We are planning a trip in February. While in Tuscany we would like to stay in a couple of Agiturismo's. Because they require an upfront deposit of 30%, I'm just wondering if any of you know anything about "Agiturismo Le Cassette" near Orvieto or "Castella La Grancia" near Siena. Le Cassette is listed in Rick Steve's book and has a good review. Any tips regarding Tuscany or Italy in general would be appreciated.

Sorry, but I must be candid. Feb. is bleak and cold in Tuscany. I would not suggest a rural experience then.

Bob, Thanks for the reply....well then, where would you recommend for February? We are planning on leaving Rome and travelling to Orvieto by car, stay a night and then wanted to stay another night somewhere on the way to Florence. We will drop the car in Florence and train to Venice for a couple of days and then train back to Rome and stay a couple of nights before returning home. So, we hope to stay in a nice place between Orvieto and Florence. Thanks!

Why not stay in Siena? It's a wonderful town and offers you easy access to many of the smaller hill towns.

I agree that agriturismo is risky in Feb. I have looked at places that did not have any heat other than a fireplace, which would be sorely inadequate in February.

I would spend 2 or 3 hours in Orvieto and have lunch, and then continue to Siena for 2 nites Look at Piccolo Hotel Oliveta just outside the Porta Romana. Actually, since you have to access Orvieto from the west side of town by car, I would jog over to S-2 north as you leave and take it all the way to Siena. Bagno Vignoni is worth :30 if weather permits.

Thank you both for your help. We are trying so hard to not make any mistakes for our first trip, so we really appreciate the input

"We are trying so hard to not make any mistakes for our first trip..."

I got a chuckle out of that one! Once you get there, WHEN you make mistakes (it's inevitable) don't let it ruin your day/vacation. My family's list of rules when we travel together: 1)Be flexible 2)Chill out, it could always be worse 3)Be FLEXIBLE.

Respectfully, your biggest mistake may be in choosing February to enjoy Italy.

Check this thread...

http://www.fodors.com/forums/pgMessa...=3&start=0

IMO, there is no bad time to visit Italy.

Regarding Orvieto, please visit the website of Locanda Rosati. It is a fabulous little place a few km south of town. The owner is singular and the evening meal is memorable.

Also, for a great lunch try I Sette Consoli near the funicular stop at the top of Orvieto. You won't be disappointed.

I would agree with the suggestion to staying in Siena. I could see where an agriturismo may be a bit isolated in bad weather. Staying in Siena will let everything be walkable, weather permitting.