Mark Dishop – Cambridge, MA, USA

A lovely herb garden is also provided just outside the door for use by guests, featuring thyme, rosemary, sage, mint, oregano, parsley, chives, tarragon, a large bay tree, and some others I can’t remember. (There is also basil earlier in the season). The washing machine and clothes drying rack and clothesline were also very handy. Dennis and Gilly have created a beautiful landscape and gardens that seem to go on forever, including a large olive grove, numerous other fruit trees, an herb and flower garden, and fields of grasses and wildflowers, all artfully arranged. The views from the patios outside the main guest house, as well as the upstairs bedrooms, focus on the olive groves, hillsides, pool and garden. The ancillary guest houses feature wonderful views of Lake Montedoglio from their living room or patio. The property offers complete privacy, situated on a hill down a gravel road with no neighbors in sight. What made our stay most enjoyable, by far, was our delightful interactions with our gracious hosts, Dennis and Gilly. They were incredibly welcoming, attentive, and ready to offer insights into local culture. They pointed us toward the best local providers of wine and organic produce, and made sure we knew when each city was holding a fair we should see. They always respected privacy, but were only a door knock away if needed. Our daily discussions with them made the whole experience fun!