We were fondly surprised by this stay. We travel all over the world using AirBnB and found this to be just what we always hope for. The owners were present/nearby and open and friendly. But first, let me describe the home to those considering staying here and in the process please understand that I'm trying to manage your expectations.
1. If you're looking for something in the heart of the city or other activity, then this is not likely the place for you. This home is up in the hills with wonderful views of neighboring vineyards, accessed via narrow winding roads. It is quiet. No hustle or bustle. No traffic noise. Just the sounds of nature...lots of birds...The complete opposite of our stay the two days before in Bologna. For us it was perfect because it invoked all the images that we had always heard about the Tuscan region.
2. If you're looking for a modern, amenity laden facility, this is not likely the place for you. The home is rustic, rural, and old world farm charm. The beds are a bit tired and the shower is downright anemic (super low water volume). There is no A/C but there are fans and large windows that keep things tolerable. There are chickens, olive groves, fruit trees, and even a retired herding dog (retired because it was more interested in interacting with people than herding animals). The view from the back garden is superb and reminiscent of post cards. The place was awesome for those who really want to get in touch with the local flavor and what most Americans have grown to think of when they hear of the Tuscan region.
3. If you're looking for an impersonal hotel experience where you're just another person being handed a key, then this is not likely a place for you. First off, Filioppo was absolutely charming and accommodating. He spent some years in England so his English is flawless (for those worried about being able to communicate). He is very knowledgeable of what to see, where to go and what to do in Florence. Indeed, he even produced a two-day itinerary for us, which we followed, complete with restaurants and ideal times. We arrived around noon and Filippo took a moment to call a local restaurant and made reservations for us (the restaurant was excellent). On top of that, he took us to the local grocery store and helped us choose some appropriate local fare to stock the kitchen for a couple days. Then we got a chance to visit with his parents (Antonio & Claudia) who live in the same building. They were absolutely awesome. Claudia has a wonderful collection of first print medical books that she shared and Antonio is a wealth of knowledge of Italy both historic and current. He even gave us a personal tour of their wine making practices and gave us a bottle of their wine to share. Note: their wine is unique as it does not use sulfides and therefore does not result in headaches or hangovers. We tested this with two bottles and we weren't disappointed.
My apologies for the rather lengthy review but I believe I've appropriate captured what it is to stay at this home. If you're looking for what I've described here, you won't be disappointed. And please, pass on our best wishes and compliments to Felippo, Claudia, Antonio, and their dog (who doesn't respond to English).
The Smiths
Dallas, TX