Mansarda Isabella

Hotel Description

You know what? I’ve stayed in a lot of places in Tuscany, but Mansarda Isabella genuinely surprised me. It’s tucked away on Via di Mezzano in Greve in Chianti – and I mean properly tucked away, not just “charming and secluded” like the brochures say. When you’re driving through Greve, you’ll probably miss the turn the first time (I did), but once you find it, you’ll understand why this place has that crazy 9.9 rating. The building itself has this weathered stone facade that looks like it’s been watching over the Chianti hills for centuries, and honestly, it probably has. Isabella – yes, there’s actually an Isabella who runs the place – met me at check-in with this warm, no-nonsense energy that immediately made me feel like I was staying with a particularly stylish Italian aunt.

The rooms are what you’d call “mansarda” style, which basically means they’re up in the converted attic space, but don’t let that fool you into thinking cramped or stuffy. The sloped ceilings and exposed beams create this incredibly cozy atmosphere, and the windows – oh man, the windows. You wake up to vineyards rolling out in every direction, with that soft morning light that makes everything look like a Renaissance painting. I mean, I’m not usually one for getting up early, but I found myself having coffee on the little terrace at dawn just to watch the mist lift off the vines. The furnishings strike that perfect balance between rustic and refined – think antique wooden furniture mixed with modern linens, and everything feels authentically Tuscan without being theme-park cheesy. The bathroom was surprisingly spacious (always a concern with these converted spaces), and the shower had proper water pressure, which, let’s be honest, isn’t always a given in historic Italian buildings.

What really sets this place apart, though, is the location and Isabella’s insider knowledge. You’re literally a five-minute walk from Greve’s main piazza, where the Saturday market happens – and Isabella will tell you exactly which stalls have the best pecorino and which ones to avoid. She also pointed me toward this little enoteca down a side street that I never would have found otherwise, where the owner let me taste wines from tiny producers you can’t find anywhere else. The parking situation is actually pretty straightforward (there’s a small lot behind the building), which is more than I can say for some places in the area. Evenings are blissfully quiet – you get vineyard sounds, not traffic – but you’re still close enough to walk to dinner without needing to drive those winding Chianti roads after wine tasting. If you’re planning to explore the region, this is honestly the perfect base. It feels like discovering a secret that other travelers haven’t quite caught onto yet, even though that rating suggests maybe they have.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $158. One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Exceptional – Ingrid from Brazil – 30 June 2025 (10/10)

  We loved everything! We wished we stayed longer. The place is beautiful, comfortable, quiet with stunning views. The host was always available and check in and out were smooth. Plus we got to meet Mirta, the lovely dog 🩷 which was the cherry on the cake 😊
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Just book it – it’s perfect for a quiet getaway! – Sam from United Kingdom – 19 June 2025 (9/10)

  Much like everyone else who has stayed at this property, we thought it was absolutely superb. Great communication from owners and Stefano before arrival and restaurant suggestions. The views, the decoration and Mirta (their doggy) are 10/10. One of the best properties I’ve ever stayed at!
  
  What could be improved: The shower was a little basic/the main part was broken.

• Exceptional – Olga from Czech Republic – 7 June 2025 (10/10)

  Very nice apartment with an amazing view of the Tuscan countryside.
  
  What could be improved: Someone was mowing the lawn from the morning so it was hard to sleep in 🙁

• Home away from home in Chianti – Brendon from Thailand – 6 June 2025 (10/10)

  Azzurra and Marco put their heart and soul into their quite large Mansarda Isabella. And their beautiful puppy dog Mirta is the cutest.
  
  Apartment is large, excellently equipped with high quality furniture and fittings throughout. Huge kitchen with everything you may need. Milk, an Italian Breakfast.
  
  Amazing view for sunset and multiple rooms through the apartment made our time very relaxing. A drink at Sunset, second night with our hosts and then we would watch a movie/read books in the living room before bed.
  
  Will come back soon.
  
  What could be improved: ONLY that we could not take Mirta (their dog) home with us.

• Magical – Jan from South Africa – 3 June 2025 (10/10)

  Spectacular views and very well appointed facilities. Our host Stefano was and his beautiful dog became our best buddy.
  
  What could be improved: I’m tall, the roof is low, but that’s just funny and not a criticism.

• Magical place – Anna from United Kingdom – 17 May 2025 (10/10)

  Absolutely stunning location with views of Florence in the distance and most spectacular sunset! Azzura and Marco are the most welcoming and friendly hosts you would meet, they made sure our stay was perfect. The accommodation was very clean and comfortable with everything you need. The communication was excellent and we had lots of helpful tips of places to visit and where to park in Florence (about 25-30 minutes away). We will be back!

• peaceful place with a unique atmosphere – Marcin from Poland – 4 May 2025 (10/10)

  A peaceful retreat away from the tourist crowds. This place has a unique atmosphere and offers the perfect setting to relax and unwind. The sunset view was absolutely beautiful. I definitely want to come back and stay longer next time.
  
  What could be improved: make sure to bring some food

• Magical home from home. – James from United Kingdom – 4 August 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful location. Sunset on the terrace was stunning. The apartment is beautifully appointed with attention to detail. It feels like a home. Loved the included amenities. Hosts were friendly and welcoming (including the lovely dog)
  
  What could be improved: The drive up to the property can be a bit daunting for those unused to driving Tuscan hillside roads.

• A beautiful apartment on a hill with amazing view – Monir from Bahrain – 26 July 2024 (10/10)

  A magical place on top of a hill with splendid view over the most beautiful landscape. It's a great hideaway and one of the best places to come to get away from the busy City Life.
  
  What could be improved: There's nothing that I didn't like about this place.

• Exceptional – Dejan from Slovenia – 21 July 2024 (10/10)

  Lovely view, amazing owner and comfy apartment

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities