I'm sure I replied here, but I don't see it, so forgive me if this shows up twice. I recommend the Locanda Rosati in Orvieto. Since my first post I found this link that has many photographs:
www.italyby.com/locandarosati/pages/gallery.htm

In addition, I have my photos and comments:
http://www.travelswithdiane.homestea...e23Umbria.html

Many day trip options from this charming home. Half board is highly recommended here where the guests dine together at one table. The food is so good, they sell their own cookbook.

I think it was probably around E130 per room per night - that's what we would normally pay.

However, what is clearly sinking in to my perspective of Tuscany is that our expeience was not unique - looking at some of the other posters links there do seem many Poderes with great hosts and stunning settings. It just seems to back up my opinion that this area is the best destination in the world - we're off there for a week on Saturday.

markrosy, I think you hit the proverbial nail on the head. I loved the two I have stayed at in Tuscany & Umbria, but I know that they are just two examples of great places to stay...

We are staying at Fattoria Viticcio outside Greve. We leave next week. Will post when I get back.
http://www.fattoriaviticcio.com/

Hi, last spring I visited Assisi and stayed on a lovely farm house 6 miles from Assisi. April is definetly the best time of the year to visit this area as all the flowers are blossoming. It is a very peacefull and tranquil place to stay. On the Slowtrav.com website there is areview about this property at www.slowtrav.com/italy/vr/review.asp?n=2827

The website of the owner is www.casa-rosa.it
Have fun searching!

le boscarecce in Castelfiorentino.

The rooms are lovely, the pool area wonderful, and Susanna is the best.

We have stayed there before, and will be returning next July for 110E- I would suspect that the rates in April would be much less.