Villa Degli Ulivi

I was worn out after sightseeing and driving a rental car on the A-1, on the fifth night of my first trip to Italy, when I showed up at the Ulivi without a reservation. I know Americans can be a rude lot, and in Italy they prefer reservations so they can have everything ready and present themselves well. Danielli welcomed me with real courtesy and care. While I waited in the charming courtyard, he brought me a cup of tea as they got a room ready. It was quiet there, just below the wall of Orvieto. He showed me where to park behind their locked gate, then went through every detail in the room, including things I found unusual, like how the window worked and how to activate the room key. He also shared maps for walking up to the hill town and told me about good restaurants and live music. I was too tired to go out, though, and slept well after a hot shower. In the morning, the generous buffet breakfast was the best I had in all of Tuscany. Danieli spoke really great English and was the warmest host. Thank you!