Fattoria Guicciardini

This is the most unique and special place we stayed in during our trip through Tuscany! I mean, when do you get to stay inside a town wall? Naturally the old town center is only a few steps away. There are about 5 parking spots on the property (for an extra fee), but there are also plenty parking places around, due to the many tourists. The parking fee for a spot on the property is slightly lower though. Already entering through the gates gives you a feeling of arriving in a dreamy world of its own. The holiday flat we stayed in was super spacious, consisting of a little entrance room, a very spacious kitchen/ living room area, a huge bed room divided into two parts (with one double bed and a single bed) and a rather big bathroom with a bath tub. Hint to get water for those that are not familiar with the system (as I was, luckily I had a smart friend with me): turn the temperature controller once to the hottest so the flow heater starts. The windows of our room where facing towards the street, but with closed windows it was quiet inside the apartment. Right in front of the window was a bench, where the old Italian men would gather right away in the morning, which gave it a real authentic Tuscan feeling. Keep in mind that you are staying inside a wall, so if you are looking for a light-flooded place, this is not yours. If on the other hand you like a back to the old times, rustic, minimalistic style then this it. The staff was very friendly and helpful and spoke just fine English. We didn't need their assistance after the check-in, so I can't say how easy or hard it is to get a hold of them if needed. I haven't seen them around though after check-in. Breakfast is as far as I understood not offered, but you could either use the kitchen for self catering or go to one of the many cafes nearby. Wifi worked mainly in the kitchen / living room, which didn't bother us though. It gives you a break from technology when getting ready for bed. All in all this place is giving you a feeling of the old times far away from technology (even thought here's a TV available).

San Gimignano is stunning. Unfortunately the same cannot be said of this apartment. Whist it could be superb the room we were allocated which over looked the courtyard was in a poor state of repair and bore no resemblance to the images displayed on booking.com. Staff were conspicuous by their absence and despite telephone numbers being provided challenges were incurred in contacting them. Planning to stay 3 days, unfortunately due to lack of air conditioning and insect bites incurred within the apartment we chose to cut our stay to 2 days. With a little bit of effort this venue and apartments could be far superior. Unfortunately as the apartment was I would offer my recommendation to say here at this time.

Great location! Felt like I was a local in the area. Very quiet part of San Gimignano. Parking is quite close (ask about the elevator from P3/P4 lots as quite the time saver). For unloading luggage, you can drive into the inner courtyard. Highly recommend you use Google maps to see the road to this location as very easy to miss. The entrance way is extremely narrow. You can do it - I did! The parking lot is "T" shaped....recommend you pull in hood first (right turn) then back up to the other side of lot and exit....much easier! Laundry (washing machine) is provided. Do read up on washing machines in Italy as energy efficient and take longer. Recommend property creates YouTube video or provides more instructions. The property manager s extremely helpful and I really liked Hotelo the cat. Overall had a great time and would go back in an instant.