Perfect rural retreat in a quiet part of Umbria

I was slightly sceptical when I read the previous reviews about this place. However we were pleasantly relieved that our expectations about Il Granaio were exceeded and my only hesitation about writing a 5 star review is that it will become too popular! The first thing to say is that the photos on the website do not do the place justice. Having stayed in many villas around Europe, the accommodation gardens and particularly the swimming pool were without doubt the best we have stayed in. The design of the Granary Barn has clearly been thought through with even the air-conditioning units, which can often be noisy, being located some distance away. The kitchen is well stocked with a very welcome starter pack including Olive oil and wine from the estate. A real bonus was walking up the drive to pick tomatoes and lettuce from the garden to make delicious bruschetta.

Within a 20 minute drive are the stunning towns of Montepulciano and Cortona. We were amazed how quiet the local area was in August, there was no problem in getting a table at the local restaurants. Perfect destination if you want to get away from it all, if you want a bit of night life this area may be a little quiet for you.

We would have liked to see a guest book with recommendations from other guests of places to see and eat. We had a very friendly fox appear at the door one night - the following morning our flip flops and swimming goggles had gone AWOL - found later hidden half eaten in the garden - suggest bring everything in at night!

Stars: 5

Stay date: 06/08/2016

Review date: 06/09/2016