Podere Lamaccia

The biggest problem was the lack of help when the boiler failed the next morning, leaving us with no hot water. When I reported it, I was asked whether I’d switched it off, though we didn’t even know where the switch was. No one came to check or offered a solution, so we had to take a cold shower in February. We’d arrived around midnight because of an unexpected delay. We’d told the property ahead of time and asked them to confirm that late check-in was okay, but the welcome still wasn’t great. The room cost €80 and was quite small, about 20 square meters, with cobwebs on the radiator. We were hungry after the trip and asked if we could have something simple, even bread or cheese. The property has a restaurant and people were still there, but our request was turned down and we were sent to a restaurant about 9 km away. When we spoke with the owner to see if there was a solution, or at least a small refund, she gave us the impression that she might not have hosted us if she’d known we were coming at 11:30 the night before, even though we’d told her. She had accepted payment, though, and the stay was paid for. Hot water is a basic amenity and should be available regardless of when guests arrive. The disappointing part was also how it was handled. A coffee, breakfast, or sincere apology would have shown some care, but none of that happened. When we returned the keys, the owner was on the phone and didn’t greet us, thank us, or apologize. Our experience at Podere la Maccia in Tuscany was decidedly negative. We’d advise people to think carefully before booking. Welcoming and caring for guests matters, and we felt that was completely missing here. I especially wonder how tourists from far away, including Americans and Australians, would feel in a place surrounded by hills with no train stations nearby.