Mr & Mrs Smith

We could not have been happier with our choice to stay at Conti di San Bonifacio and we will most definitely be returning. We absolutely loved the resort's staff and they made us feel completely at home. The resort has multiple communal spaces with great design appeal, the most welcoming sofas and an Architectural Digest or a travel book always within reach. On one afternoon, we were relaxing in front of the fireplace and the staff laid out a magnificent spread for us to enjoy our lunch right where we were. The food and wine at the resort was the best we had during the three weeks we travelled Italy. Conti di San Bonifacio's chef truly mastered the art of preparing simple meals of only the freshest ingredients that absolutely burst with flavor. We participated in the Complete Wine Experience and the tour was extremely unique. We were actually able to try the wine through different stages of its life. Never have we had a more informative wine tasting experience and again we couldn't have asked for better company. A quaint town to visit that is worth the 10-minute windy drive is Massa Marittima. There are plenty of tiny cafes and cute shops. Also take the time to wander the resort's grounds. On our little adventure we ran into over three hundred sheep followed by their owner. It was one of those encounters that made our stay even more memorable.

Conti Di San Bonifacio Wine Resort far exceeded our expectations and created an unforgettable memory for us. After not knowing about Mr & Mrs Smith, we signed up, and after our first night in one of their recommended hotels we rearranged our whole trip in order to use their hotels. At San Bonifacio we were treated exceptionally. The food and service was above and beyond our expectations. Learning about the vineyard and the wines was a bonus on this fabulous property. I have been in the hospitality business my whole life and have not experienced a better stay. Please eat at this resort when you are there. The food is very authentic and made from the heart. What a great trip.

Mr and Mrs Smith ask for restaurants or bars or attractions to be covered in this section. We can't say anything about them because from the moment we arrived at the Conti's Wine Resort we didn't want to do anything else. Walking on the 120 acre estate through the vines, olives and then the undergrowth (an adventure) following the wild boar tracks was a good way to work up a thirst.

We did rent a motor yacht (40 feet with a skipper) to take us to Elba for the day which was a great way to spend the day. Manfredo (the Conti) organised that for us and recommended that we lunch at the Cala Nova restaurant near Porto Azzurro on Elba, which was an inspired recommendation. The only downside being the jellyfish that have invaded the Med this year, making swimming a nerve-wracking experience.

This hotel is fantastic, possibly best yet.

We had a very special pre-baby short break at Conti di San Bonifacio, a truly beautiful resort that felt so much more than just a place to stay. The owners, the lovely Manfredo and Sarah and their two adorable boys, happened to also be there which made the whole experience feel so personal and unique. We were looked after beautifully by Amanda, who not only cheerfully took on board our many, many pregnancy and personal dietary requirements but also helped me fulfil a long-held ambition to make my own pasta! At last, my pasta machine can come out of the back of the cupboard!

There are lots of lovely day trips close to the resort - a car is a must if you plan to see the surrounding area. (although get something sturdy - our flash vintage sports car looked great but was rather temperamental!) After a day of adventuring, it is such a treat to come back to a roaring fire and a glass or two of wonderful Poggio Divino wine.

We couldn't recommend Conti di San Bonifacio enough, (and we are quite fussy travellers) it is such a pleasure to discover a high quality resort that still has a very intimate, personal touch. We're very much looking forward to our crate of wine from Manfredo to be delivered so that we can relive the experience!

JCA
18th April 2010