Podere Sant'Elena

This is the most wonderful place to stay. The Podera is a delight, it is clean and very well cared for. Barbara and her amazing staff took such good care of us. The breakfast was the best ever, delicious, freshly prepared and plenty to choose from. The sweet treats sublime! I recommend the pistachio creme for an indulgent treat. The view of San Gimignano from the property is just gorgeous. It is well located for trips to local towns and villages. We returned every day to a dip in the lovely pool and an Aperol Spritz. We absolutely loved our stay and hope to return one day.

Just back from a week at this charming, beautiful and peaceful Tuscan farmhouse. Stunning views over San Gimignano and surrounding countryside. Breakfasts were so good with fabulous cakes every morning which were so hard to resist. The rooms were very traditional and lovely and clean. The pool area was quiet and lovely to sit at. The pool was gorgeous. Barbara the host was so friendly and kind and could not do enough for us. Nothing was a problem, from booking restaurant reservations to a fabulous local wine tasting. She even sent us a video of how to check in as we had a late flight when we arrived. The other staff in particular Sylvie were all so helpful and friendly. With lots of lovely hill top towns with gorgeous views near by to visit this is definitely a place to stay for a lovely relaxing holiday. Can’t recommend enough.

Everything about the Podere is wonderful. Beautiful accommodation. Spotlessly clean. Rooms serviced every day. Italian toiletries. Beautiful swimming pool and garden. Stunning views of San Gimignano and the vineyards. Breakfast is amazing, home made and from the family bakery. Staff very helpful and friendly. Can’t wait to go back. A really special place.

Location is ideal for San Gimignano and the view is beautiful especially at night time. We were very disappointed in our room. When we arrived we were given a room at the back of the house which had no window at eye view, only a small one at the top of the wall. The room was very dark and had a bad smell. We complained and were told we did not book a deluxe room. However a room even at a basic level should have a window at eye view. This was rectified with a different room with glass doors which made for a brighter room but it was still very dark. The rooms are very old Tuscan style which may not be to everyone’s taste. The beds were very very uncomfortable and you could feel a plastic mattress protector, the pillows were very thin and need updating. Also the use of plastic cups in the bathroom were not environmentally friendly and the aircon did not work properly. Also for the price we paid we would at least expect bottled water to be free of charge in the room. Also check is strictly after 4pm with no bag drop or use of facilities allowed which is inconvenient. If we come to Tuscany again we would not stay here.