My husband and I (no children) are spending a week in the Tuscany/Umbria region of Italy in early/mid-November 2010. We would love to stay in an agriturismo/farmstay (olive, wine production on site) that is authentic, not with a resort/spa feel. We want something that is Italian-rustic (yet comfortable), with a small kitchen and fireplace, if possible. Any recommendations/suggestions that aren't extremely expensive? There are too many to choose from and we are unsure which will truly be an authentic experience. Thank you!
Posted by
gaston, oregon, usa
842 posts
We just got back in June, and one of the Agri's we stayed in (Frallarenza,just out side of Orvieto) meets your criteria. Only two fully containe apts, right in their farm house. They raise grapes, etc, and the one bedroom we stayed in had a fireplace, kitchen, and wonderful bedroom and bath. (and it was less than $75EU/nite!)
The farm cat was outside on our entry each day to greet us. We talked to the son about his music lessons. The father,Francesco speaks excellent English, and has wonderful recomendations on all things local.
Serena will also do authentic cooking clssses, if you desire.
We loved the family, and the farm.
See the reviews on Trip Advisor, too.
Posted by
Alta Loma, CA, USA
1446 posts
Hi Jennifer. We stayed at Agriturismo Marciano in Siena, last September. It was the highlight of our trip. It's a working organic winery & olive grove. They make wines as well as olive oil. It's only 10 minutes from Siena's city walls but it feels like it's out in the country. It's very relaxing & comfortable & spotlessly clean. The owners are very friendly & will assist you each morning in planning your day & they will give you maps & suggestions for things to do. Breakfast is included in the rate & is served around the farmhouse table. It's a nice opportunity to meet the other guests & compare experiences. There are only 6 rooms so it's very quaint. Dinners are offered a few times a week & are optional. The dinners are FANTASTIC! Read the reviews on TripAdvisor; everyone agrees that the dinners are incredible. They consist of several courses & each course is paired with their own wines. The dinners are also served around the farmhouse table and we loved talking to the other guests. My husband & I were so impressed that after the 2nd night, my husband asked me if I was sure that the rate was per night or per person per night. We couldn't get over the value. The owners will give you a tour of the vineyard & winery if you ask. The nights that dinner wasn't offered, the owners suggested a wonderful restaurant in walled Siena (just off the main piazza) & the food was incredible & cheap! Couldn't get over it. We had a rental car & visited different hill towns every day. I can't say enough great things about Agrit. Marciano. If you have any questions, feel free to e-mail me. Have a great trip.
Posted by
Florence
362 posts
Jennifer check out the short video on this page for a "real" agriturismo in Tuscany (Fattoria Corzano e Paterno is a real working farm and winery). The family that runs the place is just wonderful - they make amazing cheese, wine, and olive oil.
Be aware that by then the grapes will probably have been picked, but the olive oil harvest and pressing may be going on. And - it could also be raining! I would say the earlier in November the better. And you can also hit the truffle festival in San Miniato.
Posted by
Fredericksburg, VA, USA
409 posts
You have pretty much described Agriturismo Cretaiole just outside Pienza. No swimming pool or glitz, but you'll experience authentic Tuscan hospitality with the wonderful Morriciani family. Rooms have kitchens and fireplaces - they supply the firewood. We've stayed there twice and loved it. You should be able to pitch in with the olive work with Luciano...a real experience. Just search the Italian Agriturismos section of the Graffiti Wall - you'll see many rave reviews.