I sort of hate to write this review because I don't want the secret to get out about this place. Suite D'Artista is phenomenal in every way! It's like having your own private flat in the gorgeous Tuscan hill town of Montalcino!
We rented the smallest guest room, the Basilè, for two nights. It was absolutely beautiful! This room is tucked away from the main area so you have a little private garden and gazebo right outside your front door. (See my photos, including the picture of the view from the front door)! The flat was tastefully decorated in a modern style with furnishings from Ikea. The room had a weird layout but it worked and was perfect for us. Internet was free, and the in-room refrigerator was stocked with a few essentials. The kitchenette was nice as well (a basket of snacks was also provided, as was an in-room Nespresso espresso machine).
The bathroom was modern and outfitted with pretty travertine stone. A rainfall shower head and large soaking tub completed the room and made for a relaxing time. It also impressed me how the owner thought of EVERYTHING -- our room had wine glasses, a bottle opener, paper towels, plates, a cheese knife, candles and matches....it was amazing. Everything you could possibly want or need was in the room! The windows opened easily for fresh air and the a/c unit worked great.
The property is very quiet and in an old neighborhood. I loved being surrounded by the brick houses and had fun watching the locals (and their dogs) go about their everyday lives. There are several fruit trees and an herb garden (guests were welcome to pick and eat the fruit and use the fresh herbs), a grill, and a washing machine that you can use for 5 Euros per load (no dryer, you could hang your clothes on the clothesline in the courtyard).
The property is at the bottom of a very steep hill. You can walk into town but the direct route is up a flight of VERY steep stairs. We needed the workout, but older folks should be aware of this. There's also a longer way to walk into town but it's still uphill and may prove difficult for some. Montalcino is a quiet, sleepy little town and is absolutely gorgeous. It really feels like you are in some sort of fairy tale movie!
The owner, Lisa, is a true gem. She is SO kind, caring and considerate. She is a wonderful proprietor and gave us great suggestions on things to do in the area. She welcomed us like members of the family and helped us when we needed her (yes, even when our car got STUCK on one of the town's hilly streets late at night -- she came to our rescue). Her demeanor was always SUPER positive and wonderful, I can't say enough about her and her property. She is one of the most genuine, kind people I have ever met anywhere in the world.
The biggest negative is this: the property is located within the old city walls. We had a rental car and driving is NOT easy. First off, the property is VERY difficult to find and the narrow streets are VERY difficult to navigate. In fact, the only reason I'd hesitate to stay here again is the driving. It is so stressful and parking is tough too. There's a very tiny lot attached but it fits only 3 cars; when it's full, you must find parking on the street out front. If you are not comfortable driving on VERY narrow and hilly streets (I mean SUPER NARROW, we got our car stuck a few times) and one-way / dead end streets, you might not be comfortable here. I don't want to dissuade anyone from staying at this property because it is so nice, but the driving is super difficult and people should be aware of that.
I can't wait to return to Montalcino. I will definitely stay here again in a heartbeat. It's one of the greatest guest houses in the world. read more