Back again to report that we leave on our trip in less than three weeks.

As I mentioned earlier we are a family of 6 adults and 4 children. If anyone has any ideas regarding special activities for the kids; restaurant suggestions in the towns of the Val d'Orcia; how and where to celebrate as a family my wife's Birthday it will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

This may help. Have fun !

GOOD EATS IN TOSCANA

I have never been called “ BOB THE FOODIE” , but here are some of the best places to eat in Tuscany based on feedback from many of my clients. Reservations are suggested for most!

$=inexpensive $$=moderate prices $$$= expensive

FLORENCE:
Osteria del Cinghiale Bianco $$ Across the river & very good.
La Giostra $$$ Excellent, but you must book in advance

SIENA:
Osteria Le Logge $$ Great place for lunch and near Il Campo
Cane e Gato $$$ A fixed price & menu for a true feast—allow 4 hours

LUCCA:
Buca di San Antonio $$ Best in town and near San Michele
Il Giglio $$ In the piazza of the same name---favorite with locals

SAN GIMIGNANO:
Il Pino $$ Very good typical Tuscan fare
Le Vecchie Mura $ Good value for a tourist town

MONTALCINO:
Taverna Grappolo Blu $ Popular with locals as well.
Ristorante Poggio Antico $$ Excellent cuisine 5km south of town at winery location
Enoteca Osteria Osticcio $ Best wine tasting & small meals in town

MONTEPULCIANO:
La Grotta $$ Near San Biagio church & very good
Café Poliziano $ Great place for lunch on shopping street
Osteria Acquacheta Best bistecca in Tuscany

PIENZA: Latte du Luna $$ Best choice in this charming village

BAGNO VIGNONI: Osteria del Leone $ Good lunch choice in this spa hamlet

MONTICCHIELLO: La Porta $ Charming place with outside terrace

SAN QUIRICO: Trattoria al Vecchio Forno $ Good food & fair value

Hi Allyboy

Afraid I don't have any recs for you - but I am wondering how your experience has been with Emma Villas? Would you recommend them?

Thanks
Mat

Hi Mat,

We had a very positive experience with Emma Villas. The house we rented was wonderful, in good condition and well stocked with snacks and drinks when we arrived. Before we arrived they had requested that we leave ( in cash 1500 euros) with the housekeeper who would deduct various costs upon our departure. I requested that it only be 500 euros with a credit card deposit of the balance. The week we were in the house it was extremely hot and we used the air conditioning a great deal and ran the dishwasher and laundry machines all the time. It ended up costing us the 500 euros. I can only vouch for the house we stayed in, however, I found Emma Villas to be reliable , responsible and professional. Good luck!