Podere La Strega

Podere La Strega Overview

Look, I’ve stayed at a lot of places in Tuscany, but Podere La Strega genuinely surprised me – and that’s not easy to do anymore. The name literally means “The Witch’s Farm,” which honestly had me a bit nervous at first, but it turns out to be this beautifully restored farmhouse about 15 minutes outside Siena’s city center. You know what I mean when I say it’s far enough to feel properly countryside but close enough that you’re not completely cut off from civilization.

The drive up Strada dell’Ascarello is actually part of the experience – winding through olive groves and vineyards, past those classic Tuscan cypress trees that look almost too perfect to be real. When you pull up, there’s this immediate sense of… I don’t know, stepping back in time? The stone buildings have that weathered patina that you can’t fake, and the gardens sprawl in that effortless Italian way where everything looks wild but is clearly well-tended. Check-in was refreshingly personal – the owner actually showed us around herself, pointing out which rooms get the best morning light and where to find the best hiking trails nearby. That 9.1 rating starts making sense pretty quickly.

What really won me over was how they’ve managed to modernize without losing the soul of the place. The rooms blend rustic charm with proper comfort – think exposed beams and terracotta floors, but also excellent Wi-Fi and bathrooms that actually work well. The pool area is positioned to catch both morning and evening light, and honestly, the view over the Siena countryside from there is worth the price of admission alone. You can actually see the Duomo’s tower in the distance on clear days. The restaurant serves dinner on request, and they source most ingredients from their own gardens or nearby farms – I had this incredible ribollita soup that tasted like someone’s nonna had been perfecting the recipe for decades. Breakfast happens on the terrace when weather permits, and there’s something magical about starting your day with fresh pecorino and local honey while listening to nothing but birds and the occasional distant church bell. The only minor thing I’d mention is that if you’re planning to explore Siena extensively, you’ll want a car – there’s no real public transport out here, but that’s also part of what makes it feel so authentically rural.

Podere La Strega Accommodations

Reviews of Podere La Strega

• Lovely place in Siena – Dian from Switzerland – 12 July 2025 (10/10)

  We loved everything, the location has a beautiful view to Siena skyline, drive about 10 minutes to S.Francesco parking then take elevator to Siena Oldtown. The podere has a country style charm with olives trees farm, little roads, beautiful garden with pool and nice long breakfast table. Letizia and her husband were so helpful with any information needed and helped us to make dinner reservations during our 3 nights stay.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

• Great pool and views – Christine from United Kingdom – 1 July 2025 (9/10)

  Great views from the property of siena.
  Well maintained gardens with amazing pool.
  Good sized rooms.
  Access to kitchen areas to prepare your own food.
  Free private parking.
  Owners are really friendly and welcoming.
  
  What could be improved: Too far to walk into Siena, reviews say 30 minutes but took much longer and we are quick walkers.
  Was initially given a economy room but had booked a standard room this was rectified.

• Exceptional – Ricks from United States – 28 June 2025 (10/10)

  Might just be my favorite place that I’ve ever stayed at. The pictures do not do it justice for just how beautiful the house and property are! The view is out of this world, breakfast was amazing. The staff were the kindest and most caring people. Washed our clothes and had them ready the next morning! Will definitely be back soon!

• A Perfect Tuscan Getaway at Podere La Strega – Tanaka from United States – 24 June 2025 (10/10)

  We had an absolutely wonderful stay at Podere La Strega! Letizia was an amazing host — warm, welcoming, and extremely helpful throughout our visit. The breakfast every morning was a treat, with delicious cappuccinos, fresh juices, and homemade jams that were simply delightful. The pool was a welcome relief from the warm summer days and offered an absolutely breathtaking view of Siena. The location of the property was ideal, making it a perfect central base for exploring Tuscany. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience and can’t wait to return!

• Amazing – Laura from United Kingdom – 19 June 2025 (10/10)

  The view was amazing , the staff were very friendly and welcoming and the farmhouse had lots of character
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Loved it ! – Talia from Australia – 14 June 2025 (9/10)

  The property was beautiful. An old Italian villa in the Tuscan hills. So well maintained and run by a beautiful family. A short walk to Siena (up and down the hills) but loved my short stay here.

• Thank you to Letizia and her husband and see you next year – Marysia from United States – 12 June 2025 (10/10)

  Location is excellent only 7 min away from Siena old town. Easy parking.
  Beautiful scenery very peaceful and unforgettable smell of roses and Jasmine. Most of all hospitality of owners, Letizia is lovely and helpful hostess.
  
  What could be improved: We are coming back next year so it means this property is amazing to stay .

• Beautiful, peaceful stay, walking distance from the city – Michael from United States – 12 June 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful location, lovely breakfast, wonderful hosts who were very helpful. Faultless.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. One thing to note, though: if you are not comfortable with or able to walk a steep uphill climb, the walk into the city might not be ideal for you. The walk does halve the journey by foot into the city though, which is great!

• Stunning view from beautifully restored homely farmhouse with a warm welcome! – Christine from United Kingdom – 31 May 2025 (10/10)

  Everything! We will definitely return! Discovering the old farmhouse along the lane. Opening the gate and WOW!!! What a view of Siena! Lovely outdoor space to admire the view and drink local wine. The warm welcome from the family. The quirkiness and wonderful restoration of the house. Breakfast around a big table. The pool looked great as they prepared for it to open
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Beautiful old country house looking down over Sienna about a mile away. – Eric from United Kingdom – 27 May 2025 (8/10)

  Beautiful views, pool and garden. Very helpful and friendly hosts.
  
  What could be improved: Room a little cramped and being an older couple lack of a lift or ground floor room was difficult.

Surroundings

Facilities