"Best trip EVER!!!!"

July 28, 2011

“Best trip EVER!!!!”

5 of 5 stars Reviewed July 28, 2011

I'm not even sure where to begin! I was a little hesitant to book this since I was going as a solo traveler, and I relied on the TripAdvisor reviews - they are on point. Communication from the property manager ahead of time was great, with all questions being answered. When I arrived at the train station I took a cab, since I didn't rent a car. The trip of the mountain was not for the faint of heart! However, when we arrived at the top, I was stunned at the villa and the view. I was greeted by Barbara (who is just FANTASTIC, can't way enough). She escorted me to my room and showed me around the villa. The rooms are updated, but still have a rustic touch, including windows that open, but no screens. I quickly met some of the other guests and was introduced to the house white wine (we got to know each other very well - the wine and the other guests). There were 9 of us there total, 7 of which were all solo travelers from all over the world. Everything about the week met and exceeded my expectations. The food was obviously a highlight, and it was hard to believe we produced it. The cookbook that you are given is so professionally done, but be sure to get a scale, that was the first thing I bought when I got home. I would recommend renting a car so you can explore the neighboring villages. I thoroughly enjoyed our day excursion especially to the olive oil press and the family home where we had lunch. The cooking classes were very fun and informative and appropriate for all skill levels. There is a beautiful pool, a great wood-fired hot tub, and they even have a masseuse who came up and was available for massages. I cannot recommend this place highly enough - if there were 10 stars I would give it 10 stars! Can't wait to go back.