Fonte di Pillo

After just a few days, this place felt like home. The owners were warm, welcoming, easy to reach, and so helpful that they quickly became friends. They answered our questions, offered suggestions, came right over when we locked ourselves out, and helped when one of us got sick by calling the local pharmacist to clear up confusion about a prescription due to our limited Italian. Our large family spent a spectacular month at Villa la Fonte, and we'll carry those memories with us for the rest of our lives. The private gated villa has two houses in a bucolic setting with spring water, olive groves, and a well-kept garden. The residences are full of charm and carefully decorated, and the owners tend the many flowers and plants every day. It's halfway between Florence and Siena, with a famous pilgrimage trail and Gambassi Terme within walking or short driving distance. Trains to Florence and Siena are a 10-minute drive away, and towns including Pisa, Vinci, and San Gimignano are easy to reach. The rooms are air conditioned, the pool is lovely, and we made lots of use of the covered outdoor grilling and eating area.