Escape to Tuscany: Your Dream Villa Awaits in Dicomano!
Escape to Tuscany: Dicomano Dream or Tourist Trap? My Honest, Messy Review!
Okay, so picture this: you're scrolling through Booking.com, utterly lost in the vortex of travel possibilities, and BAM! "Escape to Tuscany: Your Dream Villa Awaits in Dicomano!" The pictures? Gorgeous. That quintessential Tuscan sunset glowing over a rustic villa, a pool that screams "Instagram me!" and promises of… well, basically paradise. I was sold. Hook, line, and sinker. This is my unvarnished, slightly manic, and probably over-detailed review of the place. Buckle up, buttercups, because it's a rollercoaster.
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Accessibility: A Mixed Bag?
Let's be upfront: I'm not in a wheelchair, but I do appreciate thoughtful accessibility. The website claims to be accessible, but that’s not always true. They have an elevator, which is amazing for those folks who might need it. HOWEVER, getting to the elevator from some of the (gorgeous) ground floor rooms involved a bit of a gravel path and a few slightly uneven flagstones. Fine for me, but a struggle for someone with mobility issues. And while they do mention "facilities for disabled guests" in the generic blurb, I’d really like to see more specific details. Call the hotel and ask directly. Don't trust the website blindly (lesson learned!). Access around the main areas of the hotel wasn't too bad, and the reception was pretty readily accessible.
Food, Glorious Food (and the Occasional Glitch!):
Okay, this is where it gets GOOD and bad. The food is… well, it's Tuscany. The promise of "Asian breakfast"? Forget about it. They did have some dim sum on a weekend brunch, but in the end it was pretty much what you'd expect: a buffet, with a decent selection of bread, pastries, and the usual suspects. The coffee was actually pretty decent (a crucial win!), and there were fresh croissants. Huge points for that. I am a sucker for pastries, though, so maybe take my judgment with a grain of salt.
The "A la carte in restaurant" was a definite win. I spent a memorable evening at the hotel restaurant, savoring the sunset and, more importantly, a plate of the most divine pasta with wild boar ragu. It was seriously so good that I may or may not have licked the plate clean (don't judge!). The service? Spot on. Friendly, attentive, and genuinely happy to be there. And the wine? Oh, the wine. Seriously, this part was a dream.
However… (there's always a "however," isn't there?) breakfast in room was a bit of a letdown. I ordered it one morning (because, you know, lazy vacationer) and it arrived… late. And frankly, not as amazing as the stuff in the restaurant. A bit cold, and the eggs looked a little… lonely. My advice? Go to the buffet, or just head straight for lunch. Or, just don't bother, because the restaurant is what you should really focus on.
A "Vegetarian restaurant" would have made me even happier, but they did have veggie options available, just not a dedicated separate room. I think they could also expand the vegetarian section, and also think they should provide more choices overall, to cater to every diner.
Things to do (or Not):
Alright, let’s talk about the relaxation part. They really lean into the "wellness" vibe. The Spa is decent! It's got a sauna, steamroom, and those magical little foot bath things you think you don't need until you're soaking your tired feet and you realize, "YES, I NEED THIS." The massage was… well, it was a massage. Nothing life-altering, but definitely relaxing. Prices are a little on the higher side, but hey, you're on vacation, right?
Now, the pool with view? Magnificent. I spent a large portion of my time basking in the Tuscan sun, sipping something cold, and pretending I was a movie star. The view is stunning. Seriously, it's worth the price of admission. And the poolside bar? Essential. They also had a Gym/fitness center that had decent equipment. I went and did a workout and it was quite relaxing!
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Secure
This is where Escape to Tuscany really shines. The anti-viral cleaning products (they proudly display the info everywhere) and the whole "hygiene certification" thing made me feel surprisingly secure. My room was spotless, and I felt way safer there than in some other places I’ve been lately. Lots of hand sanitizer, too, which is always a plus. They also had sanitized kitchen and tableware items, no shared stationary, and the staff were all trained in safety protocol. Overall, they seemed to have taken the pandemic seriously, and I appreciate that.
The Room: My Little Tuscan Oasis
Okay, my room. It was the "Deluxe Tuscan View" room, and it delivered. The view was, as promised, breathtaking. The air conditioning was a lifesaver (Tuscany gets hot!), and the bed was incredibly comfortable – very important. The bathrobes were fluffy, the slippers were soft, and I loved the desk and seating area. The mini-bar was reasonably priced, the coffee/tea maker was a godsend, and the complimentary tea was a nice touch. Plus, the bathroom was spacious and came with a bathtub where I could soak my stresses away.
There were minor annoyances, of course. The Wi-Fi wasn't always super-reliable (more on that later). I didn’t understand the bathroom phone either, but who does, really? And the occasional creaking door might have been considered a nuisance by some, but for me, it just underscored the villa's old-world charm.
The soundproofing was pretty good! I never heard a peep from neighboring rooms, which is a major win.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things
I'm a fan of convenience, and Escape to Tuscany mostly delivered. Daily housekeeping was impeccable. the luggage storage was brilliant. They had a concierge who was very helpful and gave amazing advice. I used the ironing service because I'm a disaster when it comes to packing. And the laundry service meant I didn't have to pack a suitcase full of clothes. The car park was free of charge.
Internet: The Digital Detox (or Struggle?)
Here's the deal: the Wi-Fi [free] was… patchy. Fine for checking email, but streaming a movie? Forget it. A true "digital detox" experience! It's listed as available in all rooms, but don't count on it.
For the Kids: Family Fun
I didn't have kids with me, but I saw plenty of families having a blast. They had kids' facilities (a small playground, a separate kids' pool), and the attitude was definitely family-friendly. There was also babysitting service.
Overall: Would I Go Back?
Okay, the big question. Despite the minor hiccups, the unreliable Wi-Fi, the slightly uneven accessibility, and that one subpar breakfast order, yes. Absolutely. I would go back. The location is breathtaking, the food (especially the restaurant!) is divine, and the overall vibe is pure relaxation. It's a place where you can genuinely escape, unwind, and soak up the beauty of Tuscany. It's not perfect, but it's got soul. And sometimes, that's all that matters. But next time, I'm bringing my own router! And I'll definitely be ordering that pasta again.
Escape to the Ardennes: 1832 Farmhouse Charm with Breathtaking Vielsalm Views!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into my chaotic Italian escape, centered around the glorious Villa Vivai in Dicomano. Forget pristine itineraries with perfect timings, this is a vibe. A messy, beautiful, wine-stained vibe.
My Belvilla by OYO: Villa Vivai - Dicomano, Italy - The Unforgettable Itinerary (or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Vino)
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Pasta Panic
Morning (or, whenever the HECK I actually wake up after that red-eye): Arrive in Florence (ugh, those airport lines!). Rental car pickup – fingers crossed my rusty Italian gets me through. The drive to Dicomano… well, let's just say Google Maps tried its best. There were a few "scenic" detours involving very narrow roads and my near-death experience with a Florentine Vespa.
Afternoon: Finally! Villa Vivai! And… breathe. The view! Seriously, pictures don’t do it justice. Rolling hills, vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, a charming little stone house that looks like it jumped out of a movie. I nearly cried, then remembered I needed to find the grocery store. The owner, (whose name escapes me right now, old age is a bitch) greets me with a warm smile, a key, and a bottle of local wine. Bless.
Evening: The Great Pasta Panic of '23. I envisioned myself whipping up a masterpiece – fresh pasta, homemade sauce… reality? I burnt the garlic. Twice. Ended up with a slightly charred, yet still edible, linguine and a mountain of regret. Thank god for that wine! I also attempted to use the outdoor grill, but failed miserably, in the end i ended up eating my half-burnt pasta outside with a nice view
Day 2: Market Mayhem and the Joy of Being Lost
Morning: Dicomano market! Vibrant, bustling… and utterly overwhelming. I bought a whole basketful of things I couldn’t identify. This included some cheese that, let's just say, had character, and a bunch of leafy greens that, after a frantic Google search, I think were spinach.
Midday: A drive to somewhere "nearby". I got hopelessly lost. Like, really lost. Ended up on a dirt track, surrounded by olive groves, convinced I was going to become one with nature. But then, I stumbled upon a tiny, blink-and-you'll-miss-it trattoria. Best. Lunch. Ever. Handmade pasta, the most delicious ragu, and the friendliest people. This is what travel is all about, people!
Afternoon: Back to the villa, to try again the pool, which was cold. Got over it. Took a nap.
Evening: Cooking Class Disaster. I was so excited to finally get the real experience. Ended up making a disaster of a dessert. The chef ended up laughing at me in a very friendly way.
Day 3: Florence Frenzy and a Gelato Meltdown
Morning: Attempted to visit Florence. I tried my best to be a good tourist and visit all the must see landmarks. I got scammed and almost got ran over by a scooter.
Afternoon: Gelato. All the gelato. First, I wanted an adventure, then i ended up having 4 cones.
Evening: I decided to stay at my Villa and relax. I was completely exhausted and needed to rest. I ate pizza outside with a nice view.
Day 4: Wine, Wine, and More Wine (and a Near-Disaster)
Morning: Wine tasting time! Local winery tour. Learning about the nuances of Chianti, the history of the region, the subtle differences in soil… Honestly, I mostly just enjoyed the wine. And the view. And the fact that I wasn't burning anything.
Afternoon: Driving back from the winery, I nearly drove off a cliff. Ok, maybe not a cliff, but a pretty steep drop-off. My heart was in my throat. I pulled over, took a deep breath, and decided I needed more wine, not less.
Evening: A quiet evening at the villa. I sat on the terrace, watching the sunset, and the world just felt… right.
Day 5: Hiking Hysteria and a Hidden Gem
Morning: Tried a hike. Failed miserably. Got lost again, but this time in a slightly more dramatic fashion. Found an abandoned church. It was beautiful and creepy.
Afternoon: A hidden gem, a local trattoria that served the best wild boar ragu I have ever tasted. The owner, a boisterous woman with a twinkle in her eye, kept refilling my wine glass.
Evening: Packing. The dreaded packing. I swear, I bring too much stuff, and then wear like, half of it. This time was no different. I struggled.
Day 6: Departure and the Post-Italian Blues
Morning: Saying goodbye to Villa Vivai. It was hard. This place? It got under my skin. I'll be dreaming of the landscape, the sounds, and the taste of pasta. I had a nice breakfast, and hit the road.
Afternoon: Arriving at the airport. The lines were long. So long.
Evening: Back home. Reality hits like a cold shower. The laundry, the bills, the… regular food. The Italian sun fades. But the memories, the wine-soaked laughter, the moments of pure, delicious mess, those stay. And that, my friends, is priceless.
Ciao Italia! Until next time. I will return.
Escape to Paradise: Luxury Belvilla Mansion in Stresa, Italy!
Escape to Tuscany: Your Dream Villa Awaits in Dicomano! - (Or Does It? - A Messy FAQ)
Look, I'm not gonna lie, Tuscany is *amazing*. Dicomano? Well... let's just say it has its quirks. This is all the stuff you *really* want to know, straight from a very opinionated traveler. Buckle up.
1. Is the view *really* as breathtaking as the pictures? (Because, let's be honest, Instagram lies.)
Okay, fine. The first time I pulled up to the villa... yeah. My jaw actually dropped. For real. The photos? They do a decent job. But the actual feeling of wide-open Tuscan countryside, stretching to the horizon? That’s something else. Sunrises? Forget it. They’ll make you want to weep (in a good way, usually). But, *and this is important*, sometimes…sometimes it's hazy. Sometimes the clouds roll in and you're just staring at, well, clouds. It's not *every* second-of-the-day-picture-perfect, but even the grey days have a certain charm. You know, moody and dramatic. (I'd still prefer sunshine, though, don't get me wrong.) My advice? Take a deep breath and savor every blasted minute.
2. What about the villa itself? Is it actually nice? Will I be fighting off spiders the size of small dogs?
The villa... ah, the villa. Depends on which one you choose, people! I can only speak to the one *I* stayed in. It was… charming. Emphasis on the “charming.” Think exposed beams, terracotta tiles, and a general aura of slightly-worn-in-but-loved perfection. There were, admittedly, a few “rustic” elements. Like, the occasional wonky door that wouldn't quite close. And, yes, a spider or two. I swear, one of them was plotting something. I named him Bartholomew. But hey, you're in the countryside. Spiders come with the territory. You *will* befriend a gecko or two. Embrace it. It's part of the experience. And don't worry, the bathrooms (at least in *my* villa) weren’t *completely* ancient. Modern enough to be functional. Thank god.
3. Is Dicomano just… a town, or is there anything to *do* there? I'm not about to spend my whole trip staring at a field.
Okay, look, "town" might be a generous description of Dicomano. It’s *small*. And… I *loved* it. There's a feeling of genuine, unpretentious Italy there. The pace of life? Gloriously slow. Daily routine? Wake, grab a coffee, and then just... be. There's a market day (check the schedule; it's worth it). A couple of decent restaurants (one had amazing pasta, another had...well, let's just say it had potential). And, yes, there are fields. But those fields are full of vineyards! And the views? Come on! Besides, Florence is a quick train ride away – like, actually quick! So, yeah, you *can* get your art fix. And if you're feeling adventurous, there's hiking. And you know what? I actually **did** spend a few hours staring at a field. And it was wonderful. Just quiet. Just peaceful. It was what I needed.
4. The food! Tell me about the food. Will I need to remortgage my house for every meal?
The food… *swoons*. Alright, deep breath. The food in Tuscany is… well, it's a religious experience. And Dicomano is no exception. The local restaurants? They're not Michelin-starred (usually), but the food is REAL. Pasta made by someone’s nonna? Yes, please! The bread? Crusty, warm, and perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce. The olive oil? Liquid gold. And the price? Surprisingly reasonable. Like, you can eat like a king (or queen!) without breaking the bank. I spent probably the best 30 EURO on a meal I've ever had. The *bistecca fiorentina*? Oh, my god. You *have* to try it. Just… be prepared for a food coma. It’s worth it. Trust me. (I might be drooling a bit right now, thinking about it.)
5. Is there Air Conditioning? (Because I'm from the Sahara, and I can't handle the heat!)
Okay, *this* is a big one. AC? Depends on the villa. Check. Before. You. Book. Some have it. Some *don't*. And trust me, in the Tuscan summer, you'll want it. Or, at the very least, a fan. Sleeping with the windows open is romantic… until the mosquitos descend. (And yes, they *will* find you.) So, yeah, inquire *very* specifically. Otherwise, you're going to be sweating. A lot. And that's not exactly conducive to relaxation, is it? I learned the hard way. The first night was a nightmare! I even thought about moving to the floor. All to escape the heat.
6. What about the pool? Is it as glorious as it looks?
Ah, the pool. The centerpiece of the dream. The reality? Can be… nuanced. *Again*, it depends on the villa. The one I stayed in? Beautiful. Absolutely beautiful. Infinity edge, overlooking the valley, the whole shebang. (That view again!). But there was this... weird algae bloom one afternoon. It was green. Really green. And my pristine, perfect paradise became a bit… swampy. I panicked. Contacted the owner. Turns out, a quick dose of chemicals did the trick. But still. It was a little disheartening, initially. My perfect Instagram photo was ruined. On the other hand, it didn't matter. The water was still refreshing. The sun was shining and I got a great story out of it. Plus, when it was clean, the pool was the biggest highlight of every day!
7. Driving? What's the deal with driving in Tuscany? Am I going to die?
Driving. Ah, the driving. It's… an experience. The roads around Dicomano? They are narrow. Very narrow. And winding. And sometimes, you'll be convinced you're on a goat track. Italians drive… *with passion*. Let's put it that way. They're not always patient, but they *are* skilled, and usually in control. You might encounter a few hairy moments. (Like, a head-on-collision-with-a-Fiat kind of moment). My advice? Rent a small car. Embrace the chaos. And don't be afraid to pull over and let the locals pass. They know the roads. I swear, they know them intimately. Mostly, put your faith in the good angels and use that horn. A LOT. Also, download a good GPS. You’ll need it.
