Perfect for group or family vacation
Submitted: September 18, 2012
Stayed: June 2012
In searching for just the right villa near Florence for a group of 4 couples, I researched about 450 villas throughout Tuscany. Villa Luciano offered all the right qualities and amenities that we wanted: enough private bedrooms and baths, plenty of public space, gorgeous grounds, an inviting pool area, a decor that spoke to the villa's history and authenticity, and a great location within a small village that would be convenient for day trips to Florence. All 8 of us fell in love as soon as we arrived! Situated on 10 fully landscaped acres on a street that overlooks this mountain village of 1100 friendly Italians, we had a commanding view on every terraced level of the grounds and spent hours enjoying all the different sitting areas. Most people in Londa don't speak English but they are very helpful and welcoming. We also felt very safe walking anywhere in Londa. Sandra, the village manager is more than helpful and accessible. We loved shopping locally and did so daily. Two local restaurants offer excellent food. We hired Gabriella, the available cook two nights and were so glad we did. She introduced us to the simple Tuscan dishes that have made Italy famous and showed us how are Americanized version of "Italian" is far less appealing. The website accurately represents the villa, its cleanliness, the amenities, the privacy, and the authenticity of the villa as an 18th century home. The Spagnoli family has retained the villa's grandness as a family estate but kept it comfortable and useable. My husband and I renewed our wedding vows in the courtyard, surrounded by rock walls draped in honeysuckle, hedges rows, and potted plants. We couldn't have scripted a more Italian or more romantic setting. Leaving the villa and Londa was very sad for all of us. It was the perfect place for our group, the kind of Tuscan experience we'd longed for, and it was convenient to Florence and other towns. While a car is not absolutely necessary, we were glad we had them. They allowed us to drive off into other areas and explore the stunning countryside.
Helpful votes: 5/5
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
No
