We loved staying at Il Portone, and selected it based on the good reviews on TripAdvisor. Our correspondence with Luciana was efficient and friendly. So, when we arrived, she greeted us by name, not just as travelers.
The setting is the former farm and lands in her husband’s family - tastefully renovated: simple and characteristic. Each guest apartment is set in a variety of restored two story buildings that are built down a hillside, some with entrances directly from the patio, and others that lead to second floor units. The dwellings create a backdrop for the landscaped terraces that cascade down to the property entrance. There, in August, we enjoyed a setting that blended sunny spots and shaded areas with places to sit, relax and contemplate the setting or the wonderful view over the countryside. Those tables and chairs outside were absolutely inviting. The cool breezes were perfect.
Before we left we saw several apartments, and each is a bit different, but all have the essentials for cooking, and something a bit special (ours had a great domed bedroom). Luciana was more than helpful in offering us tomatoes from the garden, and a few other kitchen staples.
If you don’t want to drive, the walk into Volterra is about 15 minutes. Exiting the property, you can’t help but be impressed by the ancient Etruscan gate, the Porta Diana. It is simply beautiful, and folded into the edge of the property makes staying there a plus. Volterra’s long history provides travelers with wonderful museums, a fascinating Roman amphitheatre, picturesque streets with a great medieval feel. And, there are not too many tourists. It is definitely a wonderful place to visit without all the crowds of other Tuscan destinations. Staying at Il Portone was indeed part of our positive experience in Volterra. We’d love to return some day.