We are a family of four (kids ages 3 and 9) traveling from NYC to Italy the first week of July. Our plan is to spend at least 4 nights in the Tuscan countryside. I've been looking at agriturismos and have narrowed it down somewhat.
Wondering if anyone knows of the following agriturismos and can recommend one over another? Any location better than another for my purposes? We will likely be coming via car from the Ligurian coast and then heading to Florence to ditch our car and take the fast train back to Milan when we're done.
Our interests include: a place with very scenic views and countryside close to authentic towns and quaint villages with good food at casual restaurants and forts and castles. Short hikes, waterfalls, hot springs caves, horseback riding, biking, etc... all a plus. Chocolate or cheese factories and kids cooking classes also a plus. We would like to day trip to Florence or Siena or both.
Here are the agriturismos in Tuscany:
http://www.montalto.it/
http://www.bonello.eu/
http://www.terrapille.it/
www.foresteria.it
http://www.villailpozzo.com/
Also this one in Umbria, but it seems like it may be a haul to get back to Milan from but looks lovely and very affordable:
http://www.collesanpaolo.it/
As always, thanks for your help!