Villa Santa Maria

We spent four days here and had a great time. The studio wasn't the most modern, but it was clean and comfortable. The property is right by the entrance to town, so everything is easy to reach while the place stays away from traffic and crowds. The owner was very friendly, and we'll definitely return.

For our three nights, we didn't see anyone besides Daniela, who picked us up at the hotel where we were told to meet, 100 meters away. The apartment itself is nice and small, with plates, cups, pots, and cutlery provided. We brought our own essentials, including an espresso pot, cereal bowls, large mugs, a milk frother, a frying pan, and a few other things. The no-Wi-Fi setup wasn't state-of-the-art, but we booked knowing that. We'd booked parking, then got a WhatsApp saying roadwork meant we couldn't drive right up to the apartment. Daniela spoke only basic English, but explained that I should drive 100 meters the other way down the one-way street while she stopped oncoming cars briefly. Otherwise we'd have to go through the old town's ZTL, where driving without a permit can be expensive. Each time we came back from a tour during our two-day stay, my wife had to arrange this again. Getting hold of Roberto wasn't easy. We did reach him on WhatsApp, but he sometimes answered, sometimes didn't, and sometimes said he'd sent a message when he hadn't. All in all, it was okay and we were satisfied.

The reason I'm giving four stars is the excellent location and the lovely morning view from the window. There's also a garden and parking on site. The shower was very small and cleanliness only average. The owner barely speaks anything but Italian, and I couldn't understand his English at all, though I respect that he tried. There was practically no one around apart from the woman who handed over the keys and then disappeared, maybe because we came in the off-season.

The apartment was fantastic, in a strategic spot in Montalcino, and it only takes a few minutes by car to reach the nearby villages, all of them beautiful. The view across Val d'Orcia was breathtaking, and parking near the house was convenient. The gentleman who welcomed us was incredibly kind and helpful. Beautiful place, congratulations.