My husband and I spent two glorious nights here in early October of 2011. We made our reservations based on the tripadvisor reviews, but as glowing as they were, words still cannot do this wonderful B&B justice. The hosts, Terry and Marcello, are so warm and funny they elevate the experience to a new level. Yes, the location can be a little hard to find, but that just makes it better because it is remote. You feel like you are in on some secret that no one else knows about. The room we had was wonderful, from the super comfy bed to the amazing bathroom and personal touches (I wish I took the lavender spray!). We were lucky to have unusually warm weather, which allowed us to use the beautiful pool and just relax. We had left one day to take a drive to Arezzo, but got too stressed out with the drive (Italian drivers are a little intimidating). We pulled over and asked ourselves why we were putting ourselves through such stress when we have a sumptuous oasis to go to. So, we went back and soaked in the water and sun for the afternoon! The breakfasts that everyone writes about are everything and more. It is a great time to meet your fellow guests, and the eggs were the best I ever ate (thanks Marcello!). The only thing that I regret is that we weren't able to partake in one of the meals (the oven was on the fritz, so it was cancelled). I had wondered when I read the reviews before we went why so many people would plan to stay in the same place again, I didn't get it. I thought we would want to see new places on our next trip. NOW I UNDERSTAND. My husband even asked when we got home if it was possible to feel homesick for a place that isn't your home. That is how big of an impression Casa Portagioia makes! We are planning on going back to Italy in a year or so, to visit the places we liked best. Casa P is on the top of our list. There is a reason you need to book here well in advance. It's all about Terry and Marcello and their wonderful hospitality. They are very funny (yes you, Terry) and so accomodating. If you need advice on where to go for a day trip or reservations at a good restaurant, Terry and Marcello are more than happy to help. We went to one restaurant where all we had to say was "Terry and Marcello" sent us, and we were treated like royalty. We had one of our best Italian meals of our trip there. Believe everything you read here, Casa P is a true gem. We look at our pictures even months later and daydream about going back. We can't wait! This time, we will stay longer. If 2 nights were so wonderful, we can't imagine how 3 or 4 nights will be!

This was our third visit to the Casa and Terry, Marcello and the little girls. Our stay this time was for 3 weeks in one of the apartments. It was wonderful. 3 weeks of rest, relaxation and good food and wine. Not to mention the witty repartee of Terry and the wonderful cooking of Marcello. Nothing was too much for them, to make our holiday a time to remember. Terry was always ready for suggestions of places to visit, and places not to miss out on. We have become good friends with Terry and Marcello and have said the Casa is our Tuscan home. We hate leaving and as soon as we do we begin planning to come back. Alas as we live in Australia we can't come every year. So we are planning for another return in 2013/14. Terry and Marcello deserve the cudos and awards they ahve received for the Casa and the welcome they give to all who come up the drive. My advice to anyone thinking about staying at the Casa, is YES. Book it now, don't go anywhere else, and don't stay just for a night or 2. Stay for the entire week or two you won't be sorry. Terry and Marcello we'll be back asap.

Casa Portagioia is very pleasant and personal. The owners thought about every detail and if they missed one, they will go out of their way to accommodate your needs. The grounds and the rooms were beautiful, the breakfast was fantastic and the personal touch with great restaurant recommendations tied it together for a great pick. The only slight down is the location, but that really depends on your plans. If you feel like you need to hit every hill town mentioned in your tour guide, this may not be the best home base, but if you’re more into relaxing with some travel, this is a great option.

My husband and I stayed at this lovely bed and breakfast in June of 2011. We loved everything about Casa Portgioia! Terry and Marcello were the perfect hosts! Marcello is a fabulous cook and quite charming; Terry is very witty and a prankster. Both are very knowledgeable about the Tuscan region and give great advice about where to go and what sights should not be missed. We don't usually go to the same place twice, but we may have to make an exception with this lovely oasis in Tuscany!

Murphy and Linda Mellberg