Two years ago we stayed at La Gazzara, and just returned from our second visit- this time with friends- and were just as impressed as before. We felt such a connection with the B&B- they truly know the meaning of "hospitality" and customer service. The place itself is a converted 13th century abbey, updated with comfortable, elegant, high-end furnishings. It is immaculate and peaceful. The perfect blend of old world charm with modern amenities. We've stayed in a brick loft room both times. The beds are comfy, the place is quiet, and the view overlooking the countryside is beautiful and serene. It reminds you of all the post cards you have seen from Tuscany.

Off the courtyard are the common areas- a gorgeous living area, with a huge fireplace where we made a fire and drank wine several evenings. La Gazzara is owned by Castell'in Villa, an aclaimed winery in the Chianti region. At the B&B you can help yourself to their reserve or vintage wine selections at any time day or night, then just have it added to your bill.

The living area adjoins the breakfast room, where a very nice, traditional breakfast is served each morning and is included in the price of the room. In addition to cappucino, cereals, fruit and fresh bread is prosciutto, cheese, and eggs if you like. In the summer, you can enjoy your breakfast on the expansive terrace.

The B&B also has two pools- one outdoor, one in, along with a sauna and Jacuzzi. Everything is immaculate- you feel like you've fallen into a dream and are being treated like royalty.

Truly, the best thing about this place is the people, and the gracious way they treat their guests. In 2004, we visited Tuscany for our honeymoon and found a place online that turned out to be a real disappointment. By sheer luck, we ran into an American couple and started talking about lodging. They told us about La Gazzara, where they were staying, and how delighted they were with it. We rushed over there the next morning and continued the rest of our trip at this wonderful place. They make sure everything is taken care of. Gloria, who manages the B&B, serves breakfast, helps with whatever we needed in the room, and assists with restaurant reservations...anything she could do to help. She even provided suggestions for day trips, including maps and directions. Wow- what a help!

Was great to return in 2006 to see it was just as fantastic. We've told several friends about it, and they've stayed there, loved it, and recommended it to other friends. It's been rather unknown, but we know what a find it is!

The last thing to know is about their restaurant- also called Castell'in Villa. This place serves phenomenal dinners- perhaps the best we have ever eaten anywhere - and we are serious foodies. The best thing is to let their chef, Massimo, take care of you. No need to order off a menu- just let him handle it. We had 6 courses of pure bliss. Incredibly fresh and intriguing, prepared like it was for a photo shoot with increadable attention to detail and blending of flavors. We were delighted to accompany our meal with a 1971 Castell'in Villa Chianti Riserva then move to an outstanding 1997 Castell'inVilla Poggio Delle Rose Riserva -WOW! You cannot miss this restaurant- it is just too good.

If you are looking for the perfict blend of charm, taste, wine, atmosphere and service, this is the place to stay while in Tuscany.