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

“Overall: The location was perfect. The short walk into town and the easy access out of town made this a perfect spot in the heart of Tuscany. Enjoyed Most: We loved that we had the best of both worlds. Close enough to town that we could walk with the feeling that we were in the country when you looked out either the front or back of the villa. Enjoyed Least: There was very little to complain about at Casa Gioia. Our only complaint was that the espresso pot was too small and the "American Coffee Maker" was too slow to brew. Also the knives in the kitchen could use some upgrading. Surrounding Area: We loved that we had easy access throughout the Chianti Region. The rolling hills and the landscape are breathtaking. Nearby Events or Locales: The villa is less than a 10 minute walk into Greve. Tips or Restaurants: We have used RentVillas many times now so we are generally used to what to expect when staying at a villa. We travel with our own reuseable shopping bags as well this time we brought a small folding cooler for our trips into the CO-OP. We also travel with Tide-Pods for the washing machine as well as bounce sheets and zip lock bags. Directions: We bring along our own GPS as well as paper maps, but the directions provided got us to the villa with no problems. Check In Out: The check-in and check-out are seamless.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Gioia) - Posted 9 years ago

“Overall: We had a delightful time. The location of the property was excellent, with easy access, yet remote enough to be out of the "hustle and bustle" of a main thoroughfare. Enjoyed Most: The porch with large table and comfortable chairs was a highlight of this property. Providing shade in a peaceful setting, we were able to be outside, yet very comfortable. We ate, read, played games and had conversations on this porch. Had we been required to be indoors, it would have not been nearly as nice. Enjoyed Least: Two things 1) the beds...the mattresses were hard and uncomfortable 2) the grounds were not properly manicured...weeds grew up around the beautiful flowers and took away from the overall experience that could have easily been maintained. Surrounding Area: Wonderful area! Easy access to Certaldo by car. The view of the local vineyards was gorgeous. We were not disturbed (other than by barking dogs) and felt very safe thanks to the nightly monitor by a security firm. Nearby Events or Locales: Sciano was within walking distance...about a 2 km walk. Tips or Restaurants: The villa was ready when we arrived. We took a surge protector allowing us to plug one European transformer adapter into the wall and then the surge protector into that. This allowed us ample space for our many American phones, iPads, etc. A stop to the grocery store in Certaldo allowed us to stock up quickly with essential food. I would also suggest a plug-in insect repellent for the bedrooms. This worked fantastically. Directions: We did use a GPS, but the directions provided by the villa were sufficient.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Geranio) - Posted 10 years ago

“Overall: The experience was wonderful. It was more than we expected--the views, the vineyards, the narrow roads, the people, the pool, and of course, the wine. Enjoyed Most: The fact it was by itself, away from everything in a calm and bucolic setting. I like tranquil settings with nothing to do but relax and drink wine and look at the small valley of olive trees and grape vines. Enjoyed Least: The one and only thing--and I mean only thing--is that it would have been nice to have had more than one queen size bed. That is all I would change. Surrounding Area: Walking the roads looking at the different properties. Looking at the grapevines laden with large clumps of grapes; we were there a few days before harvest. Nearby Events or Locales: San Gennaro was a 10-minute walk through the woods. A clean quiet town with cobblestone streets. The small cafe was adequate for your morning espresso and capuccino or a rustic pannino and beer for lunch. Very nice. Tips or Restaurants: Do your grocery shopping at the Esscalunga on your way to Lucca. Their prices were the best. We found decent vino di casa on sale from 1.78 to 2.45 Euro. Go to Lucca and spend the day within the walls. There is a market of sorts on Wednesday as well. Directions: GPS did not work for us in this instance. The directions from RentVillas were spot on. Check In Out: Marco was very accommodating.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Gennaro) - Posted 11 years ago

“Overall: Very relaxing. If you are interested in just seeing the sites then a week is enough time, but if you want to relax as well, two weeks is a must. We visited the towns of Amalfi, Positano, Sorrento, Vesuvius, Herculaneum, Paestum and the Island of Capri. We where there for two weeks so we had a few days to relax at the beach. Enjoyed Most: The property is very well laid out, with enough room for four people to move around freely. It was great to have a various outdoor spaces to choose from, two terraces with views, the dining terrace and the sun deck on top. Since the two bedroom suites are on different floors it allowed privacy as needed. The first floor suite is nicer than the second floor suite. Enjoyed Least: The kitchen was great, except for the lack of a dishwasher. It would also be nice if there was a vacuum or broom and mop left at the villa. This would come in handy since all the floors are white tile. Surrounding Area: The town of Praiano was very nice and not as touristy as Positano or Amalfi. The small grocery story at the bottom of the hill was perfect and we cooked a great deal of the time and found most everything we needed there. Nearby Events or Locales: To reach the center of town or the beach you had a 15-20 minute walk DOWNhill. Positano is a 20 minute bus ride away with the bus stop less then a three minute walk from the villa. Tips or Restaurants: STEPS, yes there are too many to mention. It is a few hundred meters from the parking UP the road to the front step of the villa which are another three stories before you reach the front door. This was not a problem with us us but I can see it causing troubles for some. Buy your Bus tickets at the tabacchi - it is cheaper then buying them on the bus. Directions: Direction worked fine.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Fiorenza) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: Very rustic and pleasant. Enjoyed Most: Overall setting and Tuscan flavor. Enjoyed Least: Humidity in rooms. Surrounding Area: Access to many major Tuscany attractions. Nearby Events or Locales: Village San Martino, town of Lucca--neither within walking distance. Tips or Restaurants: Osteria Da Divo in Siena (great food and ambience in a cave) and Vernazza in Cinque Terre (beautiful views and an excellent restaurant at the top of the rock). Directions: GPS did not work at Casa Felicita' but did when getting near main road ... the specific directions provided in written form were perfect. Driving the access road will require sounding horn on 180 degree turns and past a farm house.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Felicita) - Posted 8 years ago

“Overall: The property is beautiful! The view is amazing and you wake up every morning to a symphony of birds and frogs. The villa itself is rustic but nice and very comfortable for our family of 8. Enjoyed Most: The outside area was amazing, the pool and hot tub were great. The 4 bedrooms worked well for our family and the 3 bathrooms came in handy. Enjoyed Least: It was isolated. Surrounding Area: The Tuscan hills were beautiful and we traveled to Siena, Greve, Florence and some other small Tuscan towns. The bus to Florence was convenient. Nearby Events or Locales: Falciani and it was not with in walking distance. Tips or Restaurants: There was a restaurant close by in the area that Machiavelli resided in that was great and in a beautiful location. We brought extra toilet paper which was recommended and it did come in handy. The kitchen is well equipped, even a good selection of spices! There were blow dryers in the bathrooms too! Check In Out: Marco was great and it was very convenient. The only thing was having enough Euros available to pay in cash; we had to call Marco for a total the day before so we were prepared.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Falciani) - Posted 11 years ago

“Overall: We enjoyed our stay very much. Enjoyed Most: The location is next door to a beautiful church - the top of which is visible from the garden. There are lovely restaurants nearby and the water taxi stop is handy, too. Enjoyed Least: The kitchen is not very well-equipped. It does have a dishwasher which is a plus, but there were barely enough glasses. Surrounding Area: The area is not in the heavy tourist section, which we prefer. It is in a quiet neighborhood with grocery and bakery nearby so you feel more like a local than a visitor. Nearby Events or Locales: It's Venice, so... Murano is a short water taxi ride away from the stop near the property. Tips or Restaurants: Ostaria Da Rioba and Osteria L'Orto dei Mori were both excellent. The food was delicious, the service was friendly and they spoke English which helped us as non-Italian speakers. Directions: The directions were fine, but they sent someone to meet us at the water taxi stop. We did not use GPS. Check In Out: The process was easy. They let us leave our luggage there as we arrived early, and then we came back after the other guests had left for the orientation and keys.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Errizo) - Posted 11 years ago

“Overall: Very good. Enjoyed Most: The location and the view were excellent, as well as the outside areas. Enjoyed Least: The pool might have been tended to before arrival. Also, in mid September the sun did not reach the pool so the water was cold. The children (vikings) had some fun there, but the pool was in fact of no use. Surrounding Area: Everything. Fantastic landscape to enjoy from the terraces and walks. And we enjoyed the village with a good selection of amenities for such a small village. Everything we needed was within a minute's walk. Bakery, butcher, tiny supermarket, and last but least- Marco's caf? cum delicatessen. Nearby Events or Locales: No town in walking distance, but that was no worry to us as everything was available in Donnini village. Also we had rented cars and got around for sightseeing. Tips or Restaurants: Guests should be informed that the pool is quite cold in mid-September. Local Donnini restaurant serves great pizzas. Directions: We drove from Pisa, using a GPS. Think we would have had some trouble towards the end of the journey without it. Sorry, but not able to give specific recommendations. Apart from stick to autostrada as long as possible. Check In Out: We had a list of three contact persons. The two first priorities never answered. But number three, Marco, the bar owner, turned out to be our man. So very friendly and helpful in every way! So check in and out was perfect.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Donnini) - Posted 10 years ago

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

Helpful Report

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

“Overall: We enjoyed the property and the surrounding area. The location is close enough to Florence and Siena, and yet we felt like we were in the countryside. Enjoyed Most: The peace and quiet. The grounds were very pretty. Enjoyed Least: The view from the property. It would have been great to see a view of the valley from a hillside. Surrounding Area: We enjoyed the small towns and vineyards that were in easy driving distance. Nearby Events or Locales: Pianella. It was not in walking distance. Tips or Restaurants: Actually Franco was extremely helpful and provided good ideas and recommendations. Directions: We did use a GPS that I rented with the car. It was extremely helpful. Check In Out: Franco was at the property when we arrived and agreed to meet us very early on our Check Out day.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Del Mulino) - Posted 10 years ago

“Overall: 105 days at this property. Sad to leave! Enjoyed Most: View and total privacy. Surrounding Area: What's not to enjoy? Nearby Events or Locales: Lerici Check In Out: Great owner. My new best friend.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Del Mare) - Posted 9 years ago

“Overall: Positive, to be renewed. Enjoyed Most: Clean and lots of services, good size property for 5 people. Enjoyed Least: No view. Surrounding Area: Tranquility and peace. Nearby Events or Locales: Javea - not within walking distance Tips or Restaurants: No suggestions; the villa had every facilities required."Chez Angel" in Javea is a great restaurant and the meal at the villa by a cook was also a great experience. Check In Out: Everything was according to plan.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Del Color) - Posted 16 years ago

“Overall: We had a lovely stay in Tuscany. Upon arrival, they had stocked the kitchen for the first morning's breakfast and they showed us how to use the Italian coffee maker. Enjoyed Most: Location was great. Short distance to many of the lovely Tuscan towns. Nearby Events or Locales: Yes , we picked up a pizza one night and walked home and enjoyed it at the house. We did use the laundromat in town and it was clean and machines functioned well. Directions: A map would be helpful to have included in the final instructions. We did have trouble finding the home when we arrived in town. Check In Out: Check in and check out was effortless.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Dei Venti - La Tempesta) - Posted 11 years ago

“Overall: The property was very nice, spacious, and the hosts were great. The property included plenty of privacy and the bicycles were great for exploring. The location was central and made it easy to visit many cities and wine regions. Enjoyed Most: The hosts were very welcoming and even took us to a local festival the first night we arrived. We really got a taste of the local culture. Enjoyed Least: For the most part, the property was great, but due to the low altitude of the property, the view wasn't great. We were, however, able to get to good views with a few minutes walk. Surrounding Area: The wineries in the area and the city of Siena were amazing. Nearby Events or Locales: Monteroni d'Arbia was well within walking distance and we went often to buy groceries. Tips or Restaurants: Visit Siena often! It's so close and beautiful! Directions: We used a GPS and it was pretty easy. Perhaps making a note about the difference between a city and a commune would help. Check In Out: No problems.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Dei Venti - Il Ponente) - Posted 13 years ago

“Overall: Owners were great. Nice people. Very informative. Property was very nice in good locations to go leave from for day trips. Enjoyed Most: Size, style and staff. Enjoyed Least: Although the location was good to go to other areas, we would have liked it to have been set back further from the dusty access road. The parking area did not have lighting.The bed in the master bedroom was uncomfortable, so we slept in single beds in the living room. The property provides mountain bikes, but the bikes all need major work. Surrounding Area: Siena was close and a great town to be close to. Pienza was close by too. Nearby Events or Locales: Monteroni D'arbia was close. Not really walking distance but 2 minutes by car. It's definitely not the prettiest town in Tuscany but very functional. Tips or Restaurants: Great local restaurant in Monteroni d'Arbia. Just one though - Ristorante Pizzeria La Galera on via Roma. Directions: GPS is a must have. It got us to the property and everywhere else. Check In Out: No problems. Very attentive.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Dei Venti - Il Maestrale) - Posted 10 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.”

Helpful Report

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

“Overall: Villa was as described. All rooms and facilities were in very good condition, including furniture, linens, dishes, glasses, appliances, etc. Neighbors were helpful when the electric went out; it was fixed in minutes. Enjoyed Most: The view was stupendous, and eating outdoors was terrific.The A/C worked perfectly, as did the WiFi. All outdoor furniture was excellent and comfortable. The outdoor shower was a nice addition. Enjoyed Least: Location was wonderful, but it required driving into town, which was not for the faint-hearted because the parking situation at the house was difficult; it required a difficult maneuver to turn the car around at the top of the hill. The bed in the downstairs bedroom was uncomfortable. Surrounding Area: All of it was wonderful: Sorrento, Pompeii, Amalfi coast, Ravello, Poaitano, and the beach club in Massa Lubrense! And Capri. Nearby Events or Locales: Massa Lubrense, it was walking distance, but a difficult walk with the cars and motor scooters--no real sidewalk. Tips or Restaurants: Beach towels--But they are easy and inexpensive to buy.The small store had everything in the way of food, milk, juices meat, chicken, bread etc--also any other household necessities. Check In Out: None, they were perfect.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Daisy) - Posted 11 years ago

“Overall: loved Cortona and this location. The apartment was small but charming. Enjoyed Most: The small table and chairs on the courtyard. Enjoyed Least: It was very hot while we were there, with only 1 window in the apartment, it was difficult to get any air circulation. Bathroom didn't ventilate well so got very muggy. Surrounding Area: Great restaurants within walking distance. The courtyard was a lovely place to have cocktails at night. Cortona makes a great home base for day trips. Nearby Events or Locales: The apartment is within the village walls. Tips or Restaurants: a small fan would be good if travelling in summer months. Apartment was stocked with olive oil, vinegar etc.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Cortona 4) - Posted 15 years ago

“Overall: We had a lovely time in the apartment and in Cortona. The property was comfortable, clean, and furnished nicely. The streets are steep in Cortona, so it's a bit of a workout with all the walking around--but worth it. We also visited the Cinque Terre, which was beautiful. Enjoyed Most: The view from the front windows. Surrounding Area: The beautiful landscapes, rooftops, colors. Nearby Events or Locales: A car is needed to visit other towns in the area. The famous "Bramasole" house owned by Frances Mayes is within walking distance through a beautiful park. Tips or Restaurants: Cortona has several good restaurants which was surprising for a small town. Trattoria la Grotta and Ristorante La Loggetta were very good meals. I would advise future travelers to pack light. You don't want to lug heavy suitcases around those streets. Directions: Directions were fine. We had a GPS.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Cortona 1) - Posted 12 years ago

“Overall: We both enjoyed our stay and had a really nice time. Enjoyed Most: The view, the pool, the backyard area for relaxing. Having two bathrooms was a definite bonus even for just two people. Very close to restaurant. Enjoyed Least: The furnishings in the lounge area need refurbishing. It was not a comfortable spot for sitting. No TV. Kitchen is small. No kitchen tongs. Surrounding Area: Village atmosphere delightful. The little cats roaming around. Very friendly. Nearby Events or Locales: Piano Coreglia. Not really. Tips or Restaurants: DVD's. A good book. Kitchen tongs. Directions: Used GPS, but arriving was somewhat. Had to call the owner for final directions. Check In Out: No problem at all. Met Annmarie on arrival--she is just lovely.”

Helpful Report

(Casa Coreglia) - Posted 12 years ago

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