and Firenze, so the location is wonderful. The town Tavarnelle Val di Pesa has a large supermarket and we were able to get Internet at the library. Enjoyed Least: There was no internet access. The living room was really not functional for 4 people to gather in. We spent our time mostly in the kitchen or outside. There was no radio either, so with no internet and no radio, we had no music. That would have been great to have. Surrounding Area: It was the scenery. Grapes were being harvested and everyone was busy, yet we were still able to go for wine tastings all around the area. Nearby Events or Locales: The nearest small town was Noce. This is a very small town with really no stores, but Tavarnelle was only 12 mile away, so we were able to go to great restaurants, get good food supplies, and shop. Tips or Restaurants: We went to some excellent restaurants. The villa is not luxurious, but it was exactly what we were looking for and it was affordable. Everything was there, so we didn't need to buy anything. Directions: We did have a GPS, which was very helpful. The directions given were also very good. It is quite easy when you are coming from Rome. We were coming from Rimini, so we had to cross mountains on a very winding road. We did not have a cell phone to call the property manager, so had to go into town to find a phone. She met us at the store and drove with us back to the property.”

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(Casa Della Fioraia - Foglie) - Posted 12 years ago

“Overall: This was a wonderful place to stay with family and friends. Close to everything we wanted to do, yet far enough away to enjoy the spectacular view and the quiet. Enjoyed Most: The view was breathtaking. Enjoyed Least: We pretty much enjoyed all of it! Surrounding Area: Really enjoyed the little towns. The owner of the property gave us directions to all the local eating places! Nearby Events or Locales: Can't remember the name, but it was not in walking distance. Tips or Restaurants: Just ask the owners. They were more than happy to answer all of our questions. Directions: We used a GPS so had no problem locating the property. The owners were waiting for us when we arrived.”

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(Casa Della Fioraia - Bocciolo) - Posted 9 years ago

“Overall: Amazing!! From the moment we arrived it felt like heaven on earth. The villa is beautiful. We had plenty of room and the facilities were immaculate. The pool was the perfect respite from the Tuscan sun. The weather was amazing. Absolutely perfect!!! Enjoyed Most: The property manager Cecille was super friendly and a font of information. The peace and quiet the villa afforded us was unparalleled. Yet we were minutes drive away from Barberino Val D'Elsa. Location, location, location.... Halfway between Florence and Siena in the heart of the Chianti region. I am still pinching myself to make sure it was not just a dream. Enjoyed Least: The dirt road added an element of anxiety. Especially when navigating it in a rental car. Surrounding Area: Everything!!! The views, the people, the options to tour a town or two or go to a wine tasting or just sit overlooking the vistas at an outdoor cafe. Nearby Events or Locales: Barberino Val D'Elsa. Not exactly walking distance unless you enjoy long walks. Tips or Restaurants: The information RentVillas sent us prior to our trip contained an extensive list of things to bring. She knows her stuff. Don't panic there is a little super market in town for essentials. Directions: You have to enter the local name of the villa to find it using GPS.”

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(Casa Del Grano And Fieno) - Posted 14 years ago

“Overall: It was simply perfect. The owners were very accommodating. Sonia even brought us eggs from her Mother-in-law's hens. Out every window was a glorious vista. Bob and I are artists and enjoyed plein air painting at the villa and surrounding villages. Driving our stick shift Fiat was a daily adventure on the hilly winding roads. We were fortunate to be there when the vineyard started harvesting the grapes. Sonia invited us to the winery to see the process. We took side trips to Venice, Cinque Terre, Pisa, Florence, San Gimignano, Montepulciano, Siena, Greve and lots of small villages. Barberino was having a festival when we arrived and Greve the following week. The people were warm and welcoming. The food, wine and beauty of the country-absolutely glorious. The pool was an added benefit. We felt lucky to have chosen Casa del Grano from all the available villas you supplied. Thanks, RentVillas, for your expertise and help in making this vacation a reality. Enjoyed Most: The views from the windows. The grapes were ready for harvesting. There were castles and other buildings , groves of olive trees and we were on top of the hill and could see the town of Barberino from our site. The villa had a huge upstairs with tables and chairs, family room and sitting room with lots of windows (along with 2 bedrooms and a bath) that provided us great space to paint on the few rainy days we had. Enjoyed Least: The thing we liked most and least about the property was the last 3 miles of the road to the property. It was one lane, gravel and rock and rutted. Tough on car and car was always filthy. The good thing about the road was there was very little traffic except the family occasionally which provided great peace and quiet. Surrounding Area: We were centrally located between Siena and Florence which made accessibility to many villages easy. Tuscany is a feast for the eyes. We toured Casa Sola, another beautiful winery, took a cooking class in Impruneta, everything seemed within easy reach. Nearby Events or Locales: Barberino Val d'Elsa. As the crow flies it would have been walkable, but the rocky road from the villa to the paved road and the winding "z" and "s" curves on the paved road would have been a major challenge. Tips or Restaurants: Pack light. The villa has a washer and a rack to dry clothes. No dryer. There was no drain stopper for sink. No A/C but had fan and open windows. There are several restaurants--two with awesome views and friendly wait staff. The grocery is limited but with nice deli for prosciutto, etc. Villages to the north and south have "super stores" and are 5-7 miles from Barberino. We asked everywhere we went where the locals ate and loved their choices. Directions: We were given wrong directions from the Car Rental Agency in Florence to Barberino and got very turned around. We had GPS on our iPhones and a Garmin. We couldn't get a consistent signal on phone. Eventually Garmin worked. It took 3 times as long as it should have. We telephoned Sonia and she got us to Barberino and met us to follow her to the villa. The next day she brought us local maps. Yay! We had WiFi at the villa and were able to get directions. Check In Out: Check in and out were very easy. Sonia spoke enough English we could communicate. She provided maps and information on the area. The wines they produce are very good-as was the olive oil.”

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(Casa Del Grano) - Posted 9 years ago

“Overall: Excellent. Beautiful house and property. Enjoyed Most: Comfortable, beautiful setting. Enjoyed Least: Spotty internet connection--had to go outside to get reception. Surrounding Area: Wine country. Nearby Events or Locales: Barberino. No, the town was about 5 miles from villa. Check In Out: Sophia was very accommodating.”

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(Casa Del Fieno) - Posted 9 years ago

“Overall: Highly recommended. We had an amazing time. Enjoyed Most: Great location central in Tuscany. The owners were extremely helpful, nice and made great recommendations for day trips. Surrounding Area: Beautiful Tuscan hillside and centrally located. Only 10-minute drive to Siena. Nearby Events or Locales: Monte D'Arbia was within walking distance. Tips or Restaurants: Rent a car if you want to explore Tuscany.”

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(Casa Dei Venti - La Calma) - Posted 20 years ago

“Overall: Wonderful. Enjoyed Most: Very peaceful. The manager was a lifesaver. Everything was perfect. Enjoyed Least: Not enough pots and pans. We like to make our own evening meals. Surrounding Area: Your beautiful, typical Tuscan views. Nearby Events or Locales: Mercatale. Not within walking distance.”

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(Casa Dei Frati With Cottage) - Posted 11 years ago

“Overall: What a lovely villa! The location was perfect to get away from the crowds of Florence. Such a beautiful setting amongst the olive trees and vineyards nearby. Enjoyed Most: We loved hearing about the history of the property. For small children the pool was wonderful! Enjoyed Least: July heat means mosquito season. The property manager was very helpful trying to help mitigate them. However you have to decide between keeping the windows open to enjoy the fresh air, or run the A/C which is so expensive in Italy. Surrounding Area: We loved visiting some of the nearby vineyards and wineries. The Antinori vineyard is very close and worth a visit. The town of Mercatale is a lovely nice Coop market that is clean and has everything you might need. The baker in Mercatale is so patient when dealing with a non-Italian speaking tourist and has a nice selection of bread, pasteries and cheese. Nearby Events or Locales: Mercatale, five minutes by car. Tips or Restaurants: Bug spray and mosquito repellant in July. The property manager, Babeth will have great restaurant suggestions. Directions: This is not an easy property to locate without GPS. Once you are off the main road there are a couple of turns...with GPS its easy and our rental car had no issues. Check In Out: Professional and prompt.”

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(Casa Dei Frati) - Posted 9 years ago

“Overall: It's perfect for adults ... OK for children too. Enjoyed Most: It has magical views. It is right in the center of Liguria province, next to Portofino, and Cinque Terre. Enjoyed Least: The property sits atop of a steep hill. Although there is a private shuttle taking residents to the city, it is not flexible enough ... so we had to walk up the hill a few times. Surrounding Area: Liguria is Italy at its best ... nature, culture and history have come together to create an authentic Italian experience. Tips or Restaurants: Bring your own entertainment electronics and content.”

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(Casa Costiera) - Posted 19 years ago

“Overall: Wonderful. We found the kitchen to be much better equipped than we'd anticipated; it actually has a stove and utensils, etc and I cooked for neighbours. It was lovely to stand by the villa gates in the evening with a glas of wine and enjoy the wonderful view overlooking Tuscany and the lake. Enjoyed Most: We liked the location inside the walls of Cortona and close proximity to local bus and train. Surrounding Area: The history, views, and friendliness of the majority of the locals. Nearby Events or Locales: Cortona is about two hundred metres away and has wonderful produce, restaurants, and coffee. Tips or Restaurants: Good walking shoes; be prepared to do a lot of walking up and down hills. Directions: We caught the local train from Rome, changed at Chiusi then disembarked at Camucia and caught the local bus from the station up to Cortona. The villa is a short walk (two hundred meters) from where the bus terminates and we phoned the owner, who knew we were coming and was very helpful.”

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(Casa Cortona 3) - Posted 13 years ago

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