It happens sometimes to find, after the departure of our guests, a note of thanks for the hospitality received, compliments for the beauty of the place and the care of the apartments, the appreciation for attention, care, availability we seek to express in the management of our farm ...
Sometimes we find simply a drawing like this one of Margaret, one of our nice (and skilled!) guest from the United States.
This makes us happy and proud of our work, where human contact is so important.
What better information for those looking for a farm (and best advertising for us!) than direct opinions and feelings written by guests that have already been at Frallarenza?
Thus, we ask our guests to leave online comments on the portals where Frallarenza is present; we will also report them here on our website with direct link to the original sites to guarantee the reality of these reviews.
If you were a guest at Frallarenza and want to leave a comment, these are direct links to the pages where you can write your review:
NB: In January 2014 www.ricksteves.com, a US portal dedicated to European tourism very popular with the Anglo-Saxon world, has been the subject of a general restyling which unfortunately involves the abandonment of the pages "graffiti wall" dedicated to the free comments of guests on travel experiences. In particular, there was a page dedicated to the Italian agriturismos with many reviews from our guests that we will always remember for their friendliness and warmth, and for this reason we have decided to keep them on this page.
The pages of "graffiti wall" are still available (for now) only on the web archive to an address inaccessible from the new portal. The links we have put point to these archive pages.
Below we have copied, with their own links, guests reviews received on sites where Frallarenza is present from the beginning of our activity to the beginning of 2014. You can find the new reviews from 2014 onwards directly on Tripadvisor, Agriturismo.it and GoogleMaps:
26 January 2014 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Excellence Continues at Frallarenza: This is my third stay with Francesco and Serena at their beautiful agriturismo. We again reserved the large apartment in order to have lots of room for four travelers to spread out over a week. The large apartment is a great place to stay for an extended period because you feel like you can move in, unpack, get comfortable and almost feel like you live in Italy.
There are three full bedrooms, one with an attached bathroom. There is also a second bathroom not attached to a specific bedroom that has both a shower and separate bath tub. Additionally there is a loft area with two single beds in order to allow for quite a few people to stay. All rooms are quite large and very clean, with tile floors, and hand-made items by Serena that provide color and personality.
The main living area is also spacious with a kitchen, dining and lounge space all together. The kitchen has a fridge, stove, oven, coffee maker, wine glasses, dishes, pots/pans, everything you could need for your stay. The dining area has a large table and the living area has a stone fireplace, couches and a flat screen tv on the wall. Very inviting place to be.
In addition to the great place, you have a bonus of Francesco and Serena. As all reviewers have mentioned they are warm and gracious hosts who are amazingly talented and very hard working. After three stays over several years I can honestly say everything is as well maintained as our first stay. I could see little things that have been added since my last stay, but there was not one thing in poor repair or showing wear over the years we've been visiting. I have no idea when Francesco and Serena get a chance to sleep!
Obviously this will not be my last trip to Frallarenza. Not only do I love staying with Francesco and Serena, but to me, this is a great location for driving around the countryside to visit the little hill towns nearby (or even to grab a train in from Orvieto to Rome).
ES, Dallas, Tx USA
15 January 2014 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Great property in great setting: For about 15 years I go on vacation predominantly in the farm, I was also in those indicated by well known guides. The A. Frallarenza is certainly one of those that I will remember for a long time, and I hope for and I plan to come back .. The apartment is studied in detail and with good taste, it is also extremely convenient for the space that offers both for the care that Mr. Francesco and Serena dedicate the reception and comfort. The owners are two two special people, because the whole is enriched by a simple and true generosity. This allows you to enjoy your holiday in a pleasant and 'hot' from many points of view. I recommend it with flying colors, whether on vacation with friends, or with the family.
Maria Grazia B., Milano, Italy
(Google Translation)
Ottima struttura in ottimo ambiente: Da circa 15 anni vado in vacanza prevalentemente negli agriturismi, sono stata anche in quelli indicati da guide molto conosciute. L'A. Frallarenza è sicuramente tra quelli che ricorderò a lungo, e in cui spero e conto di tornare.. L'appartamento è curato nei minimi dettagli e con buon gusto, inoltre è comodissimo sia per lo spazio che offre sia per le cure che i sigg. Francesco e Serena dedicano all'accoglienza e al comfort. I proprietari sono due due persone speciali, perchè il tutto è arricchito da una generosità semplice e vera. Questo permette di vivere la vacanza in un ambiente piacevole e 'caldo' da tanti punti di vista. Lo consiglio a pieni voti, sia in vacanza con gli amici , che in famiglia.
Maria Grazia B., Milano, Italia
04 January 2014 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
A nice place for the start of a new year and change: The business card of this farm is already there all during the first telephone contact: in complete availability and kindness of Mr. Francis and Ms Serena, owners and operators of the facility. With a group of friends, we chose it as a place to spend the last two days of the end of the year at the Umbria Jazz Winter. From here Orvieto is reached within about 25 minutes, or along a road with more curves in nature, or a more straight through the town of Allerona.
The apartments are made clean, cozy, comfortable, well-heated and rich aesthetic and functional details that make you feel at home.
Ms. Serena realizes ceramic objects - mostly in shades of blue - and scarves to the frame in fine yarns. I've had acquired one, hot and colorful. Even the oil of olives picked by Mr. Francis is remarkable and rivals that of my parents in Puglia. Ms. Serena is also a great cook but do not show it. And 'normal! Otherwise guests would not go away anymore.
The creativity here is a winner! I'd love to go back. We'll see. Aura Lei
Aurelia C., Pescara, Italy
(Google Translation)
un bel luogo per l'inizio di un anno nuovo e di cambiamento: Il biglietto da visita di quest'agriturismo è già lì tutto nel primo contatto telefonico: nella completa disponibilità e gentilezza del sig. Francesco e della sig.ra Serena, proprietari e gestori della struttura. Con un gruppo di amici, lo abbiamo scelto come luogo in cui trascorrere gli ultimi due giorni di fine anno in occasione di Umbria Jazz Winter. Da qui Orvieto si raggiunge nell'arco di circa 25 minuti, percorrendo o una strada con più curve immersa nella natura, o una più diritta che attraversa la località di Allerona.
Gli alloggi realizzati sono puliti, accoglienti, confortevoli, ben riscaldati e ricchi di dettagli estetici e funzionali che ti fanno sentire a casa.
La signora Serena realizza oggetti in ceramica - prevalentemente nelle tonalità del blu - e sciarpe al telaio in filati pregiati. Io ne ho acquistata una, caldissima e colorata. Anche l'olio delle olive raccolte dal sig. Francesco è notevole e fa concorrenza a quello dei miei genitori in Puglia. La signora Serena è anche una ottima cuoca ma non lo dà a vedere. E' normale! Alltrimenti gli ospiti non andrebbero più via.
La creatività qui è vincente! Mi piacerebbe poter tornare. Si vedrà. Aura Lei
Aurelia C., Pescara, Italy
04 November 2013 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.1
Great for those who love spending time together: Bridge All Saints 2013. Six adults, three boys and a little girl in the large apartment, suitable to welcome us all with comfort and equipped with everything you need. We were really good and we will return.
Antonio Lucente, Italy
(Google Translation)
Ottimo per chi ama stare tutti insieme: Ponte di Ogni Santi 2013. Sei adulti, tre ragazzi e una bimba piccola nell'appartamento grande, adatto ad accoglierci tutti con comodità e dotato di tutto il necessario. Siamo stati veramente bene e ci torneremo.
Antonio Lucente, Italia
17 October 2013 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
We love staying at agriturismo Frallarenza! I just completed my second stay with Francesco and Serena at Frallarenza and we are already planning our return trip. The apartment is every bit as beautiful as in the web site photos, but the photos cannot capture the wonderful peace of staying at Frallarenza. You will just have to experience that yourself. We were welcomed with a bowl of cherry tomatoes and fresh figs from the garden, and these were replenished throughout the stay. The kitchen is equipped with everything you would need, including some of Frallarenza's own olive oil (yummy!). Francesco and Serena are wonderful hosts!
Mel, Ohio USA
07 October 2013 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Wonderful Place to Stay! I just completed my second visit to Frallarenza and can't wait to return. My husband and I stayed in the small apartment, which is small only in comparison to the large apartment. It is spacious, with a kitchen, living room/dining room combination, bedroom and bath. And don't forget the private porch which is lovely and peaceful. Serena and Francesco are wonderful hosts. Extras include a supply of their own olive oil, fresh produce from their garden, and the prettiest homemade crostada. I had fresh figs every day - heavenly!
The location is quiet and dark. When the sky is clear you will see so many stars it is hard to find our common constellations, and the Milky Way is clearly visible.
Mel, Ohio USA
11 October 2013 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.1
We love Frallarenza: We just returned from a week at Frallarenza, and we will be back. It is extremely beautiful and peaceful. Serena and Francesco are wonderful hosts! The small apartment is filled with Serena's beautiful handiworks and is very comfortable. You'll love it here.
Mel, USA
10 October 2013 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
Frallarenza in Umbria: I recently completed my second stay at Agriturismo Frallarenza. I can't recommend it highly enough. The apartment is beautiful, the surroundings are amazingly peaceful, and the hosts, Serena and Francesco, are wonderful!
Mel, Ohio USA
05 July 2013 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Love Frallarenza: We are just finishing out amazing week in the large apartment at frallarenza. We are traveling with 3 children ages 3-7. The apartment was perfect, larger than we needed but lovely. So clean and being welcomed with a breakfast crostata, dinner ready to be warmed and some staples was such a treat.
We had Serena cook for us one night when we had friends visit and it was sublime and so reasonable. We also did a cooking class with our kids and the family staying in the smaller apartment. We made homemade gnocchi with pesto. So much fun and delicious.
The pool, dogs, grounds are perfect distractions for the kids and the apartment is so comfortable and clean, we don't want to leave.
The location is a twisty 15 minutes from Orvieto but the views and setting are bucolic. We made easy trips to Pienza, bagnoreggio, todi, pitigliano. There are so many other places to see but these excursions kept is very busy.
Don't have a moments hesitation booking your vacation at frallarenza.
Mary Kate, West Hartford, CT, USA
05 July 2013 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
Agriturismo frallarenza: Loved frallarenza agriturismo outside Orvieto. Serena and Francesco are amazing. We were traveling with 3 young children and this place was perfect with the pool and dinner in the fridge and breakfast on the table when we arrived. We had easy access to Pienza, bagnoreggio, pitigliano, todi. Serena cooked for us and some guests one night and we had an amazing evening learning to cook homemade gnocchi with pesto in their kitchen. You will love your stay at frallarenza.
Mary Kate, West hartford, CT, USA
28 April 2013 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
An oasis of peace: Browsing the internet we found this house in 15 km from Orvieto we wanted to visit. The hospitality of the owners was excellent. Rooms are spacious and clean. We were made to find a loaf of bread and a homemade fruit tart, as well as the ingredients for breakfast. Are you surrounded with an incredible silence! An ideal place to relax. However, there is digital TV and satellite fta, line internet access. In short, nothing is missing.
Gorni Rota, Bergamo, Italy
(Google Translation)
un'oasi di pace: Navigando in internet abbiamo trovato questa casa vacanze a 15 km da Orvieto che volevamo visitare. L'accoglienza dei proprietari è stata ottima. Camere spaziose e pulito. Ci hanno fatto trovare una pagnotta fatta in casa e una crostata di frutta, nonchè gli ingredienti per la colazione. Sei immerso nel verde con un silenzio incredibile! Un posto ideale dove rilassarsi. Comunque c'è tv digitale e satellitare fta, line internet wireless. Insomma non manca niente.
Gorni Rota, Bergamo, Italia
02 April 2013 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.1
Rating 10 for Frallarenza: Good morning, after living past in this beautiful farm we returned home with sickness Umbria :-)
The credit goes undoubtedly to the beauty of the structure and the natural environment where located, inter alia, be not far from other goals are important to you (and I mean both natural and human attractions, such as the different and all beautiful towns, or rural villages that riporano the Middle Ages). The common factor that has affected us both being in the city or in the countryside or in the car on the road, is the landscape beautiful.
Finally, last but not least, we must congratulate the management of the farm: a really nice family, very helpful and welcoming. We will not tell even a defect of the stay, because we have not found.
Greetings from Elisa and Marco, Italy
(Google Translation)
Voto 10 per Frallarenza: Buongiorno, dopo il soggiorno passato in questo splendido agriturismo siamo tornati a casa con il mal d'Umbria :-)
I meriti vanno senza dubbio alla bellezza della struttura e al contesto naturale dov'è situata, senza tra l'altro essere lontano da altre mete importanti da visitare (e mi riferisco sia ad attrazioni naturali che umane, come le diverse e tutte belle città vicine, o i borghi rurali che ci riporano al MedioEvo). Il fattore comune che ci ha colpito, sia stando in città o in campagna o in macchina durante gli spostamenti, è il paesaggio: stupendo.
Infine, ultimo ma non meno importante, dobbiamo complimentarci con la gestione dell'agriturismo: davvero una bella famiglia, molto disponibile e accogliente. Non vi diremo nemmeno un difetto di tutto il soggiorno, perché non l'abbiamo trovato.
Saluti da Elisa e Marco, Italia
24 January 2013 (soggiorno Luglio 2012) www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.1 & www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Vacation Excellence in Italy: Believe everything that is posted here, it is not exaggerated, you indeed get carried away when you think about how splendid your vacation was at Frallarenza!
Now what to add? We stayed at Frallarenza in the large apartment, for the last three summers with our 4 children... and we will definitely return again.
Francesco and Serena are very nice and excellent hosts. All is arranged with a great eye for detail and passion to create a home away from home.
The food they served at arrival or as surprise during our 2 weeks stay is delicious and made with vegetables and/or fruit from their garden.
The location is great, beautifully situated on the hills, very quite and with splendid views, yet close to Orvieto for an evening dinner or to the highway for day-trips to Rome, Siena or Firenze. Also the medieval towns like Assisi, Todi or Pittigliano are within easy driving distance.
But you do not need to leave Frallarenza, in fact everything you need to relax and disconnect is there.
Thanks Serena and Francesco for creating such a great resort where one can have the vacation of his life!
Tomas Van den Abeele, Belgium
03 January 2013 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
A place where you simply have to go back: We stayed for New Year's Eve in this bell'agriturismo with ns.amici, including children and say that? A real farm, very nice place, even in detail both in the interior (furniture, texture, accessories in the kitchen, washing machine, free wireless, etc.) in which the external ones.
Serena and Francesco, the hosts, very kind and hospitable, in short, a place where we would go back tomorrow! Highly recommend it.
Sara N., Tivoli, Italy
(Google Translation)
un posto dove semplicemente bisogna tornare: Siamo stati per capodanno in questo bell'agriturismo con i ns.amici, bimbi inclusi e che dire?un vero agriturismo, posto molto curato, anche nei dettagli sia negli spazi interni (arredamento, struttura, accessori in cucina, lavatrice, wireless gratuito, etc) che in quelli esterni.
Serena e Francesco, i padroni di casa, molto gentili ed ospitali, insomma un posto in cui vorremmo tornare domani! Lo consigliamo vivamente.
Sara N., Tivoli, Italia
18 Dicember 2012 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2
We'll be back: Frallarenza is such a wonderful place, we have to come back...
We spent a week in the little apartment. Way too short! We had a marvelous time. Sightseeing Orvieto and other places, and chilling out around the apartment and at the pool. We felt so much at ease. The owners did a superb job creating such a beautiful place.
What can we say more? Come see it for yourself! We highly recommend Frallarenza to anyone who loves quietness and privacy and beautiful nature.
Gonda and Mari, Netherlands
07 November 2012 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2 & https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos & www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
A gem!: We loved Agriturismo Frallarenza, near Orvieto. We were 3 women staying in the "small apartment", which was a perfect size. The owners, Francesco and Serena, have the gift of ensuring your needs are met (and exceeded) but allow you to explore and enjoy on your own, while they tend to the hard work of running a farm. Their kindness, enthusiasm and passion for what they do is apparent.The apartment was enhanced with family furniture and hand made ceramics and weavings by Serena. Enjoying the bounty of the land, such as their newly pressed olive oil, fresh fruit eggs, as well as Serena's treats were a highlight. The house is solar powered, and there was always hot water and heat when needed. (We were there in a warm late October, but the nights and mornings were
cool.) Francesco spent unhurried time with us, giving us ideas and maps for our day trips. We stayed for 4 nights, but wished we had more time to slow down and savor Frallarenza. The setting among the groves and the Umbrian hills was magical. Highly recommended!
Elisabeth, Jacksonville, FL, USA
27 October 2012 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2
True paradise: We could not have wished for a better stay. The hosts were always ready to make sure we had a wonderful stay. They made everything was okay, they offered us their fresh vegetables, gave their ideas for trips and offerd us a warm welcome with great food made by Serena.
A place to come back!
Diter & Sammy, Belgium
29 July 2012 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
Agriturismo Frallarenza: Let me add my vote for the joy of staying with Francesco and Serena at Agritourismo Frallarenza! The apartment was beautiful and comfortable; Francesco and Serena are absolutely delightful; the location is ideal; and I enjoyed every minute of my stay. I'm planning to return next year.
Mel, Ohio USA
17 July 2012 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2
Wonderful stay: I had a wonderful stay at Agritourismo Frallarenza! My apartment was beautiful, clean, and comfortable and filled with examples of Serena's pottery. Every day Francesco and Serena left me a bowl of fresh produce: apricots and figs straight from the tree, strawberries and zucchini right out of the garden. They were friendly, helpful, and met all of my needs. The location is great. It is very quiet while still having access to major roads and services. I would definitely stay at Frallarenza again.
Mel, USA
16 July 2012 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2
Dream weekend : A stay perfect: lovely place, fresh, delicious home, practical and comfortable .. with everything .. every tiny detail is accurate in every detail ... all in simplicity and harmony .. what is the true difference ... Serena & Francis adorable .. that kindness which leaves you a discreet sign .. and then, lovely pool, walking paths by magic, medieval hamlets everywhere .. will definitely not wait! thanks: D
Zinzi-nin, Italy
(Google Translation)
Fine settimana da sogno: un soggiorno perfetto: posto incantevole, fresco, casa deliziosa, pratica e comoda..dotata di ogni cosa..ogni minuscolo dettaglio è curato in ogni particolare... tutto in semplicità e armonia.. ciò che fa la vera differenza...Serena & Francesco adorabili..quella gentilezza discreta che ti lascia un segno.. e poi, piscina deliziosa, percorsi per passeggiate da incanto, borghetti medievali ogni dove.. torneremo sicuramente: non vediamo l'ora! grazie :D
Zinzi-nin, Italia
27 June 2012 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2
Mr. and Mrs. Miluso: Wow! A wonderful place with the most gracious hosts. We felt welcome even before our arrival as we had emailed back and forth several times with all questions answered in a timely fashion. I can't say enough nice things about Serena and Francesco. The farm is in a beautiful and convenient location for exploring the surrounding towns. We made the wise decision to have a cooking lesson that took hours to prepare while we learned old family recipes; then, of course a feast that left us with that satisfied after Thanksgiving dinner feeling. We were in the large apartment that was spacious and well equipped with signs of Serena's handy work (ceramics and weaving) everywhere. Two days just wasn't enough to spend at this most delightful place.
Gail, CA, USA
26 June 2012 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
A perfect Italian experience: A most wonderful place to use as a home base to explore the Umbrian area; or to park it and just relax. We only had a two night stay and wished it had been more. The farm is beautiful and the hosts, Serena and Francesco were so kind and generous that we really felt welcome and well cared for. The "large" apartment was spacious and well equipped, stocked with breakfast food, drinks, etc. We had the good fortune to take a cooking class one evening. What fun! Both Francesco and Serena shared their family recipes, cooking for hours then having a grand meal in their wonderful kitchen. Serena also gives ceramic and weaving classes; and you will see her handy work in many places. The whole time we were there, we pictured returning with our entire family.
We can only hope.
Gail, CA, USA
26 June 2012 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
umbria: The Agriturismo Frallarenza was wonderful; primarily because of our hosts, Francesco and Serena. The place was beautiful. We stayed in the large apartment with three bedrooms, a loft, two bathrooms and fully equiped kitchen. We took a cooking class with both hosts sharing family recipes. It was definitely one of the highlights of our trip.
Gail Sunnyvale, CA, USA
24 June 2012 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Love the location and the folks that run it: If you would try to identify the characteristics that make a perfect place to stay, like location, facilities, people and environment look no further than Agriturismo Frallarenza. The proprietors are really special people that make you feel like family including a dog named Gigi. The cooking class was out of this world and the location ideal for seeing the little and big hill towns with a minimum of driving. How could you ask for more?
C. Shoemaker, CA, USA
24 June 2012 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
Agriturismo recommendation: We stayed at the most wonderful agriturismos you could ever hope for. The Agriturismo Frallarenza is splendid. The location a few miles from Orvieto offers the best location for the many hill towns and the people that run it can not be matched. They are folks that you instantly fall in love with. If you are looking for a perfect place to stay check them out.
Charles Shoemaker, Sunnyvale, C USA
20 June 2012 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2
Mr. And Mrs.: We had a wonderful stay. Great host and accommodation near some of the great spots in Italy, that are just a few miles away. You could not find a more pleasant place to stay.
C. Shoemaker, CA, USA
02 May 2012 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2 & https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos & www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Heaven on Earth: I cannot say enough wonderful things about our short stay at Frallarenza! We were a group of 6 and stayed very comfortably in the big apartment. Lovely memories of sunshine at the end of the day sitting on the veranda. Our hosts Serena and Francesco were lovely people, skilled hosts and generous with their produce. Their farm is not only beautiful but quiet and serene. Surrounding areas offer many sights to see.I hope very much to return some day for a longer stay.
Laurie Burhoe, Bath, Maine, USA
22 Dicember 2011 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos & www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Comfortable, clean, well located, and great hosts: Agriturismo Frallarenza is a charming farmhouse about 20 minutes north of Orvieto run by the talented and generous couple, Francesco and Serena. Francesco speaks almost fluent English and although she's too humble to admit it, Serena speaks enough. The farm produces delicious olive oil and grows wine grapes. The olive oil and the wine made from the grapes grown on the farm are both available for purchase onsite as well as a huge selection of Serena's handmade crafts.
We came from Florence (about 1h 45min away) down the A1 autostrada. Exiting the A1 at Fabro and continuing south through Ficulle on SR71 there are two ways of getting to the farm. The recommended route involves less unpaved road: drive past the first turn-off for Cassia Antica (shortly after Ficulle) continuing south on SR71 until reaching the turn-off on the right for Strada Provinciale della Sala. Take Strada Provinciale della Sala through the town of Sala. A couple kilometers after Sala turn right onto Cassia Antica (there will be a brown sign for Frallarenza pointing down Cassia Antica). This leaves only a small stretch of unpaved road before reaching the farmhouse.
Frallarenza is well located for day trips to several of the surrounding hill towns and even bigger cities like Florence and Rome. Orvieto is very accessible and a secure pay parking lot and elevator which delivers you straight into the town make it extremely easy to pop in for lunch or dinner at one of Francesco's recommended restaurants (Mezza Luna had the best pasta I've ever tasted).
There is a very scenic drive that took almost 2 hours to get to Todi. But there is also a more direct route that enabled us to return in about 40 minutes. We also day tripped to Rome just as easily. This entailed driving 20 min to Orvieto's free train station parking lot then taking a 1.5 hr train to Roma Termini.
We stayed in the small apartment which was gorgeous and comfortable. We were there in December and never once felt cold. The bed was big and comfortable. The apartment was decorated with Serena's pottery and woven projects. The kitchen had everything needed for serious cooking, including their olive oil. They said they had stocked the fridge and pantry for the first days breakfast, but there was definitely enough to last longer than that. Serena had even prepared a little dish in the fridge for us to heat up for dinner that was delicious. They had also prepared a welcome breakfast tart which was traditional for the region.
Our favorite aspect of our stay were the classes provided. For the pottery class, we followed Serena and Francesco into Ficulle where we went to her workshop. There, we learned about the history of the local terra cotta pottery and the methods used to produce it. Serena is an extremely accomplished artist and gifted teacher. Francesco tagged along to help give more detailed explanations of what Serena wanted to show us. Because we were staying long enough and we took the class early enough, Serena was able to fire our projects and give them to us by the time we left.
When we met Francesco and Serena in their beautiful (and enormous) kitchen for a cooking class, they had printed out menus of what we would be cooking with the recipes for each dish. They were very patient with explaining the details of why each ingredient was added and the traditions of each dish. The food was incredibly good: fresh ingredients from the local market and their garden made all the difference. We had a wonderful dinner with the whole family. There were even some leftovers that they sent home with us.
My wife also devoted a day to weaving classes with Serena. Serena showed her how to use her traditional hand loom and demonstrated how she spun wool. Then my wife was able to weave a scarf of her own.
Francesco and Serena have an extremely energetic and playful Australian Shepard and cats that lounge around the premises.
The location of Frallarenza makes it very logical place to stay. The setting is beautiful and peaceful. The accommodations are clean, comfortable, and affordable. Most importantly, Francesco and Serena and the most gracious hosts we've had the pleasure of encountering. We learned so much while staying there, I can't wait to return with the rest of my family.
Harry, Sarasota, FL USA
13 November 2011 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
Frallarenza in Umbria, near Orvieto: Francesco and Serena have created a little paradise for travelers that looks like a working olive grove/vineyard/garden/ceramics and weaving studio/kitchen/haven! We visited in late October and wandered their hills, woods, and perennial gardens as well as visited Orvieto and little Allerona. Our hosts made it all feel like home. You owe yourself a retreat to their comfy, impeccable three-plus bedroom apartment. We made ourselves a supper with Francesco's new oil and we carried Serena's spectacular pottery home in our backpacks and carry-ons. What sweet memories! We sincerely hope to return--with friends next time. There's plenty of room for everyone, and a kitchen you would be proud to call your own. Grazie, amici!
The Zanger Family, Cincinnati, Ohio USA
04 October 2011 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2
Ole and Margaret: We spent two wonderful weeks at Frallarenza- it`s the kind of place one dreams about but maybe doesn`t expect to find. We did! Alovely place to stay with every comfort and so much taste without going over the top.
Margaret Alice McPhee , Germany
26 September 2011 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2 & https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
THE place to be: I stayed 1 week on my own in the small cottage at Frallarenza last september 2011. Just a great place, good accomodation, clean, quiet (I slept very well). Francesco and Serena are excellent hosts, almost like family.
I even had a cooking class with the other visitors in the bigger cottage.
It felt like home and I'm surely getting back!
Corry Devos, Belgium
09 September 2011 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2 & https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
Spectacular Vacation: Our stay at Frallarenza was spectacular. Accomodations were superb. The rooms were clean and comfortable. Our children enjoyed playing in the pool and the ping pong table. We spent time in Orvietto during the day and relaxed at Frallarenza at night. Francesco and Serena were excellent hosts. We took a cooking class and found it very enjoyable! We highly recommend Frallarenza!!
Elisabeth and Scott, Bloomfield Hills, MI, USA
08 August 2011 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2
Highly recommended: Our family of four (2 kids, age 6 and 9) stayed with Serena and Francesco for 10 nights in July 2011. They know what great hospitality is all about - a welcome tart, home-made jam, olive oil etc. Moreover we were supplied with some home grown vegetables and fruit during our stay. Its a very peaceful place (+ tidy and clean inside and outside) and we spend a lot of time in the pool and at the pool - both in the sun and in the shade of the tall trees. Still there is a lot to see within a 1 hour drive - and beatiful Orvieto is only 20 minutes away.
Soren N. Winther, Denmark
12 July 2011 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2 & https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
La Frallarenza: Our stay at La Frallarenza Agriturismo could best be described as terrific. The farm is a hillside setting of vineyards and olive groves, nourished with great care and obvious pride by Francesco and Serena de Ninno. The building that had our “apartment” on the top floor was hard to date—seemingly old but with every modern amenity. A second, smaller apartment was beneath ours, and our hosts lived on the ground floor—but because of the slope, each had ground level porches and patios. Situated just a few kilometers from Allerona, the farm seemed quiet and rural nonetheless. We enjoyed the sparkling pool, the bocci games, outdoor ping- pong and the shady spots to sip wine or read.
Although there is no restaurant on the premises, Serena is an accomplished chef. A delicious pasta dish, breakfast pastry and a huge bowl of cherries from the farm were part of our welcome. We intended to enjoy the many restaurants in Orvieto and other nearby towns (which we did to some extent) but the temptation to grill under the olive tress overtook us twice. It was lovely!
Our stay at La Frallarenza ranks as one of our all time great vacation. The agriturismo is perfectly located, graciously hosted and the ideal spot for our family of seven (a couple in our sixties with three adult children, one son-in-law and a baby grandson) to get to know Italy and reconnect with each other.
Greg & Nancy Fritz, USA
06 July 2011 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.2
Our wonderful visit: We so enjoyed our visit to Frallarenza. The atmosphere was tranquil, the surroundings beautiful. We will going again.
Judy Vernon, UK
02 July 2011 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
Frallarenza: Frallarenza Agriturismo in Umbria Our ten day stay with Serena, Francesco, and Giorgio was undoubtedly the high light of a 21 day visit to Italy. It is situated perfectly between the hill towns outside Ficulle near Orvieto. Accommodations are so comfortable and clean and no better hosts could be had. We highly recommend.
Charlie Pulley, Pinehurst, NC, USA
13 June 2011 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3 & www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza & https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
The ideal Tuscan getaway: My husband and I also stayed at Agriturismo Frallarenza for a couple days near Allerona during the last week of May 2011. We found it to be heaven in Tuscany, and a perfect resting place after traveling up and down in Italy. I felt like this was the highlight of our Italian vacation from Rome, Florence, Naples and Umbria was our favorite place to stay. We found new friends with Francisco and Serena, the most kind and accomodating stay we have ever experienced - they were helpful in recommendations and helping us get around town.
We stayed in the smaller apartment which was beautifully decorated with Serena's crafts of pottery, which are also available to purchase - the hooks, the plates, almost everything you see has her unique pottery. It's
absolutely gorgeous and I took a plate and bowl home to remember her. Francisco and Serena also stocked the kitchen with a couple of goodies - eggs, water, beer (Birra - the Italian kind), juice and milk, and assortment of cookies and breads in the pantry along with their homemade jams. Plus, the espresso machine that is so handy to use everyday. Serena made dinner for our first - homemade lasagna and tarts for breakfast and lovely profiteroles to enjoy as snacks. You will never go hungry if Serena is cooking for you. They have a friendly and lovable dog named Gigi, she loves a good belly rub. I took the cooking class with Serena and Francisco and enjoyed homemade gnocchi, salted cake, torta de fragole and wine. They also provide the recipes so if you want to make the food at home.
They are incredible hosts, and Frallerenza is the ideal location for a Tuscan getaway. There is a beautiful pool, beautiful garden of flowers everywhere, outdoor activities to use, and wi-fi internet available, too.
There is a nearby train station at Allerona (but does not sell tickets there - go to a nearby tabacchi store to purchase train tickets), and travel to Siena. We found Siena to be the perfect day trip. We also went wine tasting at the castle that is seen in the picture on the website. Overall, the price for this agriturismo was well priced and well-worth it's value in gold and wine!
Krystal R , Anaheim, CA USA
13 June 2011 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3
A Wonderful place: We stayed in the “Large Apartment” here for a week in late May and found it to be absolutely ideal for us. The apartment is very tastefully decorated (Serena makes beautiful pottery!), comfortable, and easily accommodated us 6 adults + baby (a crib was thoughtfully provided). The location is incredibly peaceful- tucked in the hills of olives and grapes- and yet close enough to Orvieto to make it easy for trips into town. (Orvieto is about a 20 min drive and has some excellent restaurants and is worth a day of exploring). Frallarenza has everything to make for a relaxing stay- a beautiful pool, outdoor ping-pong, bocce, barbeque and picnic tables. And if you can motivate to get off the lounge chairs, it is ideally located for day trips to the surrounding
area (it is possible to take the train from Orvieto to Rome, Florence, or Siena and there are numerous little hill towns within driving distance). Francesco and Serena were welcoming and there were thoughtful touches to our stay, such as a dinner on our arrival and a breakfast tart for our first breakfast. I can think of nothing that would have made our stay any better, except of course more time there. (Worth-noting: I think their website pictures do not do it justice, it is more beautiful and the apartment much larger, than their pictures show.)
Cara and Brendan, USA
12 June 2011 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
umbria Agriturismo Frallarenza- a perfect stay: We stayed at Agriturismo Frallarenza near Orvieto for a week in late May and found it to be absolutely ideal for us. The apartment is very tastefully decorated (Serena makes beautiful pottery!), comfortable, and easily accommodated us 6 adults + baby (a crib was thoughtfully provided). The location is incredibly peaceful- tucked in the hills of olives and grapes- and yet close enough to Orvieto to make it easy for trips into town. (Orvieto is about a 20 min drive and has some excellent restaurants and is worth a day of exploring). Frallarenza has everything to make for a relaxing stay- a beautiful pool, outdoor ping-pong, bocce, barbeque and picnic tables. And if you can motivate to get off the lounge chairs, it is ideally located
for day trips to the surrounding area (it is possible to take the train from Orvieto to Rome, Florence, or Siena and there are numerous little hill towns within driving distance). Francesco and Serena were welcoming and there were thoughtful touches to our stay, such as a dinner on our arrival and a breakfast tart for our first breakfast. I can think of nothing that would have made our stay any better, except of course more time there. (Worth-noting: I think their website pictures do not do it justice, it is more beautiful and the apartment much larger, than their pictures show.)
Cara, Albany, OR USA
02 March 2011 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Best Hosts and Perfect Accommodations: Having stayed here previously I knew exactly what to expect during my stay - perfection. The cottages are so wonderful. I've stayed in both the large and the small cottage and both are so spacious, so clean, and so well designed/decorated. It's so quiet on the lovely hillside it's easy to relax and to get a great nights sleep.
Francesco and Serena are the most wonderful hosts. Both are obviously very concerned with quality which shows in the immaculate upkeep of the cottages. And I don't think you'll find better lasagna in Italy than what Serena makes (and that includes the meat or veggie versions!).
For excellent accommodations near so many wonderful hill-towns and just a short train ride from Rome you just can't beat Frallarenza. I will always stay with Francesco and Serena any time I am in Umbria!
ES, Dallas, TX USA
30 August 2010 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3 e www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Great stay, the owners exquisite people: We stayed at this farm with the children five days and wished we could stay there more ... their site as well not make up as the apartment (we stayed in the big one) is beautiful, nice, warm and comfortable. The creations of the owner, Serena, who produces beautiful glazed pottery and textiles, decorate the house even more dominated by the color of the wood and terracotta floors. The house is equipped with everything necessary for a stay, the dishes are his creations and are very beautiful.
One of the things that struck us was to find just got a basket of freshly picked tomatoes and a delicious freshly made pie on the table, there were water and milk in the fridge, fresh coffee, cheese, lemon, and beer! In the pantry, sugar, oil, salt, vinegar, cookies, biscuits, jams and honey, their excellent, also the espresso machine, toaster, and much more. The gesture was appreciated more than ever to find us in the fridge ready for a good zucchini pie for dinner, having three young children was even more pleasing.
The beds are comfortable, the two big bathrooms and embellished by the beautiful colors of blue tiles. The welcome was very warm and Francis and Serena are two really nice, discreet, helpful and prepared.
The thing that we had never found before and that was very important for children, were the many toys and games for them, and not just children's books, maps, and the place of Italy, the leaflets of the various cities and sights, activities, exhibitions, festivals, in other words, there was everything, even a large atlas of Italy and several maps of the place, so much variety ever found before in a rented apartment. The pool is surrounded by greenery, in a forest and the atmosphere and the peace of the place are really beautiful. There is also a great ping-pong table in excellent condition.
The place is very green and quiet. In Orvieto you can get there in about twenty minutes, the town is just minutes from Allerona that there has everything, a supermarket, pharmacy, post office, pizzeria, bar .. I highly recommend it for families with and without children who want to immerse themselves in the countryside, in the peace of those beautiful places of southern Umbria greeted by their owners so special and creative. I highly recommend.
Manuela, Italy
(Google Translation)
Splendido soggiorno, proprietari persone squisite: Siamo stati in questo agriturismo con i bambini cinque giorni e avremmo voluto starci di più...Il loro sito per quanto molto bello non rende al massimo quanto l'appartamento (abbiamo soggiornato in quello grande) sia bello, curato, caldo e confortevole. Le creazioni della proprietaria, Serena, che produce bellissimi oggetti in terracotta smaltata e tessuti,abbelliscono ancora di più la casa dove dominano il colore del legno e il cotto dei pavimenti. La casa è fornita di tutto quanto necessario per un soggiorno, i piatti sono sue creazioni e sono molto belli.
Una delle cose che più ci ha colpito è stato quello di trovare appena arrivati un cesto di pomodori appena raccolti e una buonissima crostata appena fatta sul tavolo, nel frigorifero c'erano acqua e latte freschi, caffè, formaggio, limoni, e birra!! Nella dispensa, zucchero, olio, sale, aceto, biscotti, fette biscottate, le loro ottime confetture e miele, inoltre la macchina per il caffè espresso, tostapane, e tante altre cose. Il gesto più apprezzato è stato farci trovare sempre in frigorifero un ottimo sformato di zucchine pronto per cena, avendo tre bambini piccoli è stato ancora più gradito.
I letti sono comodissimi, i due bagni grandi e impreziositi dai bellissimi colori blu delle maioliche. L'accoglienza è stata
molto calda e Francesco e Serena sono due persone davvero gentili, discrete, disponibili e preparate.
La cosa che non avevamo mai trovato prima e che è stata molto importante per i bambini, sono stati i tanti giocattoli e giochi di società per loro, libri per bimbi e non solo, le mappe del luogo e dell'Italia, i leaflet delle varie città e luoghi da visitare, iniziative, mostre, sagre, insomma, c'era di tutto, anche un grande atlante dell'Italia e diverse cartine del posto, tanta varietà mai trovata prima in un appartamento affittato. La piscina è in mezzo al verde, in un bosco e l'atmosfera e la pace del luogo sono davvero suggestivi. C'è anche un grande tavolo da ping-pong in ottime condizioni.
Il luogo è verdissimo e silenzioso. Ad Orvieto ci si arriva in una ventina di minuti, il centro abitato Allerona che dista pochi minuti da lì è dotato di tutto, di un supermercato, farmacia, poste, pizzeria, bar...
Lo consiglio vivamente a famiglie con e senza bimbi che vogliono immergersi nel verde, nella pace di quei luoghi bellissimi della bassa Umbria accolti dai loro proprietari così particolari e creativi.
Manuela, Italia
03 August 2010 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3
A great stay: This is simply a dream place. It's exactly what we had hoped for when we booked it -- the apartments are very comfortable and big; the owners are as nice as can be; the grounds are beautiful; the pool is great; and the surrounding area is lovely and interesting. The only complaint is we didn't stay long enough.
Kurt A., San Francisco, CA USA
21 July 2010 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos
La Frallarenza: La Frallarenza near Orvieto in southern Umbria is a real gem. There are only two apartments, so it's a very intimate experience; the owners are incredibly sweet people and the place has all you might want -- well-appointed apartments, a warm swimming pool, cooking classes and peace and quiet. We had a blast staying here and exploring the amazing surroundings. The five days we stayed were nowhere near long enough.
Kurt A., San Francisco, CA USA
16 June 2010 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Fantastic Agri near Orvieto: The two of us stayed at Frallarenza for four nites this June. We had the "small apt", but it was not small; it was a spacious and beautiful self-contained apt. The expansive grounds were immaculately groomed; with a beautiful pool that we did not have a chance to use. They only have two apts to rent, so this place always remains quiet and peaceful. They were about 5 miles to Orvieto, so we dined there each nite using Francesco's recommendations. (Don't miss restaurant La Palombo...get reservations! Fantastic food and very inexpensive).
For only $75EU/nite we felt we got a bargain. Even though this was not a B&B, they stocked our room (for our first morning) with eggs, juice, milk, bread and butter, and a home made fruit tort. Coffee and tea was provided for the entire rental period. We had free wi-fi, the bed was great, the shower had copious amounts of hot water, and the owners were more than happy to help us with any and all recommendations or local advice.
One caveat. Don't navigate to Frallarenza from the South. Our GPS took us in that way at night and we had about 4-5 miles of gravel roads. If you come in from the North, you might have 200 yards of gravel roads. a much better approach!
Swick, portland, Ore USA
8 March 2010 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3
Christmas and New Year 2009/2010: the structure is really beautiful .. totally immersed in the Umbrian countryside .. managers are qualified and available .. well worth a visit ..
Cristina P, Italy
(Google Translation)
natale e capodanno 2009/2010: la struttura è davvero stupenda.. totalmente immersa nel verde della campagna umbra.. i gestori sono persone qualificate e disponibili..merita davvero di essere visitata..
Cristina P, Italia
5 March 2010 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos e www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Agriturismo Frallarenza-home Away From home: I was looking to plan a two week stay in Umbria in order to explore small hilltowns. My main interest was to find a more "central" location to stay at the entire two weeks so we would be able to feel more like we were living in Italy, at least for a brief time. After reading all the wonderful postings on this site regarding Agriturismo Frallarenza, I determined this would be the perfect place to feel like home away from home. There is no way to describe how fortunate we were to have chosen Agriturismo Frallarenza for our two week vacation! Francesco and Serena are the most amazing hosts; helpful not only via email prior to our trip, but wonderfully welcoming once we arrived in Ficulle (area outside of Orvieto
where the agriturismo is located). The cottage was clean and inviting, with all kinds of unique and beautiful touches, like hand-made pottery dishes by Serena. The beds were comfortable, with hypo-allergenic pillows (a big plus for me due to allergies to feathers). The rooms were large and airy, with more hand-made touches. Francesco provided us with several recommendations for great small hilltown areas, which turned out to be some of our favorite destinations (Sorano, Sovano, Pitigliano area for one). Serena provided us with some of the most mouth-watering home-cooked food. There just is no negative to staying here, and I will absolutely be returning. I can't imagine staying anywhere else in central Italy, since travel, to me, is more than just sight-seeing.
If you have the opportunity to feel like you're part of the community, even for a short time, the trip takes on a whole new level of enjoyment. You absolutely could not go wrong staying with Francesco and Serena at Agriturismo Frallarenza!
ES, Dallas, Tx USA
9 November 2009 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2009
Agritourismo Frallarenza: One of the best experiences in our trip to Italy was a 2 night stay at Agritourismo Frallarenza near Orvieto. Francesco, Serena and their son Giorgio were wonderful hosts from start to stop. We arrived on a Sunday and one of our group was feeling under the weather. Francesco and Serena offered their food so that we wouldn't have to go out again. The next afternoon we had a cooking class with them in their wonderful kitchen/dining area. Nothing fancy, but wonderful recipes that had been handed down in their family. We all gathered that evening to enjoy all of the dishes that had been prepared and the conversation that flowed throughout our dinner. What a wonderful experience. Thank you Francesco and Serena!
Suzanne Diess, Seattle, Wa USA
16 September 2009 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3 e https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2009
stay Sept.'09: We've spent 10 days at this lovely place with my wife and her brother. Apartment was nice and spacious, swimming pool with very clean water but what we liked the most was Serena and Francesco hospitality (we'll remember home made tiramisu for a long time). Another attraction is close to Orvieto City, really good place to live.
We can fully reccomend this place and believe will back someday...
Mariusz, Poland
17 July 2009 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3
Go to Frallarenza: After staying at Frallarenza for eight days we were sure about going back there next year. When you want a beautiful appartment to stay, friendly and hospitible hosts then you should go there. When you arrive you 'll find not only a very nice and carefully decorated( clean ) place but also fresh fruit, eggs, home-made pastry and in the afternoon they brought us a dish of delicious pasta to eat at night. We felt very welcome thanks to Serena and Francesco.
Not only the house is nice but there is a beautiful garden with a swimmingpool with sun and shade and it is quiet and peaceful. It is also a good place to start tours around Umbria. There are beautiful old cities and lakes nearby.Because the austrada is nearby it is also possible to reach Rome or Florence.
We enjoyed our stay and for us it is a place to remember and to go back to once more.
Mimi and Jan, Netherlands
13 July 2009 www.tripadvisor.com/frallarenza
Heaven meets earth at Frallarenza: If you seek the most beautiful place on the planet, the friendliest people who not just run it but also treat each guest like family, a place that's close to the action of the big cities and sights like Orvieto (15 minutes), Rome (90 min) or Siena (60 minutes), look no further. Francesco, Serena and Giorgio always welcome their guests. Not fancy, just down-to-earth.
A place to relax and unwind, to be yourself, and discover the REAL ITALIA!!
Sunjoo Advani, Breda Netherlands
16 June 2009 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3
Wonderful place! We can only underline what has been written so far. This is a beautiful place, run by two lovely people, a place where one can relax and enjoy the beautyness of the landscape. We stayed there one week with our 5-months-old baby and we enjoyed our stay very much. Thanks to Serena and Francesco! We hope to return.
Kathrin and Michael from Duesseldorf.
Kathrin & Michael, Germany
30 May 2009 www.toprural.it/frallarenza/commenti/olandase
Prime location: For years we rent a rural location, where our need for culture, peace and Italian food/wine is satisfied. Frallarenza, where we stayed three weeks, meets them 100%. The accommodation is beautifully and tastefully decorated. Owner Francesco and his wife Serena are fantastic welcoming, we quickly felt really at home. In the part of the house we rented (2 persons) had thought of everything, finally not suffer from buzzing mosquitoes, the mosquito stylishly fitted for windows. Upon receipt there was fruit, cherries and strawberries with cream ready for us. (had called that we had delay due to traffic). Also, we were welcomed by Luna , a beautiful sweet dog. Lots of green space around the house, a lovely
nice pool with sun loungers and earthenware pots with flowering plants everywhere (Serena is a ceramist) Got tips on how to make pasta and olive oil came from their own oil. Truly a prime location, especially cat lovers (6 pieces).
Alfred, Netherlands
(Google Translation)
Toplocatie: Al jaren huren wij een landelijke locatie, waarbij onze behoefte aan cultuur, rust en italiaans eten/wijnen bevredigd wordt. Frallarenza, waar wij 3 weken verbleven, voldoet hieraan voor 100%. De accomodatie ligt prachtig en is smaakvol ingericht. Eigenaar Francesco en zijn vrouw Serena zijn fantastisch gastvrij, wij voelden ons snel echt thuis. In het gedeelte van het huis dat wij huurden (2 personen) was aan alles gedacht, eindelijk eens geen last van zoemende muggen, door de stijlvol aangebrachte horren voor de ramen. Bij ontvangst stond er fruit, kersen en aardbeien met slagroom, voor ons klaar.(hadden gebeld dat wij door files vertraging hadden).Ook werden wij welkom geheten door Luna, een prachtige, lieve hond. Veel groene ruimte om het huis, een heerlijk
zwembad met lekkere ligstoelen en overal aardewerkpotten met bloeiende planten (Serena is keramiste) Kregen tips hoe pasta te maken en de olijolie kwam van eigen persing. Echt een toplocatie, vooral kattenliefhebbers (6 stuks).
Alfred, Netherlands
13 May 2009 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3
A corner of paradise: A charming farmhouse nestled in the Umbrian hills, away from any hustle and bustle, and which seem popular with small and amenities (toaster, coffee machine bar ..) 's small apartment is charming, comfortable and very spacious. The owners very kind and friendly .. passed with flying colors!
Benedetta e Carmine, Italy
(Google Translation)
un angolo di paradiso: un incantevole agriturismo immerso tra le colline umbre, lontano da qualunque frenesia cittadina e dotato di piccoli e quanto mai apprezzati comfort (tostapane, macchinetta del caffè da bar..) L' appartamento piccolo è delizioso, comodo e spaziosissimo. I propietari gentilissimi e accoglienti.. promosso a pieni voti!
Benedetta e Carmine, Italia
6 May 2009 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2009
Agriturismo Frallarenza: If you're looking for an Umbrian experience of a lifetime, don't miss Agriturismo Frallarenza! Francesco and Serena are two of the most gracious hosts you could ever hope to meet!
1. Location: Agriturismo Frallarenza is located in Umbria, near the beautiful hill town of Orvieto (about 8 easy miles).
2. Accommodations: We had a rustic, but exquisitely charming, spacious, and very clean three-bedroom, two-bath apartment that, with the additional loft space, would easily accommodate a group even larger than ours (5 adult family members). Our apartment had a fully equipped kitchen as well, with everything we needed to prepare all our meals on those days when we were too tuckered out to go any further than our delightful veranda.
3. Host family: We were warmly received by Francesco and Serena. They treated us like family and made us feel right at home. Francesco was very helpful with maps, tips on the best routes to take, sending those essential e-mails to let family members know we were OK, and helping us with suggestions on things to see and do. As soon as we arrived we had biscuits, bread, milk and eggs in our apartment... the basics that we needed to help us settle in. Best of all, a homemade breakfast tart was waiting for us. (We didn't wait until breakfast... It was delicious!)
4. Cooking Class at Frallarenza: Serena is a magician in the kitchen, and Francesco is likewise! This cooking class is a must! Don't miss it! They gave all of us a culinary lesson that we will never forget. Serena is the "Gnocchi Queen"! All was done from scratch and so incredibly good. Our magnificent dinner included an assortment of homemade Italian dishes, wine from local vineyards (including grapes grown at Frallarenza), and all was topped off by Serena's heavenly tiramisu... Worth every Euro!
5. Value and Satisfaction: At Frallarenza you won't be "nickel-'n-Euro-ed" to death. There were no "hidden costs" or add-on surprises. If you read the fine print for other agriturismos, you'll see that this is definitely an added advantage. Frallarenza was a wonderful Italian travel experience, but don't just take our word for it. We hope you'll be able to confirm it all for yourself... Soon! Ciao!
Michael and Linda Brown, Lincoln, CA USA
5 February 2009 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3 e 28 January 2009 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2009
Agriturismo Frallarenza, near Orvieto, Umbria: We had a lovely 5 night stay at Frallarenza in December 2008, and would highly recommend this accommodation to anyone desiring a tranquil location near Orvieto. Francesco and Serena have created, with their own skill, hard work and artistic and ecological attention to detail, a beautiful and comfortable house and two guest apartments surrounded by an olive orchard and vineyard. We stayed with our two children in the smaller apartment, which was immaculate and invitingly furnished with Serena's pottery and fibre-art handiwork. Serena's delicious zucchini pasta and breakfast tart (and their newly pressed olive oil) were awaiting us upon arrival, and the kitchen was furnished with all necessities, including ingredients for our first
breakfast. What made our stay especially special was the helpfulness of our hosts, and our "cooking lesson" night with them and their son Giorgio, during which we discovered like concerns and shared ideas with Francesco for a more environmentally-progressive future. Grazie a Serena also for a fun pottery lesson and the lovely pieces we purchased from you; and grazie a Giorgio from our kids for the fun ping pong recreation! We wish them all the best in their endeavours.
Gillian & Steve, Kingston, Ont Canada
15 November 2008 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2008
Agriturismo Frallarenza: Our stay at Agriturismo Frallarenza near Orvieto, Italy was wonderful. Serena, Francesco and their son, Giorgio made us feel very welcome. The apartment was spotless, quiet, and very comfortable. Their special treats in the refrigerator when we arrived were delicious and perfect for a relaxing eveining after driving all day. Francesco's advise on places to visit was also very helpful and their crafts are beautiful. I recommend Agriturismo Frallarenza to everyone.
Donna, Seattle, WA, USA
20 October 2008 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2008
Agriturismo Frallarenza: My husband and I are just back form 3 weeks in Italy and we stayed at Frallarenza for 2 nights....we wished it was longer!! What a peaceful oasis...we were very warmly received by Francesco and Serena and made to feel at home right away. Francesco was very helpful with maps and things to see, and Serena had made us a baked zucchini pasta and a tiramisu...what a wonderful welcome surprise after a day of travelling. There was also a breakfast tart and a very well stocked kitchen , with bread, biscuits, milk and eggs....so very generous and helps you settle in straight away because all the essentials are there. The smaller cottage we stayed in was decorated beautifully..thank you Serena for the vase of fresh flowers...it was a warm, cosy country cottage
experience, perfect for relaxing. Easy drive to Orvieto. We would very happily return and will stay longer next time. A truly wonderful place to stay where a lovely Italian family share what they have with you.
Sharon Williams, Melbourne, Vic Australia
12 October 2008 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2008
Agriturismo Frallarenza: If you are looking for peace and quite in the Umbrian countryside not far from Orvieto, this is the place. My wife and I were warmly received by our hosts Francesco and Serena with a cassarole dish and breakfast tart that was very much appreciated after our long drive and was very tasty. I also highly recommend Francesco's red wine, very good with pasta and only 5 euros a bottle. Serena makes her own pottery and scarves of which my wife came home with. Of particular convenience was have a washing machine and wifi at our disposal. There are several cats on the farm that make themselves available for petting, and Luna their beautiful german shepard, is always grateful to snap from your hand, an offering from the fig tree. This place was a real pleasure
and our hosts were incredible.
Glenn, Sacramento, CA USA
4 October 2008 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2008
Agriturismo Frallarenza-Orvieto: The most wonderful experience of a month of touring Italy! A must for those that like great hospitality, delicious food, homelike experience and meeting a lovely Italian family. There are two apartments available and they are decorated with loving care and artistic talents of Sarena and Francesco. A central location for exploring Umbria and Tuscany regions of Italy. You will arrive to delightful Italian dishes and a kitchen well stocked for food preparation. Sarena is a talented cook, weaver, and pottery maker. Francesco is a hard working farmer with olive groves and grape vineyards. Don't forget to purchase a bottle of his delightful wine! You will not want to leave as they make you feel so welcome and treat you like family. I hope to return
to Frallarenza in the near future and highly recommend this Agriturismo to everyone wanting a true "Italian Experience".
Nancy Meyer, Medford, OR USA
27 August 2008 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3
our beautifull week in Umbrie: We have stayed 1 week in the beautifull house of Serena and Francesco. This stay has been the best of all our stays in Italy and we hope we will go back soon. The Umbrian region is amazing, Orvieto is one of the most beautifull little cities we have ever seen. This together with the hospitality of Serena and Francesco has given us a week to remember.
Luc Lauwers, Belgium
27 August 2008 www.toprural.it/frallarenza/commenti/spagnolo
Simply extraordinary: For a week we have been enjoying the hospitality of this family. We were 7 people and a baby of 9 months. The house is very well in all ways, dining rooms, kitchen, pool of luxury. The situation, near Orvieto, Siena 1 hour, a little more Assisi, Florence and Rome. In the heart of Italy: landscape, pretty villages and very friendly people. It is highly recommended for all that, we have been excited and children 3 and the baby, too.
Jose Luis, Spain
(Google Translation)
Sencillamente extraordinario: Durante una semana hemos estado disfrutando de la hospitalidad de esta familia. Eramos 7 personas y un bebé de 9 meses. La casa está muy bien en todos los
sentidos, habitaciones, comedor, cocina, piscina de superlujo. La situación, muy cerca de Orvieto, a 1 hora de Siena, Asís y un poco más de Florencia y Roma. En el corazón de Italia: paisaje, pueblos preciosos y gente muy amable. Es altamente recomendable por todo ello, hemos venido entusiasmados y los niños, 3 y el bebé, tambien.
Jose Luis, Spagna
18 July 2008 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2008
Umbria/Tuscany, Agritourismo Frallarenza: Our family of 10 which included our three grandchildren(11,8 & 5)enjoyed a wonderful week with Serena, Francesco at their lovely olive farm. We arrived at different times and Serena made sure that the delicious fresh zucchini lasagna, that she made for us, was still warm when the last of us arrived at 9:30 PM. The apricot tart was a very unexpected treat as well, as were the fresh eggs & milk for our breakfast. The architecture of the house was designed by them so that each apartment looked like a country villa all by itself, as it was built in a semi-circle on a hill. A super idea! We used both apartments and they were charmingly decorated with Serena's lovely handmade pottery, ceramic items too numerous to mention, as well
as crocheted lamp shades. Her colors fit perfectly with the Umbria/Tuscany feel of the countryside. Francesco was very helpful and giving of his knowledge of the land, his farm, directions and things to do and see. He made us eager to see the towns around us and gave us directions for the easy train ride in and out of Rome. Our time at their farm was peaceful in such a serene surounding and the children were able to recoup from their sightseeing by using the pool and the ping-pong table, and just checking out the area. We were also able to use a laptop computer, which surprised me. This villa was rated ***** stars by all of us and the family we stayed with were extremely warm and inviting. This was a vacation that will be remembered by all of us.
Joan DesRoches, Midland Park, NJ USA
9 July 2008 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2008
Agritourismo near Orvieto- Agritourismo Frallarenza: My family of four just returned from a magical first tour of Ialy. Our stay at Agritourismo Frallarenza was one of the highlights. Hosts Francesco and Serena made us feel so welcome and at home. They have done a wonderful job of remodeling their farmhouse; our apartment was spacious, cool, and comfortable. We enjoyed meals on the porch, Serena's homemade lasagna and tort, and table tennis with Francesco and Giorgio. We hope to return one day and enjoy a longer stay!
Laura Kirkland, WA USA
5 July 2008 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2008
Agriturismo Frallarenza, Orvieto, Umbria: Frallarenza is a small and charming farm and agriturismo run by Francesco and Serena, who produce olive oil, perfect organic veggies, and lovely pottery creations (courtesy of Serena) which decorate both rental apartments. We stayed in the larger of the apartments (five adults, 2 pre-teenagers) and found both comfort and space to spare. Sitting on the kitchen counter when we arrived was a huge homemade fruit tart; ingredients for breakfast were in the fridge; and a warm greeting awaited us from the owners. We had Frallarenza to ourselves during our stay and thoroughly enjoyed the sounds and smells and sights of the countryside. We cooked "in" most of the time because of the abundance of fresh pasta and vegetables in the area--
and our dinners were both inexpensive and delicious. Frallarenza is actually located in the small town of Ficulle, about 12 miles north of Orvieto, and made an excellent base for visiting Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio (the "dying city"), Assisi, Perugia, the free thermal springs at Saturnia (my favorite), and for horseback riding near the shores of Lake Bolsena. Proof positive of a happy stay at Frallarenza: if, as we did, you can get 7 members of the same family, all of different ages, to agree that Francesco's and Serena's hospitality was the best, you must stay at this small agriturismo for sure!
Linda Carraway, Tampa, FL USA
2 July 2008 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3
We wanted to stay longer: Frallarenza is a lovely place, made cozy and personal by its owners, Serena and Francesco. We stayed in the larger apartment ( 5 adults and 2 children ) and found space and comfort to spare. Francesco did much of the construction himself and the wonderful decorative touches, such as the ceramic lampshades, dinner ware, towel hooks, etc. were made by Serena. Upon arrival, we found a yummy fruit tart in the kitchen as well as supplies for breakfast the next morning. We would happily return to this small farm in the Umbrian hills to re-experience its charm and the kindness of our hosts.
the Carraway family, USA
7 May 2008 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3
a very pleasant weekend: I highly recommend this to all 'farm, the grounds are the beauty of the landscape, among olive trees and vines, the' quality of 'apartment, great area for children and not at all intrusive and discreet welcome of the owners.
Francesco, Italy
(Google Translation)
un week end molto piacevole: Consiglio vivamente a tutti quest'agriturismo, i motivi sono la bellezza del paesaggio, in mezzo a ulivi e viti, l' ottima qualità dell' appartamento, il grande spazio per i bambini e l'accoglienza discreta e per niente invadente dei proprietari.
Francesco, Italia
29 January 2008 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3 e https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2008
Wonderful stay at Frallarenza: My husband and I stayed a week at the lovely Agriturismo Frallarenza as a part of our Italian honeymoon and consider our visit there to be one of the major highlights of an incredible trip. We stayed in the small apartment, which actually felt rather spacious for two people and included a nice kitchen to prepare meals and enjoy the bounty of Italian food and wine that we sampled.
The proprietors, Francesco and Serena, were wonderfully generous with their time and always willing to give us tips on where to go in the surrounding areas. Serena is a gifted artist, whose ceramics (cups, bowls, tiles, even the sink!) grace both apartments and are available for sale. Also, we were lucky to be staying at the farm during the annual olive harvest and got the chance to pick olives with the family. My husband and I highly recommend Agriturismo Frallarenza and hope to return there ourselves one day.
Stephen and Joey Kearney Laurent, Oakland, CA USA
6 November 2007 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2007
Agriturismo Frallarenza, near Orvieto: My husband,myself and friends from Germany recently spent several wonderful days at Agriturismo Frallarenza. We stayed in the Big Apartment,, as they called it where Serena met us with a smile and baked goodies. The apartment was very inviting and comfortable, decorated with Serena's special touch. Francesco was always helpful when it came time to plan each day's trip and Serena recommended a restaurant which turned out to be our favorite in all of Italy. We went back 3 nights in a row! The agriturismo is centrally located to most of the hilltowns which was great! We were able to take in all of the hilltowns I wanted to see. Feel free to e-mail with any questions.
Their website is agriturismo.it/Frallarenza/enindex.asp
Becky, Indiana USA
13 October 2007 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.3 and https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2007
Frallarenza near Orvieto: My wife and I spent 3 fantastic weeks In Italy from the Southern end to Tuscany country. We stayed at 4 different agriturismo (Renovated farms) during our long stay. Each and every one was a different experience. Our only regret was that we didn't stay longer at this special one. Although of the 4 all welcomed us, Serena and Francesco welcomed us like no others. We were invited into their home for a cooking lesson (No cost), and also the best dinner we had in our stay in Italy. We were also invited for a ceramic lesson given by Serena and a Master (again free).
We always felt welcome if we needed anything, or simple directions for our day trips.
Our apartment was also the best of the 4 we stayed at, and very reasonable too. Serena decorated it with all of her special touches, making you feel like you were back home. The only regret was that we didn't make this the longest stay of all. We will be going back in the next 12 to 24 months, and will make this our number one stay. Orvieto is only minutes away (15 km or 10 miles), and really worth seeing. If you're going to Italy, make this a sure thing on your Visit. The family gave us that home feeling, and not like we were in a Hotel. I could go on and on about this stay, but experience this for yourself.
Bob Christian, Mount Prospect, Illinois USA
17 September 2007 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.4
momenti di relax! The Frallarenza is such a beautiful place! Serena and Francesco have done everything to make holidays there relaxing and comfortable. We stayed in the smaller flat with evening sun at the terrace, and from the moment of our arrival we felt almost at home. The flat and the garden are beautifully done, Serena and Francesco are really friendly and warm. We can really recommend this place and hope to return there one day!
Beate und Christian, Germany
17 September 2007 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.4
Beautiful! We have been a week by Francesco and Serena in August 2007. The farm is beautiful, the apartment very comfortable and functional. The hospitality and friendliness of Francis and Serena have made this summer unforgettable. beautiful evenings spent listening to the song of cicadas and crickets .... that longing!
Eleonora Colosio, Italy
(Google Translation)
bellissimo!: Siamo stati da Francesco e Serena una settimana ad Agosto 2007. L'agriturismo è splendido, l'appartamento molto accogliente e funzionale. L'ospitalità e la simpatia di Francesco e Serena hanno reso questa vacanza indimenticabile. bellissime le serate trascorse ad ascoltare il canto delle cicale e dei grilli.... che nostalgia!
Eleonora Colosio, Italia
6 September 2007 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.4
We found the ideal place for summer holidays: We stayed at bigger apartment in August of 2005, 2006 and 2007 together with another family, and found that here was the ideal place for a family, composed by children, to enjoy a real Italian agriturismo. On the date of arrival, Serena's torte and a full of tomato always welcomed us. We learnt Italian cooking and made ceramic dishes from Serena and Francesco.That was wonderful experience.
Hiro, Japan, resident in Italy
11 August 2007 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.4
5 stars are not enough! The warmest of welcomes from a delightful family - a beautifully decorated appartment with Serena's own ceramic fittings, Francesco's own organic olive oil, plus pool, vegetable garden and the natural, architectural and archeological wonders of the Umbrian region. WE'LL BE BACK!
Mireille and Philip Gray, Martigues France
24 July 2007 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2007
Agriturismo near Orvieto: We recently spent one week at a wonderful agriturismo near Orvieto. This farmhouse is located in quite peaceful area on the tuscany-Umbria border. We loved the fresh figs and tomatoes from the garden and the lovely tart that was waiting for us when we arrived. The pool was perfect after a morning of site seeing especially for our 2 teenagers. Serena and Francesco are great hosts and made our stay very relaxing. Check out their website at www.frallarenza.it
Cheryl, Castlegar, BC Canada
25 June 2007 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.4
Really friendly: We were guests at Frallarenza the weekend just past. What else to add positive comments to read? The place is lovely, the apartment nice and clean (we were in the large), the pool is OK, Francis and Serena, the owners, are people willing and discreet. The kids had a blast. We will come back definitely.
Fulvio Fagotti, Italy
(Google Translation)
Veramente accogliente: Siamo stati ospiti a Frallarenza il fine settimana appena trascorso. Cosa altro aggiungere ai commenti positivi già letti? Il posto è carino, l'appartamento curato e pulito(siamo stati nel grande), la piscina è OK, Francesco e Serena, i proprietari, sono persone disponibili e discrete. I bambini si sono divertiti un mondo. Torneremo senz'altro.
Fulvio Fagotti, Italia
17 June 2007 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.4
The best place to stay in Italy: We went to Italy for seven years in a row now. The last three times we have stayed at Frallerenza.It's simply the best place we have ever stayed at. The owners Serena and Francesco make you feel really welcome and at home. The appartments are designed very practical and the interior and decorations are beautiful. Serena makes her own pottery. The bigger appartment is perfect for a family or for a bigger group of people travelling together. The smaller appartment is alse perfect for couples or small families. The location is very convenient. The swimming pool is locatad very nice and perfect for as well smaller as bigger children.Orvieto is really nearby but also for example famous cities like Siena and Rome are easy to visit from here.
Nicole Advani, Breda Netherlands
29 May 2007 https://ricksteves.com/graffiti wall/Italian Agriturismos/2007
Great Italian Agriturismo-Umbria: If anyone is traveling by car thru Umbria (near Orvieto) and looking for a nice place to stay...We loved this place: Agriturismo Frallarenza. The accomodations are spacious, comfortable, and beautiful (and they have a pool!). The prices are unbeatable. Francesco and Serena were warm, wonderful hosts. They have done most all of the work themselves on their place, organically farming 10-15 acres of grapes and olives in addition to pursuing careers in weaving, ceramics and blacksmithing/farrier work. Their place is 20 minutes fom orvieto and +/- 1-1/4hr. by train from Rome. This was our first experience w/ Agriturismos. It was a great way to end a lovely time in Italy. It was a paradise!
David, Seattle, Wa USA
11 September 2006 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.4
Lovely place with great hospitality: Frallarenza is a beautiful Umbrian stone farmhouse nestled in quiet green countryside just two hours from Rome and 20 minutes from Orvieto. The house has been extended by the owners, Francesco and Serena, with infinite care and skill creating two appartments - one family sized and one for a couple. Using their craft skills with wood, ceramics and fabrics they have created a very comfortable and classic rural Italian home that their website photographs do not do justice to. The house is surrounded by their own organically grown grapes, olives and vegetables and Serena welcomed us with a package of tomatoes, oil, cake and bread. The pool overlooks their cherry orchard and with only two apartments on site should never get very busy. We found
it a very relaxing place to stay and in a good location for exploring many Umbrian hill towns - although you will need to negotiate a few hairpin bends to get to them.
Daniel & Melanie, England
9 September 2006 www.agriturismo.it/en/frallarenza/reviews pag.4
Beautiful place and great hospitality: The place is beautiful, the owners really very kind and hospitable. The apartment we stayed in was beautiful, independent, well-groomed, friendly and clean.
To welcome us, tired from the trip, a delicious homemade cake!
Also interesting is the possibility to attend courses in pottery and loom. We plan to go back.
Lucia Gaudenzi, Italy
(Google Translation)
Bellissimo posto e grande ospitalità: Il posto è magnifico, i proprietari veramente molto gentili e ospitali. L'appartamento in cui siamo stati è bellissimo, indipendente, curato nei minimi particolari, accogliente e pulitissimo.
Ad accoglierci, stanchi dal viaggio, una torta squisita fatta in casa!
Interessante anche la possibilità di frequentare dei corsi di terracotta e telaio. Abbiamo in programma di tornarci.
Lucia Gaudenzi, Italia
6 August 2006 www.agriturismo.it/commenti pag.4
RTrue Relaxation: I've been on this farm in July 2005, and I was really happy. Immersed in the green, in absolute quiet. The owners are exquisite, the apartment is well kept and very clean. And 'ideal for a relaxing stay.
Fulvio Fagotti, Italy
(Google Translation)
Vero Relax: Sono stata in quest'agriturismo nel luglio 2005, e ne sono rimasta veramente contenta. Immersi nel verde, nella tranquillità più assoluta. I proprietari sono persone squisitissime, l'appartamentino è curatissimo e molto pulito. E' l'ideale per un soggiorno di relax.
Simona Reder, Italia