Reviews
Some of the things our guests at our villa in Val d'Orcia in Tuscany have said.
Grazie Mille for a Magical Stay
"It was truly magical! Our group of seven women had the most relaxing and joyful time at your Tuscan Villa as we celebrated a special birthday together. From the peaceful surroundings to the thoughtful touches throughout the house every moment was memorable. Thank you for sharing your slice of paradise with us. We will carry these memories for a long time. Warmest regards Lisa Laura Stacy Sandy Stacy and Laura Ps If we could pack Samuela up with us we would take her home with us."
LK USA July2025
My fourth stay in Tuscany
" My fourth visit to Podere Terra Bianca was as blissful as my previous three. The location is perfect; the gardens are, if possible, even more beautiful; the pool as enticing as ever; and everything is maintained to the highest standards. Samuela continues to look after guests with kindness, helpfulness, and great good humour. Thelma and Louise were a hit all around, even with the assembled devoted dog lovers. Many thanks again for sharing your perfect Tuscan home. "
LI Toronto June 2025
Our stay in Tuscany
"Our stay at Villa Luisa was sublime.The setting is serene; indeed, it is one of the most beautiful locations in all of Tuscany. And yet it is proximate to both Pienza and Montepulciano, with numerous wineries and so many sights of interest available for daytime outings. The house is both lovely and comfortable, with every amenity at our fingertips. We delighted in a bottle of their own olive oil as well as use of the beautiful kitchen, patio and grill during our stay. They provided a wonderful guide to the local areas of interest, which we used extensively during our stay. John was wonderful to work with and made the logistics of rental easy and turnkey. Further, he was so kind to check in to make sure that we were comfortable after we arrived and always available if questions arose. We adored house manager Samuela, who patiently answered our questions about the history of the property and the area and who was always concerned about our comfort in the house. In addition, our morning coffee was often accompanied by delicious cornetto or bread that she brought with her from town. Everything about our stay was exquisite. We could not have asked for a more beautiful location, lovelier home or more terrific hosts for our stay!! "
BWL Nov 24 USA
A slice of Tuscany
"If you're searching for a slice of Tuscan paradise, look no further than this stunning villa. Nestled in a picturesque forest and surrounded by two enchanting olive groves, this property offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and refined luxury. The villa itself is a masterpiece, with spacious, elegantly appointed rooms that make the most of the breathtaking views. Each morning, you’ll wake to panoramic vistas of rolling hills and vineyards that seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or relaxing on the terrace, the scenery is simply mesmerizing. Location is key, and this villa excels on all fronts. It’s perfectly positioned to explore the region’s celebrated wineries, exquisite restaurants, and charming towns. Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine wines or just looking to savor some authentic Tuscan cuisine, you’ll find everything within easy reach. The local towns are brimming with character and offer a wonderful glimpse into the region’s rich culture and history. A highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the exceptional service provided by the owner, John and the house manager, Samuela. The booklet of local information is far better than most rental homes - the recommendations were incredibly helpful. Samuela's warmth and attentiveness truly elevated our experience. In summary, this Tuscan villa is a dream destination that combines stunning natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and outstanding service. It’s the perfect retreat for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and charm of Tuscany. I can’t recommend it highly enough—prepare to be enchanted!"
JC June 24 USA
Tuscany in July
"The Villa is simply delightful, with beautiful sweeping views of the Val d'Orcia and wonderful, well-tended grounds of grassy lawns, herbs, lavender, etc. The large pool is well-positioned for sunshine and views, with lovely umbrellas for shade. There is a large, well-functioning, fully fitted-out kitchen, updated bathrooms and a good internet/tech/media set-up (Sonos speakers; big TV; good internet). The bedrooms are lovely and clean. The air-conditioning an added bonus. The Villa is secluded, sitting among olive trees, forest and hay fields and well-situated for visiting the hill towns. It is a lovely drive from the main road, with sightings of deer quite frequent. The host is incredibly helpful and conscientious, both about the villa itself and also with recommendations and information about local restaurants, vineyards, activities etc. There is also a housekeeper who is friendly and helpful. We enjoyed a super lovely week at this most special, gracious villa and wish we could ve spent more time there, simply enjoying the view. Thank you for such a special week."
M GC London July 2024
A week in Tuscany
"Podere Terra Bianca is even more beautiful than the photos. The home and gardens are immaculately maintained and the views are stunning. The home comfortably fit our family of seven providing privacy to each couple while also having many areas to gather for meals, drinks, and activities. We enjoyed a wonderful in villa chef-prepared meal by John Carlo of Tuscan Chefs. Samuela, the house manager, coordinated the event with the chef and even set up badminton for us to enjoy while awaiting our meal. The secluded location combined with the proximity to the most picturesque towns in Tuscany make this a unique find. If you have stumbled across this gem of a villa in your search for accommodations, look no further. You have found perfection. We will be back and will recommend this place to others."
Lynn Donnan Ohio USA May 2024
Under the Tuscan Sun ...
"We truly loved our stay at Podere Terra Bianca. The home and surrounding property are simply outstanding - while being immaculately appointed with many comfortable areas to gather and dine. The home offers stunning views of Val d'Orcia from all windows and sitting areas. It provides a perfect location for daily touring of the area's villages and towns - Cortona, Montepulciano, Siena, Pienza to name just a few. John's detailed notes on the home and surrounding area proved very helpful in our navigation plus setting up reservations and an in house chef upon our arrival. Samuela and Enea were both helpful during our stay. It was difficult to leave this beautiful paradise. We are already discussing a return visit for a longer stay. Many thanks for opening your home to us. "
Marcia McKinney Atlanta, Georgia May 2024
Thank you for sharing your wonderful Tuscan home
"Thank you for sharing your wonderful Tuscan home with us. What a special and magical place you have created in the gorgeous Val d’Orcia. You have considered every detail in your design making what is otherwise a rental property truly feel like a home away from home. We will certainly recommend your property to our friends at home and look forward to returning next year. Samuela is a true delight, making our stay extra special, even decorating the house with fresh flowers throughout the week. We are already planning our next visit. Grazie mille. "
Holly Petroff New Jersey USA Oct 2023
What a wonderful and magical place.
"We enjoyed every minute of our stay at Villa Luisa. Total Paradise. The gardens, pool and views were spectacular. The location was perfect. So close to Montepulciano, Pienza, Cortona, Siena, and San Gimignano. The stone villa with its arches and beautiful design was charming and welcoming. We felt at home the moment we entered. It was everything you pictured a villa in Tuscany to be. The staff was warm, sweet, and honest. I cannot speak highly enough about Villa Luisa. Truly exceptional! "
Val Rich Pennsylvania USA Sept 2023
A Second Visit
"Can't recommend this property enough. Truly stunning house in a beautiful location. Decorated and furnished to a very high standard. Utterly faultless and overseen by friendly daily cleaning and very helpful owners. "
J Bourdillon Farnham UK July 2023
My Third Visit
"This is my third and, at 4 weeks, longest visit to Villa Luisa. A month went by too quickly! How lucky we are that the Salts continue to share their impeccable home - the gardens are even more beautiful with every visit, the house as comfortable, welcoming and perfectly maintained as always, the pool inviting, olive oil delicious, and views sublime. Samuela is a joy and takes wonderful care of all guests. Villa Luisa remains a perfect retreat in a splendid location. "
L I Toronto Canada June 2023
Our Holiday
"We absolutely loved our stay at Villa Lucia. The house is beautifully furnished, with views to die for. The local area is stunning, and we really enjoyed trying out John’s restaurant recommendations in the towns and villages nearby. It is the perfect place for a relaxing time with friends and or family with a stunning backdrop and everything you could need to enjoy the Tuscan countryside whether from the many different eating or sitting places around the Villa or in the many local hill towns. We had so much fun - swimming, table tennis and endless card games late into the evening as well as many delicious meals. John is an excellent host - thoughtful, attentive and full of ideas and suggestions. Do read his guide! Samuela is the perfect housekeeper, always there when you need her, but you’d never know she was there. We can’t recommend Villa Lucia highly enough and will definitely be back. "
L Thomas, London UK August 2022
A Return Visit
"I returned to Villa Luisa, with a small group of friends, and my second visit was as perfect as I had hoped. It’s hard to believe that the gardens could be even more beautiful than they were when last seen in 2019, but they are. This is a well loved and impeccably maintained property. As others have mentioned, housekeeper Samuela adds to the great pleasure of staying here. The location is splendid for exploring the Val d’Orcia, and there are almost limitless opportunities for country walks (or biking) if you wish to explore all of the ‘white roads’ in the area. The pool couldn’t be more inviting. The owners have taken great care to make their home lovely, comfortable and to provide every convenience. Those of us who can share their dream, by taking a holiday here, are lucky indeed. L Intaschi Toronto June 2022 "
L Intaschi, Toronto, Canada June 2022
10 days in Tuscany
"We cannot recommend Villa Luisa more highly or enthusiastically. As experienced world travellers, we can say with complete confidence that this property is the finest that we have ever stayed in. Podere Terra Bianca is as thoroughly, thoughtfully and tastefully updated as anyone could desire. The property is also as beautiful outside as it is inside. The lofty placement of the house provides an unbroken view the valleys and distant hills. The panorama consists of orchards, vineyards, fields and woodlands. Located between Pienza, a world heritage site, and the medieval and renaissance wine-making hill town of Montepulciano, Podere Terra Bianca is well situated for day trips to Perugia, Siena, Orvieto, Assisi, and Cortona. Podere Terra Bianca offers an exceptional level of comfort and many amenities not typically available in rental properties. Heated floors, wood-burning stoves and a fireplace, a beautiful sound system, built in charging ports, multiple locations for outdoor dining and reading, well designed lighting in and out, and beautiful views of the Val d’Orcia from every window evidence the owner’s remarkable attention to detail. Every room is generously sized and comfortably and tastefully furnished to the highest standards. The kitchen has everything one could need or want and more - minus the terror of learning to safely operate ancient gas plumbing! The bathrooms are in suite with state of the art showers and heated towel racks. Reliable high speed internet access and a beautiful, private office ensure the ability to attend to any work responsibilities that may come up without leaving the property. We have never before experienced this level of comfort and convenience in all of our years of travel in Italy and around the world. We can’t end without saying something about Samuela, the caretaker, or the magical kilometre plus drive from the main road to the house. Simply stated, Samuela is a gift. Smiling, gracious, gentle and always helpful, she tidies up six days a week and, upon request, brings fresh bread and cornetti in the morning. The long, well maintained, farm road winds through woods, an olive grove, and alongside fields before finally arriving at a walled courtyard in front of the house itself. We regularly observed deer, badgers and other wildlife on our trips to and from the house. We even happened upon a momma cinghiale and baby one afternoon. For us, Podere Terra Bianca set a new standard for vacation accommodations. Our stay was a pure delight. "
E Truly, October 2021 New York USA
All this and Tuscany too
"After a glorious week at Villa Luisa in early October it was difficult returning to normal life at home. The setting is unparalleled. From porch and patio, pool and pergola, the ever-changing views of the Val d’ Orcia are seen in the distance. The villa’s gardens are lovely, lavender and herbs for cooking planted at every turn, with hundreds of olive trees in the orchard below. Within, the house itself is beautiful, refined and elegant yet warm and exceedingly comfortable with ample space for the six of us to be together or on our own retreat to our rooms or the draw of the excellent library. The kitchen is a cook’s dream, extremely well equipped with more than enough cookware and china to set a brilliant table. The house is pristine. Unlike other places we’ve stayed where even the best of owners leave evidence of former guests we felt that Villa Luisa was built for us alone. In addition to all this comfort and beauty, the house is watched over by the delightful Samuela, the property manager, and Enea, the gardener, who not only take exceptional care of the property but who on more than one occasion saved us from mishaps (including a flat tire!) that may have wreaked havoc on our trip. All this and Tuscany too, who wouldn’t want to return! "
M McKenna, Princeton USA, Sept 2019
We will return
"It is like staying at a Four Seasons Hotel. Immaculate house in a breath taking location. Gorgeous and spacious gardens with several seating areas. Topped up with a highly attentive owner and daily staff attending to your every need. We will return! "
J Bourdilon, Farnham UK July 2019
This villa is just about perfect.
"Excellent location, private, beautifully restored, appointed and maintained, lovely grounds and views. This villa is just about perfect. The villa is spacious, beautifully restored, and meticulously kept up. It sits at the end of a several kilometer long private drive (that passes through forest and an olive grove) and is completely private. It has expansive views over a large valley from several beautiful patios. There is a wonderful staff of a housekeeper and grounds-person both of whom tidy up daily and take care of the gardens and pool. The gardens are expansive with flowers, herbs, trees, shrubs and a large lawn. The location could not be better: it is about a 15 minute drive from two modest sized historic hill towns (Montepulciano and Pienza) and is within 45 minutes of many more wonderful Tuscan towns most of which feature intimate restaurant options and places to procure local provisions. Finally, the owners (who live off-site) clearly love this place and every aspect of the experience of staying in the villa shows that: they are responsive and go the extra distance to make sure guests have a wonderful visit. Ten out of Ten. "
D Berry Minneapolis USA June 2019
We were delighted
"We were delighted by Villa Luisa from the moment we arrived for a 2 ½ week visit. It has been beautifully restored, appealingly furnished, and is impeccably clean. The house is ideally situated, and extremely comfortable with every convenience, including a perfectly outfitted kitchen. The owners use the house themselves, so this is a well-cared for and loved property. Everything is maintained to the highest standards and, as guests, we are asked to observe a few rules to help keep it that way. The housekeeper, Samuela, could not be more wonderful. She adds to the great pleasure of staying here. The gardens, attentively maintained by gardener Enea, and good-sized pool are stunning. As one of our friends said, she felt that it was just plain ‘good for the soul’ to look out onto the sweeping Val d’Orcia landscape. There are many fine walks (or biking opportunities) in the area on quiet ‘white roads’. We hired a wonderful cook to prepare many of our dinners. The Salts can refer you to her or others they know. It is special to have a local cook prepare at least some meals for you if you want the true flavour of living in Tuscany. LI & DS Ontario Canada June 2019 "
L I Toronto Canada June 2019
By far the best
"Thank you for allowing us to rent your magnificent villa. We have rented homes and apartments in Rome, Lago Maggiore, Cortona, Paris, London, etc. This was by far the best. You have put so much thought and effort into the property that we feel privileged to have been able to enjoy it. Also, Samuela is a gem. Her morning “Buongiorno” was always a wonderful way to start the day and her energy infectious. I wish we had Samuela or someone like her in our home. M H-P CA. Sept - Oct 2018 "
Hall P Sept - Oct 2018
A return visit
"I've been meaning to write you since we returned from another fantastic stay in Tuscany but I was pulled into the vortex of our research and development efforts and am now just coming to the surface for air. Our holiday could not have been more perfect, and your home is as beautiful as we first remembered it. Thank you so much for allowing us to enjoy it once again! Alan B Arlington MA Sept 2018"
AB 2nd visit, Sept 2018
Attention to every detail makes this villa so special.
"We spent a blissful 2 weeks. The villa is beautiful and has the charm of an old farm house that has been totally renovated with an amazing kitchen and 5 beautiful bedrooms and baths. It has been decorated with charming interiors and many comfortable spaces. The 10 minute ride up to the villa on a dirt road, driving thru herds of sheep, wildlife and olive groves is spectacular. The views from the villa's terraces are incredible. Overlooking a national park, miles of hills and medieval towns in the distance gives you the full vista of beautiful Tuscany. The Salts are perfectionists and their attention to every detail makes this villa so special. The landscaping and the beautiful pool ,the tastefully appointed rooms with every amenity made our stay so memorable. The location between Pienza and Montepulciano was perfectly situated with less than 15 minute ride to either town. We hope to return soon. Thank you John and Brigid for creating such a magical home. ***** Richard & Janet Weinberger "
R&J Weinberger May 2018
Exquisite home in Tuscany
"We had a wonderful time in this exquisite home in Tuscany. The house was superb with every detail thought of. The pool and scenery were just what we were looking for. The location, between Montepulciano and Pienza was ideal and allowed for day trips and then a return home to this lovely secluded home with beautiful vistas. We split our time between dinners at excellent local restaurants and also having gourmet Italian meals prepared in the fully equipped kitchen. The home could not have been better appointed. We have rented many homes over the years but this was, by far, the best one. The owners have thought of everything and their detailed instructions made for a very easy stay. We cannot say enough nice things about the villa and hope to return for another stay. DD"
David D MD USA June 2017
A special villa
"The property was special and so are the owners. Samuela, who does most everything, is charming and always available. The views are breathtaking. The house is well furnished with everything you can imagine and more. The kitchen is a delight and the appliances are top of the line. The pool is large and cleaned each day. The grounds are impeccable and enjoyable to explore. It was the best rental property in Italy that we have ever stayed in. "
R.H. Ca USA May 2018
Absolute perfection
"This beautiful villa exceeded our expectations. It looked gorgeous from the photographs but it was even more breathtaking in person. The views out over the valley could be seen from the 2 outside patios and the bedrooms. There was plenty of seating for the 4 couples that were in our party. The kitchen and the rest of the house had every amenity you could want. There was ping pong, bocce ball, badminton, board games and of course a pool that was surrounded by hotel quality chaise lounges and umbrellas. Samuela, the housekeeper was so friendly and kept the villa spotless while we were there. Renting it was a simple and easy process and the owners are so accommodating with suggestions of restaurants, things to do in the area and general information about the house and the area. We simply can't say enough good things about this villa!! "
CS IL USA Sept 2016
The Villa Luisa exceeded all expectation
"Villa Luisa is a beautiful villa located off the main road, where you are surrounded by mountains, olive gardens and vineyards. The grounds are impeccably landscaped and the outside pool is truly breathtaking. The main house has all the charm of a historic Tuscany farm house. However every modern luxury convenience is provided for - the gourmet kitchen, the indoor dining room, the beautiful outdoor dining space and the various patios with unbelievable views which surround the house. We cooked in nearly every night as two of our guests were outstanding chefs and we would eat wonderful Italian meals outside to the sound of Italian music - It does not get much better than that. The Villa is perfectly located between Rome and Florence and nestled among numerous historic hill towns - Pienza, Montepulciano, Orvieto, and on and on. The train station to Florence or Rome is only 25 minutes away. We cannot write a complete review without mentioning Samuela, the housekeeper. She was such a wonderful treat to see every morning and she was so helpful. Since we did not speak Italian and she does not speak English we had fun communicating to one another thru Google Translate. All in all, this Villa exceeded all expectations. The owners were meticulous in their design and thoughtfulness. We could not have picked a better place to stay and will certainly stay again on our next trip to Italy. R &PG MA USA July 2016 "
R and PG MA USA July 2016
And did we mention dining?
"Thank you so much for sharing your fabulous villa with us. We had a wonderful week enjoying everything the area had to offer - dining, shopping ,touring, wine tasting, dining, walking,dining, and did we mention dining? Thoroughly enjoyed coming back each afternoon or evening to your comfortable home. Samuela and Mario were so friendly, helpful and welcoming. We all hope to be fortunate enough to return again. Again thank you! Grazie mille. PS We love your Villa on the Hilla!"
K&M Seattle USA Oct 2015
Amazing vistas
"If you’re seeking a beautiful refuge in the heart of Tuscany, look no further. Beautifully renovated, yet comfortable and relaxing. Two spacious patios for relaxing and outdoor entertaining. Lovely pool area. Amazing vistas. The house and gardens are well kept by Samuela (housekeeper) and Mario (gardener), who are very helpful and welcoming. We were a capacity group, and being in the kitchen, house and grounds didn’t ever feel crowded (my personal test). It’s far enough away from the main road that you don’t hear any traffic, yet close enough for numerous day trips to explore the nearby towns. Highly recommend."
PK USA June 2015
Perfect villa for family reunion
"Arriving at this Villa was nothing less than perfect; the long winding drive to the villa and the first sight was very impressive. The property and grounds were in pristine condition, and the view of the surrounding countryside was breath taking. The owners were very responsive if needed. The housekeeper was also very knowledgeable and helpful with any questions we had. The property is perfectly located so close to so many day trip activities. We are very much looking forward to returning to this region and this villa."
CB, CA USA, May 2015
A truly memorable experience
"What a wonderful week we had! Your home is beautiful, comfortable and interesting from design concepts to art selections. Samuela did a great job of looking to our needs and Claudia's suggestions were spot on for our day trips. Between you, your resources and our travel agent in Cincinnati, our group of 6 from there and Charlottesville VA had a truly memorable experience."
TK, Charlottesville USA, October 2014
Our holiday at your home has been magical
"Our holiday at your home has been magical. You have built such a spectacularly authentic yet modern villa that has provided a wonderful location from which we have been able to explore this part of Tuscany. When you set about the task of transporting this dilapidated structure into the beautiful space experienced today, you infused your love of the countryside into each corner. The views are beautiful, enhanced by your exceptional landscaping and gardening - clearly a touch of the English countryside as well! Thank you for providing us also with your friend Claudia's experience; it was invaluable in planning our week here. We could not have found a better place than Villa Luisa to spend the week with our dear friends."
MB, Ohio USA, Oct 2014