This is the third time we’ve stayed at 6Stanco ... and we come back for good reason. Ruth, our host, delivers an outstanding service. She’s completely in the background unless you need something - then she’s right there, sorting it for you if you need help. For example, my husband is a wheelchair user and we wanted to use the local train to Florence (only an hour away, incidentally - I’ll come on to location next...). She got up incredibly early and escorted us to the station, helping us load the train with husband, wheelchair and 2 kids (I could manage myself!). She and her husband host a meal with all the residents each week (villa & 2 loft apartments) which is lovely - they speak fluent French, Italian (obviously) and English. They also do a bit of German & Dutch.
6Stanco is positioned LITERALLY perfectly for exploring so many parts of northern Italy. Bologna (where we usually fly in to) is 40 mins away (and as stunning as Florence, in our view), Modena (worth it just for the authentic balsamic), Ravenna, Parma, Pisa, Ferrara and, of course, Florence are easily doable as a day trip.
You won’t find more stunning views across the border in Tuscany...we don’t think, anyway. There are two fab restaurants within walking distance of the property and they’re very reasonably priced too. If you want to stay in, the villa has its own patio with STUNNING sunset views. It also had a full kitchen with many basics included for your use (who wants to buy a bottle of olive oil or condiments on holiday??) it even has fresh filter coffee waiting for you in the fridge (alongside the bottle of Prosecco). The loft apartments also have cooking facilities and a shared large patio - you can even use a BBQ.
We’ve always had a really good time with the other guests - but you can keep yourself to yourself too, if you prefer. The pool is plenty big enough for all the guests, but is often free during the day as many people go visiting the numerous cities and towns on day trips. So if you fancy an indulgent rest one day, you’re likely to have peace & quiet.
We’ll be back again - we can’t imagine a better place to spend quality family time together...and we’ve done a decent amount of travelling over the years.
You need to hire a car to get to places, but you won’t be disappointed - be ready to experience the best of italy!