We recently spent a week at this wonderful property in Tuscany. First, we need to mention how wonderful a host Patrick Zinelli is. He came all the way from Rome to meet us at the property, but that was not all. He gave us a thorough tour of the property and grounds, invited us for a wonderful appetizer/dinner with local (and delicious) products, and the next day took us personally to his favorite places in Buonconvento (the nearest town), introducing us to the wonderful butchers, fruit vendors, and bakers in town.
The house is beautifully appointed, very clean and, for our first day, had even a great spread for breakfast laid out for us in the common room. Each suite has separate entrances, and the views from the rooms were truly unforgettable. The grounds are extensive; we spent a day exploring it, canoeing in the lake and driving the golf carts up and down the beautiful hills, with Bruno (the property's dog, a sweet and active animal that will greet you every morning and will go everywhere you go, trotting along happily!).
Gregorio and his wife, the groundskeepers, are simply amazing. Every day the would clean after us, lay the breakfast table, bring us fresh eggs from their hens, fix the beds - you name it! We called them the magical elves because all of this happened with us hardly ever seeing them. But, when we did see them, it was a pleasure; they are the nicest people ever, and it also was a pleasure to meet their beautiful daughter Anna. Gregorio even helped set up the BBQ one evening we were planning on cooking bistecca (the amazing meat from the region), brought us fresh zucchini and green beans from his garden, and the next morning it was all magically cleaned and ready to use again if we wanted!
The house is conveniently located, with many area attractions between 30 minutes and one hour away. You will need a car to stay here, but it will be very hard to extricate yourself from this place. I would have enjoyed staying more in the house, walking the grounds with Bruno and simply enjoying how time seems to slow down there...
We truly recommend this place and will be back very soon. Thanks again Patrick for everything; we will see you again!