A group of active, older, budget minded (not cheap) people want to rent a villa in Italy next year. Thinking about some place relaxing but near a village where we can shop for food to prepare some of our own meals, a place where we can take liesurely walks, sample the local life and cuisine. We would like to rent a van or find a local driver/guide for day trips and perhaps a local housekeeper/cook. Would like to go off season for best prices when weather is cooler but still good. Would like some place charming,clean,comfortable but not fancy or over the top who could accomadate 6-10 guest and would welcome us for 8-14 days twice a year, some place near a train station for optional tours. We are retirees and pre-retirees who want to do it now and keep cost down. Would like ideas on where to start other than travel agents. Would like to hear from folks who have had villa experience. Do they charge per person or for the villa? Does this idea seem feasible? Would like suggestions.Please share if you or someone you know has had this type of experience. Thanks
Posted by
Collierville, Tennessee, USA
500 posts
We have rented houses in and near Cortona since 2001. We used Classic Tuscan Homes and have rented La Certosa three times (my favorite) and an apartment that is too small for your needs. We rented Casa Melody (my husband's favorite)through them but that property is now represented by Terretrusche. We have never done it but I think Classic Tuscan Homes will provide a cook for a fee. I LOVE Cortona. It is near the train station in Camucia, has several good restaurants, and several good markets where you can buy food to prepare at the house. There are other rental agencies that are a little cheaper but we have had really good experiences renting from Classic Tuscan Homes. Every place we have rented was per the house, not per person, although sometimes it costs more if more people stay. In our experience they usually charge a cleaning fee per person, and you may have to pay extra for heat. When you first look at the price it looks expensive, but when you spread it out between 8 people it is quite reasonable.
Disclaimer: I have no connection to Classic Tuscan Homes other than the fact that I have rented from them on several occasions.
Posted by
Collierville, Tennessee, USA
500 posts
and just a suggestion, you might get more responses if you post this on the Italy board.
Posted by
Northridge, CA, USA
124 posts
We rented a villa in Florence, in November for 23 people, however, you can do less. Near a train/bus station ...thru the Parker co. or go to SoledelChianti.com and ask for Francescia. A absolutely beautiful villa located in Tavarnelle , 30 minutes outside Florence or Villa le Pizzole has apt. units 1 mile outside of Florence...no restaurant on site but other than that absolutely beautiful and owners very friendly...