Podere San Rocchino

Monica’s place was just what we needed for two weeks of rest in the countryside. I’d just finished studying, and my partner wanted a quiet spot to work on the last few weeks of his thesis. He worked in the shade while I read and tried to tan my Irish skin by the pool, and we went for a swim whenever it got too hot. There are no cooking facilities, which we knew beforehand and didn’t mind. We either walked into town for a meal or used the barbecue. The nearby restaurants seemed to have something for every taste: one was a little pricier but lovely, and the others were more relaxed with delicious food. It’s useful to learn a few Italian phrases, since some waiters won’t speak other languages. I practiced ordering from YouTube videos, which helped when we weren’t understood. “Un litro vino rosso della casa” is the key phrase! We didn’t have a car. Monica drove us to and from the train station and kindly offered to collect us after dinner, though we enjoyed walking back. We also ate two meals Monica made, and they were amazing. She’s a wonderful cook and host, and even sent us off with a jar of homemade honey. My partner and I got engaged while we were there, so it’s an unforgettable place for us. We’ll come back for our honeymoon. Thank you, Monica and the whole family, dogs included. I’d absolutely recommend this lovely place and its owners.