Podere Simonetta - A7

My first visit to Podere Simonetta was in the summer of 1974, before the estate had become an agriturismo. Even so, the house and its owner welcomed me warmly and showed me wonderful hospitality.

The apartment had no hot water from the day we arrived, Saturday. I spent all Sunday trying to find someone to help, calling more than 30 numbers from the internet and the apartment information, but got nowhere. Eventually I reached a woman who said she’d send a technician by Monday morning at the latest. He didn’t arrive until Tuesday, after I’d become really angry. He found a dead bird in the pipes. It was probably already rotting, which may explain why they kept putting huge amounts of chlorine in the water. The water was impossible to use. I shouldn’t have to explain how to do the job, but I wouldn’t have left such negative feedback if the team had at least answered the phone and told me what they were doing to fix things. Instead, the women I spoke with were quite arrogant and couldn’t do anything to make our holiday relaxing. The reception was useless. There was no working Wi-Fi, the mobile signal was very bad, and the furniture inside smelled like old people’s furniture. I think most of it came second-hand. We weren’t there in high season and it was already hot indoors, so I imagine August would be a nightmare. If you want to enjoy your stay in Italy, avoid this place.

Dogs are welcome here, which is a big plus for us. The owners are very hospitable, and you can buy excellent olive oil and wine from them. There’s plenty of parking, a table outside each apartment, and lovely barbecue areas. I stayed two years ago and only now realized I hadn’t reviewed this beautiful place in the Tuscan greenery. The pool was wonderful, too. Excellent property, see you soon!

Podere Simonetta is even lovelier in person than the photos suggest. It’s quiet and natural, just what I was looking for as an Ayurvedic massage therapist living in Lucca, hoping to relax and recharge. The place was extremely clean, tidy, comfortable, and restful, with everything needed for either a short or long holiday. Alessandra and Francesco were so helpful and hospitable, and made our stay even nicer. I’m very grateful and will be back soon 💓 I highly recommend it to everyone.