Il Grande Prato: A Heavenly Agriturismo

When researching where to stay in Tuscany, we were debating between a few private villas/apartments and an Agriturismo. The trusty Amsterdam Mamas group had published a list of "Mama-recommended" family-friendly places to stay in Europe. I checked out their Tuscany recommendation, Il Grande Prato and it seemed too good to be true. 75 Euro/person a day for a private 2 bedroom apartment, with breakfast and dinner included. The reviews were shinning so we quickly booked. 

After our debacle getting to the Argiturismo, we were greeted with sweeping Tuscan views, beautiful grounds and a cozy apartment. I think the place/places you stay can make or break a vacation and this place definitely made it. Or in the words of Pops, "If Heaven is like this, then call me a believer." 

  

Wonderful Views. They didn't call this the Bella Vista Apartment for nothing. 

Pre-dinner reading

Well kept, authentic buildings and grounds. The owners bought the property around 30 years ago when it was just a few crumbling farm houses. They have restored and expanded it beautifully. This year is their 20th anniversary of operation. 

Good people. The owner's mother helps cook all of the meals and is just the most adorable Italian grandma! Coincidentally, we found out that a Dutch couple from Utrecht was doing a work-stay at Il Grande Prato with their son, who is just a few months older than Jude. We really enjoyed meeting them and watching the boys play. 

Awesome pool. We had gorgeous weather with temps in the 80s daily, so a nice refreshing pool was a must-have!

Cute stuff, coming through!

Local Tuscan cuisine. We chose the half board option and had a daily breakfast spread and 4 course dinners with free flowing wine. It was served family style with the other guests under the setting sun and stars. Each night there were special treats- grappa, vin santo (Italian dessert wine), pizza night with Giuseppe, BBQ night, etc. It felt like the best kind of summer camp. Great anticipation when the dinner bell rang around 8pm for what we would be served!

One afternoon, we found a note tacked to our door inviting us for a cooking class before dinner. Some of us made fresh pasta and some made tiramisu. Both were enjoyed that evening!

Venus and Jupiter

And we can't forget the friendly dog, Poldo. A real sweetie with Jude. 

What really capped off the experience was our last night. We had shared the week with a group of yogis from Oregon. This was the 10th anniversary of the group leader bringing guests for the retreat. The owners made a really special celebration of the occasion and we were lucky enough to be there for it! 

It started with a beautifully set table under the arbor, a different setting than the previous 5 nights. 

Which was followed by a bubbly toast with local brut.

 And then a surprise performance by a local trio who are friends with the owners. 

Whose performance throughout the meal culminated in a participatory musical celebration. Everyone was given a different noise maker and my dad led the group in a marimba line. Gosh, parents can be so embarrassing sometimes (and also, so much fun :)). 

And finally, a special serenade for my mom by the 77 year old sax player. He was really smitten!