Having read all the good comments about this hotel we made a reservation for 2 nights. When we arrived, we were told that due to a virus in the computer there was a problem of overbooking but we did not have to worry because they had made a reservation for us in another hotel. The lady told us not to pay anything in the hotel because, although more expensive, she would take care of it by paying the difference, because it was her fault. To make sure that she was telling the truth we asked for the price of the room in the hotel where we were (6 km from San Gimignano and no views at all) and we realized that it was in fact 30 Euros cheaper than the price we were paying to the person in charge of Podere Santa Elena. So, I am sure that this hotel is very nice if you get a room there but be careful, because you may end up in a different hotel paying more money than the real cost of the room.

Staying at this villa was a wonderful experience. The room was perfect-it had a great view of the town of San Gimignano and was spacious. Breakfast was a nice treat. The walk to town was my favorite. It's a 15 min stroll into town through the Tuscan countryside. The town of San Gimignano is so worth visiting.

I have just returned from a week's holiday in San Gimignano, Tuscany. I was lucky enough to stay at a wonderful farmhouse about 2km from San Gimignano - Podere Sant Elena. My friend and I stayed in the apartment (defianately worth paying the small amount extra for) - it was very well equipt with a lounge, kitchen, dressing room, bathroom and a triple bedroom with spectacular views from the two windows. The price of the apartment also includes a breakfast in the converted barn. The view from the immaculately clean pool is breathtaking - vineyards, the towers of San Gimignano and the countryside. The family who own the farmhouse are so friendly and will do anything to make your stay more enjoyable. Massimo - the young guy who worked at the pool in the afternoons was really friendly and full of advice on where to go during the holiday. Barbara and Gianni also own the Patisserie in the town - pay a visit, the chocolates and cakes are delicious. The memory of the church bells ringing on the Sunday in the distance will stay with me forever. I hope to return one day and would recommend this wonderful tranquil place to anyone. A must for anyone visiting Italy.