Oftentimes expectations for a magnificent vacation outstrip the actual experience. But, in the case of this property and property owner and staff, just the opposite is true. My husband and I took our children and grandchildren (14 in all) to Florence and Paris for our 50 anniversary, birthdays and retirements. The absolute best part of our trip was a one-week stay in La Querce in Impruneta. This is truly a villa, not just a large house. The layout and spaciousness were perfect for our family--7 very large bedrooms and ensuite baths. The staff prepares and CLEANS UP from breakfast every morning, and then cleans the rooms and bathrooms, etc. Also, there is a chef at the villa who will make your dinners on request if you so choose (We had two terrific meals). The pool is very large, easy to walk to (2 minutes) and not too very deep--so wonderful for kids playing for hours. Also, included in the villa is a vineyard tour and wine tasting with croustades if you would like. It was interesting and the wine is outstanding. The villa and winery, and olive groves are owned by the Marchi family, and Domitilla is the contact for the villa rental. I cannot stress how helpful and wonderful she was both in our pre trip correspondence and upon our arrival.
She gave us information about transportation into Florence (about 25 min.) and where to go and what to see. She is fluent in French and English as well as Italian.. There were no surprises or hidden costs!
La Querce also has a large space for a soccer field with goals,
and foosball and pingpong. We came in from day trips in Chianti and Florence to this wonderful, peaceful, gorgeous retreat each afternoon. After swimming and dinner--soccer games with everyone involved went on for hours.
I'm not sure if we will ever get back there, but if the opportunity presents itself none of us would be able to resist. My children have all told me that they are spoiled for life.
We are now eagerly awaiting the wine we ordered when we left.
Oh, one more thing. Domitilla was kind enough to direct me to another local chef who came to the villa for a day to teach us how to make an authentic Italian meal from scratch. The kids were completely taken with Babs's instruction and loved making the curly little pasta by hand! Then they served us this grand meal out on one of the beautiful lawns of the villa. Really, a slice of heaven.