After some searchwork on the internet for a holiday stay in Tuscany, we found the nice website of Residence Santa Maria in Alberi (Montaione).
We took contact via e-mail and immediately received all necessary information from Stefania, who runs the Residence.
The reservation went very smoothly.
Quick replies and payment confirmation.
We booked our flights with Ryanair and rented a car (Fiat Punto) with Hertz, all on-line via their websites.
We had no problems at all (no queing) when arriving at Pisa. Within half an hour we had our luggage and the car ready to drive to Montaione (Alberi), which is a 45 minutes drive from Pisa airport.
On arrival at Residence Santa Maria, Stefania welcomed us, showed our appartment and gave a lot of practical information and tips (good restaurants / supermarkets / open markets / local events etc.)
We booked the Michelangelo appartment, which is a duplex with a nice kitchen, 2 (small) badrooms with a shower, 2 bedrooms each with a double bed, 3 terraces. This appartment is spacious enough for 4 persons, comfortable (sattelite tv / dishwasher) and very clean.
However, no air conditioning, which is a little bit a pity in the hot season (July / August).
There is safe parking space for the car.
During our stay the 10 appartments were fully occupied : Belgians, Dutch, Spanish, Italians, Germans, English.
Some couples, but most families with children.
But it remains a quiet residence where you can relax at the beautiful swimming pool or enjoy the well kept garden.
There is garden furniture available for all guests at swimming pool.
Alberi (Montaione) is well located to visit the most interesting places in the north/middle of Tuscany. San Gimignano, Volterra, Firenze, Sienna, Pisa, Lucca, Certaldo, Pontedera (Vespa Museum), San Miniato, Colle di Val d’Elsa are all within 30 to 60 minutes’ drive.
We would highly recommend Residence Santa Maria to families who want to combine a relaxing holiday at the poolside with visiting losts of beautiful places.
The only negative point in Tuscany are the very aggressive tiger mosquitos.