Villa Zelma

Hotel Description

You know what caught me off guard about Villa Zelma? The absolute silence when you step out onto the terrace in the morning. I mean, you’re technically still in Tuscany – well, sort of the edge of it where it meets the Pistoia mountains – but this little pocket of Cantagrillo feels completely removed from everything. The villa sits on Via Castel dè Bobi, which honestly sounds more dramatic than it is (it’s basically a quiet country lane), but that’s exactly why it works so well.

The building itself has that authentic Italian villa feel without being stuffy about it. The owners clearly put thought into keeping the original character – thick stone walls, wooden beams, the kind of shutters that actually keep the afternoon sun out. What I really appreciated was how they handled the modern updates. The bathrooms are genuinely nice, the wifi actually works throughout the property, and there’s proper air conditioning for those brutal July afternoons. Check-in was refreshingly straightforward too – no hovering or lengthy explanations, just keys and genuine recommendations for dinner spots in nearby Serravalle Pistoiese.

Here’s the thing about the location that you won’t get from looking at a map: you’re about fifteen minutes from Montecatini Terme if you want the full spa town experience, but you’re also perfectly positioned for hiking in the Pistoia mountains if that’s more your speed. The parking situation is actually great (there’s a proper lot, not street scrambling), and honestly, you’ll need a car here – but that’s part of the charm. The surrounding area is all rolling hills and olive groves, with those cypress-lined drives that make you feel like you’re in a postcard. I found myself taking evening walks along the country roads just because the light hits the landscape perfectly around 7 PM.

The rooms themselves feel generous – high ceilings, good natural light, and beds that are actually comfortable (you’d be surprised how often Italian hotels miss this mark). There’s a pool area that gets morning sun, and the staff seems to know exactly when to be helpful and when to leave you alone. What really sold me was the breakfast setup on the terrace – nothing fancy, but proper coffee, local pastries, and that view across the valley that changes completely depending on the weather. I stayed in early October, and the morning mist rolling through the hills was honestly magical.

Look, Villa Zelma isn’t trying to be a luxury resort or a boutique showpiece. It’s just a really solid, well-run place that happens to sit in a beautiful spot. The 4-star rating feels right – comfortable without being pretentious, and that 8.9 guest rating makes total sense once you’ve been there. If you’re looking for nightlife or walking access to museums, this isn’t your place. But if you want to actually relax in Tuscany, use it as a base for day trips, and sleep really well in a quiet, beautiful setting, then Villa Zelma delivers exactly what it promises.

Rooms

• Classic Triple Room with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for 3 adults
• Superior Double Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Deluxe Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Triple Room with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for 3 adults
• Standard Double Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• Quadruple Room with 2 single beds and 1 large double bed for 4 adults

Reviews

• Richard from United States (10/10)

  Amazing rural location and affordable! We were lucky to have a rental car so we could spend some time in this Tuscan villa. Our upper room was so beautiful, especially when we opened windows and shutters to see rolling hillside. Room had AC with mini split. There is a fabulous restaurant onsite and places to wander to see more views. The staff was so accommodating that we felt like family. It was easy to communicate in English, Spanish and of course Italian.

• Jorge from Australia (10/10)

  A beautiful location, the villa was simply gorgeous and wonderful to wake up to the stunning nature surrounding it. We are only sad we couldn’t stay longer! Due to an emergency trip to the hospital in Florence, we arrived late and didn’t get to enjoy the dinner and breakfast, although I can tell you the breakfast smelt amazing as we were leaving. I highly recommend this Villa, the staff are kind and attentive.

• Anja from Slovenia (10/10)

  We liked the calmness of the place. It gives one a perfect chance to relax and rewind.

• Hanna from Hungary (10/10)

  Villa Zelma is situated in one of the most beautiful locations, offering stunning views of the Tuscan hills from its windows. Both Pisa and Florence were easily accessible by car, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. We thoroughly enjoyed our time by the pool, and the staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating. The food was exceptional as well. We can't wait to return. We are so grateful for the relaxing time we spent at Villa Zelma 🤍

• Ella from Australia (9/10)

  The rooms and grounds of the villa were absolutely breathtaking. The room had a view of the Tuscan countryside and was furnished beautifully. The pool area was also great, and you could order lunch & drinks to the pool! Breakfast selection was great, and dinner was a great option there too since it’s a bit far away from other restaurants. Such great value for money in my opinion and would be back in a heartbeat!

• Andrijana from Serbia (10/10)

  Everything was great! The have the most magical pool. Its cosy and warm. The breakfast had a lot of different options.

• Cheryl from United States (10/10)

  Absolutely stunning, the photos do not do it justice. Loved the style of the lodging, so warm and welcoming. We beat the tourist season and had the place almost entirely to ourselves.

• Noham from Israel (9/10)

  Our hostess Chiara was very welcoming from the start. She was very helpful throughout our stay. The villa is located at the top of a hill which meant amazing views. The room was comfortable and we had an excellent time. Great value for money!

• Rochel from United States (9/10)

  Absolutely beautiful space with delicious food and a gorgeous view.

• Imogen from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Lovely place, very beautiful, highly recommended.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities