Podere Sant'Elena

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.

We stayed here for 10 nights and had the most relaxing time. Such a peaceful location with fabulous views over San Gim town. Barbara and the staff are so friendly and helpful and cheerful. Breakfasts were amazing. A huge choice and all very tasty. Thanks to you all for your hospitality and friendliness. Just perfect

We stayed 8 nights at this incredible, Tuscan retreat and dare to call it our new home away from home, thanks to Barbara and her team. We can't thank her enough for her enthousiasm, hospitality, kindness. The B&B is magical: beautiful location, close to San Gimignano, incredible views and EXTREMELY CLEAN. Excellent, affluent breakfast with homemade and local products. Great local tips regarding restaurants, wine degustations, shops, daytrips... Once again a massive thanks to Barbara and her entire team. We were considered as friends/family and this made our stay unforgettable. GRAZIE MILLE and hope to see you back again!

This is one of the most wonderful bed and breakfasts in Tuscany. A truly personal service, wonderful location, delightful hosts and great food. I would highly recommend. Barbara the host couldn't do enough for us and we extended our stay nearly 2 weeks.

The accommodaiton is in very beautiful environment, the staff were nice and attentive, the room was clear and the cleaning was also careful ever day. The breakfast was tasty and unique. If you want to enjoy your holiday, this is the right place. We are very satisfied with everything.

We really enjoyed our stay here. From the warm welcome from the owner & her dog upon arrival, to the gorgeous farmhouse that houses the bedrooms, to the beautiful pool… and the next morning we dined on the terrace with a real life painting landscape featuring dusky hills, cypress trees & San Gimignano. The breakfast was lovely with gorgeous pastries & various savoury deli items. We chose to do a late afternoon walk to the town, where we had a glass of wine & a wander as the sun set. Then a gelato to eat while we walked back (with our phones as torches). The room itself was really nice and I especially loved that there were screens on the windows so you could enjoy a breeze at night without any mosquitos getting in. It was all very elegant, friendly & the location was great. Highly recommended!

Barbara, Irena & Claudia were great! Barbara's mom was an added bonus. Barbara is well known and respected in the hospitality community. She knows the restaurateurs and didn't steer us wrong. She provided advice on where to visit, where to have dinner; each suggestion was better than the other! The pictures are exact as online and the views from the Terrance are unbelievable. Thank you! We'll be back!

Thanks must go to Barbara, Irene and Claudia. We chose to celebrate our early retirement here. The villa is exceptional. The place is spotless, the breakfasts are wonderful and the pool has the most beautiful views of San Gimignano. We arrived late in the evening and Barbara was so kind and patient helping us to settle in and enjoy our first nights sleep. Every morning breakfast was served to us by either Barbara or Irene with Claudia making our drinks. We were able to ask for advice on where to visit and they were both always so helpful and kind. The breakfasts were absolutely delicious and set us up every day ready to explore the beautiful medieval hilltops towns and villages. We have travelled all over the world and it is very rare to find a place where the people care so much about you whilst you are there. If you want to see and experience some genuine Tuscan living go and stay here! You will be able to relax and unwind whilst enjoying the warmth and culture of genuine Tuscan hospitality. Thank you Barbara, Irene and Claudia. We hope to visit again in the future.

Extraordinary stay, especially the kind and welcoming personality of Barbara, the owner, and that everything is homemade with so much love and dedication. A rather small accommodation that made it very cozy and calm. You need a car to get there and around the area.