Podere Sant'Elena

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.

We booked as we had read all the amazing reviews and we were not disappointed! Barbara and her staff cannot do enough for you, the location is perfect and the view of San Gimignano is stunning! The pool was never busy and there were plenty of sun-beds and places to sit in shade. We were in room 8 and we had our own little terrace with loungers / table & chairs. We would highly recommend this wonderful find!

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.

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.