Travellers Reviews
Submitted by Katy Lunsford, Manchester, United Kingdom
Be aware that the parking is a long way form the accomodation! After the golf cart takes you and your luggage up to the top of the village there is another 5-10 minute walk/climb (luggage is transported for you)up a rocky uneven path to the accomodation! It was no problem for us but could be for older/less mobile guests! You have to ring when you arrive so they come and get you in the golf cart so it is useful to have a mobile phone.
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Excellent in every aspect, one of the most beautiful places we have stayed. Breakfast was a highlight - it was huge and delicious - coffee, tea, bread, cheese, ham, salami, yoghurts, jams, chutneys, bruschetta, omelettes, cereal, cakes, pastries and even what seemed a lot like tiramisu! This is all taken on a terrace overlooking the valley - definitely the best breakfast view I've ever had! However, note that there is no shop/bar/cafe/restaurant in the village or in walking distance so you need to go to the next village or nearest town to eat!
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Excellent, we needed to leave early to catch our flight and the staff were extremely helpful and made sure our luggage was transported to the car for us in planty of time.
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The breakfast is incredible (see above!). Although it is an incredible place, it is
really not suitable for anyone who has trouble walking as it is a long way up and the last stretch you cannot even take a golf cart and it is very rocky and uneven! It is remote - No restaurants or places to buy food in the village so you need to be prepared to do a lot of driving around. The restaurant recommended by Maria in the next village (about 20 min drive back down the hill and up the other side of the valley, so not very close!) Vico Pancelorum (?) was very excellent, home-made pasta and local ingredients, good price (48Euros for 3 courses, wine and water for 2) Not much going on in Bagni Di Lucca, the closest town, restaurant there not so good and over-priced. Perfect if you are looking for a quiet, peaceful, idyllic place with breathtaking views.
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An idyllic location in an ancient medieval village virtually untouched by tourism, breathtaking views from all the rooms and the pool, magical when it is lit up at night. Rooms very spacious, comfortable and stylishly decorated with lots of natural stone and wooden beams. An incredible experience and amazing value for money. Location is tranquil, peaceful, remote (!) and perfect for a romantic getaway or honemoon. The area is beautiful and there are lots of interesting places to visit in the vicinity. Lucca is less than an hour away and Pisa airport less than 2 hours.
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Submitted by Leon Vandenrijt, 3600 Genk, Belgium
It wass very good, the owner took us with her little electric car to our accommondation. Because my back hurt me we could have another 'room' which was better at the same price. they were very helpful.
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The staff was very helpful, polite and friendly. the gave us information about the area, restaurants, history, etc.
We enjoyed our stay very much.
we shall certainly return to Agrilago in Casoli.
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The helped us with our bags to the parking area. We could pay by creditcart.
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That the village of Casoli is carfree. It's a medievial village with small streets, very quiet, with beautiful views.
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A necessity to visit.
Price / quality very good.
The little village is peaceful, not crowded.
For a good restaurant you should take your car (5 km)
Located very good to visit the garfagnana, Bagni di Lucca, Lucca, Pistoia, Firenze, ...
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Submitted by BALDUS DE WIT, Lisbon, Portugal
Unique, rustique place in thge Alpuen Alps, close to Luca & Pisa
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Submitted by John Keable, Shrewsbury, United Kingdom
our hosts were extremely kind and helpful. Breakfast was excellant. The view was amazing.
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The view from the property was worthy of 'room with a view' addition.
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Superb! An amazing place to stay for a wonderful view plus peace and quiet. The journey to the proprerty could be daunting but the view makes it worthwhile.
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Submitted by Colin Duncan, Yeovil, United Kingdom
Very efficient and helpful with getting heavy cases up the steep path to our hotel.
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For both of us, the best place we stayed in Italy, having spent 1 night in Pisa, 3 nights in FLorence and 2 nights in San Gimignano previously.
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A fantastic service as we had to leave early to get back to Pisa airport, and breakfast was provided at 0645 and we had no problems checking out at that time also.
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The setting of the village is stunning with amazing views.
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The best kept secret in Tuscany! Highly recommended although I'd like to keep it a secret to make sure we can go back. Staff were very friendly and helpful and the whole experience was magical.
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Submitted by Paul Stott, Union Hall, County Cork, Ireland
Our hosts at Agrilago were extremely hospitable and pleasant, making us very comfortable without being intrusive. Breakfast was a real treat of delicious home cooking. The website cannot really do justice to the atmosphere of the property and its magnificent setting.
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Parking is about 300m from the guesthouse and access is via a fairly steep hill along narrow streets. We benefitted from the daily exercise although a golf cart is available on request to transfer luggage and people. The property and rooms are clearly not accessible for the handicapped and this should be made clear.
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An unusually peaceful and wonderful place, perched in a beautiful setting and serviced by kind and thoughtful hosts; thoroughly memorable and great value for money.
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Submitted by Christopher Leppard, Bergen, Norway
Christopher has left no specific comment, however has rated the overall satisfaction rate with a 100% score, his arival experience with a 83% value and his check-out with a 89% rate. |
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Submitted by Karen Cole, United States
We loved his place!
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There is a bit of a hike to the accomodation we stayed in. It would be difficult for an elderly person to manage unless they are in good physical health.
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Spectacular mountain views.
Memorable, quaint surroundings.
Secluded.
Quiet.
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Submitted by Steve Burton, Australia
Im hopeless with directions at the best of times. We arrived late & were confused about the location of the property, no signage at the town.
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Very happy with the property & location for the price, one comment though, nothing mentioned on the site about having to walk up a steep hill through the town to get to the property as the streets are too narrow for cars. Didn't worry us but could be very bothersome for elderly or handicapped people.
The kids really enjoyed the place. & the local people very freindly.
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no problems with checking out at all, the hosts werevery helpful & freindly.
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the walk up to the villa should be stated....just in case it doesnt suit some people.
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would definitely recommend it as an authentic italian experience. Great views, Private, great restaurants near by & good value for money in the area compared to other parts of Europe.
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Submitted by Richard Spratt
Very steep climb to the appartments would not be suitable for older / less-fit people.
Views are spectaclular.
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Well worth a visit.
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Submitted by Ole Krog
Ole has left no specific comment, however has rated the overall satisfaction rate with a 79% score, his arival experience with a 91% value and his check-out with a 89% rate. |
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Submitted by Vladimir
I just hope nest time I am more into Italian language than now. It was excellent!
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I just loved the way the people let me do nothing and enjoy it! Very relaxing and helpfull. Loved it all the way.!
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The buggy is very helpful in the narrow and turning streets of Bagni di Lucca - Castello.
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Just show how much the people are helpful and all smiles. They enjoy it too.
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This was a place where you go for relaxation and peace of mind. No worries and just good food and smiles.
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Submitted by Andrea Judit
after arrival, the staff picks guests up with a golf car and take them up to the rooms. it is a lot of fun, as there is barely any space for even a golf car on the narrow, winding, medieval streets!
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Agricola Il Lago is situated in an excellent little town with only 50 residents. The rooms are well-equipped, and staff is extremely helpful and flexible.
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Credit card is accepted.
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A very romantic place with friendly staff. Excellent breakfast!
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Submitted by Michael
Maria was very helpful in finding the hotel. She advised to eat dinner before we came and then patiently waited to meet us.
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This experience was terrific. We would definately stay here again and have already recommended it to friends. The view was gorgeous. The apartment was quiet and relaxing. We hated to leave!
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It was very quick. The staff knew what they were doing.
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The town is up a hill. It can seem like you are going in the wrong direction. Call and trust the directions that they give you.
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I would say it's a beautiful farmhouse in the mountains. That the staff is extremely nice and helpful. That it is very relaxing and calming to stay here. It's in a great location for a base of sightseeing in Lucca, Pisa, Cinque Terre, etc. It is definately worth the drive!
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Submitted by Irmi
Very nice and friendly.
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I only have good things to say. The owners were helpful and kind but not 'invasive'. The rooms are big, clean and pretty. However, where is the swimming pool that was mentioned in the web site?
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Go there!
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Submitted by Mateusz
Everything was perfect. We had not expected such privacy and so great conditions for relaxing and disconecting.
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Breathtaking views from the windows - one could not expect anything better.
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A perfect place for those who want to spend their holidays far from busy cities, noisy tourists and spend lovely, quiet evenings drinking wine on the terrace overlooking the wonderful valley of Grafagnana.
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Submitted by Leslie
The property is difficult to find. Not realising that it was so high up and with only one sign post to the village. More specific directions are needed. You park in the village and the owners pick you up in a golf cart. This is the start of a wonderful most relaxing holiday.
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Whilst swimming pool was not available we would not expect it at that time of year. The property can only be described as exceptional and unusual due to its position and views to die for.
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Very helpful, couldnt do enough to help with cases etc
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This is a most unusual location with views that are fantastic. The owners are lovely people who will put themselves out to help.
The ladies of the house are friendly, helpful even despite language differentials. Oh and she makes the best cakes in the world for breakfast...ask for the chocolate one.
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Secluded, peaceful, friendly and oh so relaxing. If you enjoy walking,rambling etc this is probably a GREAT location.If you want to just crash out this is fabulous
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Submitted by Bruce
Bruce has left no specific comment, however has rated the overall satisfaction rate with a 87% score, his arival experience with a 91% value and his check-out with a 78% rate. |
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Submitted by VANESSA
VANESSA has left no specific comment, however has rated the overall satisfaction rate with a 79% score, his arival experience with a 91% value and his check-out with a 89% rate. |
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Submitted by Keith
Keith has left no specific comment, however has rated the overall satisfaction rate with a 100% score, his arival experience with a 74% value and his check-out with a 78% rate. |
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Submitted by Laura
We had instructions to call when we arrived in the village of Casoli. We did not have a cell phone but a resident was very helpful and we found the farmhouse without any problem. For most Americans, the village should be described as somewhat remoted.
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The property was very clean and comfortable. Being early in the travel season, the rooms had not been used much and needed some airy out.
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Everything was fine.
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The property location is more beautiful than a web site could describe.
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If you are looking for a rural, hillside village to stay in, then Agrilago is a wonderful part of any trip to Northern Tuscany. I wish we could have stayed longer.
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Submitted by Gregory
We made it to the general location just fine, but then couldn't find the apartment. We finally knocked on someone's door and they called the receptionist for us. She then came to greet us.
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The accommodations were very clean and spacious. The staff was very helpful. They even gave us the materials needed to build a fire for a barbeque. Some of the services mentioned on-line were only available during peak season. We were unaware of this upon arrival.
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Not the greatest location for children. Although the staff was very kind to them (showed them the turtle and turkey), the area is dangerous for children. Lots high walls and places they could fall a great distance. OUr children did love it though. They thought the walk to the lake and seeing the herd of goats was fabulous.
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An incredible place built into the side of a mountain. Gorgeous views. Totally relaxing, peaceful and quiet. Definitely has the WOW factor!
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Submitted by Lorne
It was late when we arrived and Monica was waiting for us with the covered golf cart. She was very helpful and very nice.
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Due to the season we were not able to access the pool and walk around the grounds as much as we would have been able to in warmer months. Still the view and the town itself was spectacular.
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The breakfast that is provided for a nominal fee is well worth it.
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Very memorable. The suite was clean, comfortable, and furnished an artistic manor.
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Submitted by angela
It should be mentioned that in addition to parking 400 meters from the location that there is an additional 200 meters of uphill climbing on a winding staircase and hill with no type of vehicle able to take you. It was not a problem for us but might be for many others.
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It was amazing. Have already reccommended it to others.
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The fact that there is a lot of uphill, up stairs walking required to reach your accommodations and thate once you arrive you must leave to go get dinner. No food is availaable other than breakfast.
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Beautiful, unreal, like a postcard picture.
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Submitted by Christelle
We dind't expect to be so lost in the mountain, the village didn't have a bar and restaurant, we had to drive every where, no TV or radio in the room, very basic and simple. But I have to say the view was beautiful and the people so friendly. To go to your room you have to be fit, after 5mn walk in the narrow road to arrive at the top of the village there is another 5mn walk on a unmade road, but they do take your luggage up there. Very difficault to answer to question 9, it wasn't very well describe and it wasn't worse
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You need to state that some of the rooms are more than 10mn walk from the car and half of it is an unmade road, so forget the fancy shoes. This place is good for chilling out, but not good if you are here to visit Tuscany, from Luca to the village it's only mountain road.
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We had a really enjoyable time, everyone was so friendly and the view was stunning, the swimming pool always clean. It's a shame there was no restaurant or bar and we had to drive every where, you really need a car and no fancy shoes has you will need to walk up the hill to go to your room, but it was so peaceful. A bit fare to travel everyday to visit places. But a great place if you want to chill out.
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Submitted by Judith
We had no idea how remote it was, so questioned if we were going right way. The directions said an electric car would take us from the parking lot to the hotel, but when we arrived there were no signs to Agrilago and no way to contact them to come get us. Someone we tried to ask directions from asked someone else to call the hotel. Someone who was not physically fit could NOT have gotten to and fro the hotel on foot. Fortunately, at 62 and 65, my sister-in-law and I were able to do that. The hotel was just lovely and the people very friendly. It was very clean and the setting was beyond the best. BUT...the web site was woefully lacking in the specifics of where the hotel was, how remote it was, and how difficult to get to it was.
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I checked one of these, but please see previous comments.
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We had to go to the house to find someone to check us out, but they were very friendly and it was no problem. Apparently we were leaving before they expected us to. No one was around to check out the night before. There was not a 'reception desk' where you could ask questions; it was more like you were staying in the annex of someone's home. I paid what they asked, and honestly did not compare with my records. I checked #12, but don't really know.
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Better signage; statement to remoteness; information about access to hotel (how to contact them from the parking lot, how steep and long the walk is from there - if you go sightseeing, you have to walk back to the hotel, unless you have a cell phone to call them to come get you); there really HAS to be some way to contact the hotel from the parking lot. If the men had not been there fixing their car, we would have gone back to Lucca or something. There were NO signs to Agrilago anywhere!!!
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Half way to Heaven and worth the effort if you are up to it. The views were magnificent. Be sure to look inside the church if you find it open...the church is very plain from the outside and beautiful inside!!
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Submitted by Marilyn
It would have been helpful if more village names were mentioned in directions as Ponte de Maggio was some way into the hills.
Also that there was a 200-300 metre walk up hill to accommodation. In rain this could be difficult.
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The accommodation mentioned washing facilities were available which is one of the reasons for taking this property but we were charged extra for laundry. Happy to pay for the washing powder Maria provided but didn't think 12 euro was warranted. We didn't realise until after we left that the 3 paying parties of our group had been charged 4 euro each.
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It would be helpful to mention there are very few food stores nearby as we arrived Sunday night with no food. Luckily got pizza down bottom of hill. Also that the road to Casoli is one lane for 2kms and you need to beep the horn as your vehicle approaches blind bends.
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View was fantastic and facilities had a certain rustic charm. Hosts were very friendly. And while we did enjoy the uniqueness of Agrilago, it was a fair way off the beaten track and is best suited to those wanting a really quiet and more isolated location.
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Submitted by Catherine
Having no global phone we had to find a phone to call for pick up and made several attempts before the phone was answered.
In addition, the owner did not show up until check out day and we feel we missed much information we might have received if she was there because of the language barrier.
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It would be helpful to prepare guests of the driving distance to get food. We arrived having no dinner provisions and did not want to drive another 45 minutes back down the mountain to get food.
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We had tried to communicate we would like the bill the night previous to leaving so we could leave very early. We did not receive the bill until the next morning when we knocked on the owner's door.
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The road to the villa is VERY steep and small. We only had one driver able to attempt. It is also stated you can walk down the hill to get something to eat. This place is a bar and most of the time is closed.
The pool is approximately a 15 min. walk straight uphill, not next to the property as the pictures reflect.
Knowing Italian is helpful.
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Beautiful place to stay; arrange for food service if possible or be prepared to drive 1.5 hrs. round trip to the nearest town to eat.
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Submitted by Anonymous
We were greated at the bottom of the hill and
our luggage was taken up. They toured us
through the villa and gave us breakfast and
coffee for the next morning. They were very
help in recommending eateries.
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We enjoyed waking up to the sounds of nature.
The view was spectactular and the hosts were
very friendly and helpful. The grounds were
wonderful and we enjoyed our morning coffee
and evening coctail outside. We would
definetly stay there again and would recommend
to anyone to stay there.
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The hospitality is wonderful. The people are
very friendly and helpful. The view from the
villa is breathtaking. The villa is very
spacious and clean. It's like being at home.
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Submitted by Anonymous
The guest has left no specific comment, however has rated the overall satisfaction rate with a 87% score, his arival experience with a 100% value and his check-out with a 89% rate. |
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Submitted by Anonymous
Ad 1 - we were directed by a GPS-Navigation System
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Submitted by Anonymous
The guest has left no specific comment, however has rated the overall satisfaction rate with a 87% score, his arival experience with a 91% value and his check-out with a 89% rate. |
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Submitted by Anonymous
The following comment is NOT a criticism. Rather, it is meant to be helpful and constructive.
When we arrived in the area it was late at night and very dark. Although the printed directions were quite good, we feel that a signboard on the SS 12 at Ponte Maggio, showing an arrow to Il Lago and clearly indicating the turn-off to Casoli village, would be very helpful.
When we arrived in Casoli, although the directions had given us a number to telephone, we could not find a public telephone anywhere, so had to knock on the door of a private house, in order to telephone Agrilago and ask for them to fetch us in the golf cart. Although it was so late, the people at the house were very kind, and allowed us to use their telephone. In future, it would maybe be a good idea to instal some sort of private intercom system from the Azienda to the Agrilago parking, from which the guests could call without disturbing other people.
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We loved our stay at Azienda Agricola Il Lago, and have already recommended it to friends. There is such a feeling of peace and tranquillity. We are just sorry that we could not stay longer on this occasion. The owner and all the staff could not have been kinder, nor could they have done more to make us comfortable and welcome.
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Everything was conducted very smoothly, and in a friendly and efficient manner.
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The nearby hill-top village of Casoli is an absolute gem. Closed to traffic, and absolutely unspoilt. It is like stepping back into previous centuries, and is wonderful to explore on foot.
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See above comments
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Submitted by Anonymous
I was surprised to have an additional walk
to the rooms. Better to say its nearly
climbing to the rooms, as the golf car which
pick you up from the car park is just able
to serve you half of the way.
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Submitted by Anonymous
The road is very ardurous to the accomodation, and the walk up to the rooms was hard as well. While it was ok for us, some people would have a hard time with it. Views are spectacular!
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See above.
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A wonderful very out of the way setting. The town is tiny, so you must be prepared.
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Submitted by Anonymous
the cart up to the farm house was a bonus surprise! and definitely added to the charm of the experience
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The village is a no car village, and the walk up the hill to the house would not be suitable for the unfit
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Great get away, very quite and peaceful. True tuscan experience, with all the charms.
And it has a pool! bonus points.
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Submitted by Anonymous
The directions were not clear upon parking at the Agrilago parking lot, however, our stay was fantastic after our check in. Anna and Monica were the best hostesses and we hope to return again.
Gerilyn A. Kleve
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The property description should state the accomodations is in a hamlet on a mountain ridge since we were in shock at the ascent to get to Casoli, in addition to the upward, stone streets to get to the property. Fortunately, we are young and able to easily climb these streets but it should be made more clear for those not interested in the isolated accomodation. We loved it but it was shocking upon our arrival.
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No store or restaurant in Casoli.
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Breathtaking views, outstanding breakfasts and the kindest hosts we could have ever asked for.
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Submitted by Anonymous
As one of our party was pregnant, I was very annoyed at the long climb from the car park to the house. Also, the map provided on the website is misleading to people who have not been to this area before.
However, the people were great, the scenery wonderful so it was a good holiday destination for the physically able.
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See part 5.
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Car access. More detail required. I know this will put some people off, but disabled people would be grateful.
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Friendly, stunning scenery.
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Submitted by Anonymous
Did not realise that the property was 5000ft up a mountain!
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Did not realise that the property was 5000ft up a mountain!
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Very good, fantastic views,
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Submitted by Anonymous
I would state that hairpin turns are necessary to get to the place. And that it is far away from Lucca. 45 minute drive.
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Romantic but far away.
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