Table of Content :
- Escape to Tuscany: Unforgettable Stay at B&B Il Grifone, Pistoia!
- Escape to Tuscany: Il Grifone - Where Tuscan Dreams (Almost) Come True! - A Review Straight From My Wine-Stained Notebook
- Okay, so… Tuscany. Sounds dreamy. But is B&B Il Grifone *actually* dreamy, or is it just another Instagram trap?
- The Breakfast... I'm intrigued. What's the deal? Is it the usual croissant-and-coffee situation, or something more?
- What about the location in Pistoia? Is it a good base for exploring Tuscany?
- What's the vibe of the B&B? Is it quiet and romantic, or more lively and social?
- Is there anything I should know *before* I go? Any hidden quirks or tips?
Escape to Tuscany: Unforgettable Stay at B&B Il Grifone, Pistoia!
Escape to Tuscany: Il Grifone - Where Tuscan Dreams (Almost) Come True! - A Review Straight From My Wine-Stained Notebook
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm back from Tuscany, and I'm still slightly drunk on the magic (and the Chianti). This review isn't your typical, sterile hotel blurb. This is raw, unfiltered, and hopefully, helpful. We're talking about Escape to Tuscany: Unforgettable Stay at B&B Il Grifone, Pistoia! Let's get messy, shall we?
First Impressions: Arrival and (Minor) Hiccups
Il Grifone is… well, it’s a B&B. That means charm factor on high, right? And yes, arriving, the exterior absolutely screams Tuscany. Stone walls, cypress trees, the whole shebang. Gorgeous. My inner Instagram addict was practically orgasming.
Accessibility (and the Fine Print):
Right off the bat, let's address something important. Accessibility: I didn't need specific accessibility accommodations, but I did nose around. Facilities for disabled guests are listed, which gave me a glimmer of hope. But here's the thing: the layout looked… hilly. Very Tuscan hilly. I'd seriously recommend calling ahead if you have mobility issues. Don't rely solely on the list; get the actual specifics. Elevator is listed, which is a plus, but where exactly? Ask!
The Rooms: My Little Tuscan Nest - (Almost) Perfect
I snagged a room! A lovely, air-conditioned room, thank goodness. Air Conditioning is a MUST in Tuscany in summer. The Wi-Fi [free] was surprisingly decent (thank you, gods of connectivity!). Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yep, hooked up right away.
- The Good: The bed! Oh, the bed! Extra long bed bliss. I slept like a log, which is rare for me. Blackout curtains were another godsend. No 6 AM wake-up calls from the Tuscan sun. Coffee/tea maker - essential for fighting off the jet lag demons. And the little touches? Fresh flowers, a complimentary tea, and slippers. Classy!
- The… less Good: My room had a window that opens, (duh, everything should have this), but the view, while technically of the rolling hills, was partially obscured by… a tree. First world problems, I know, but still. The mirror in the bathroom could have been bigger, and the shower was a bit… intimate. (Read: tiny.) But hey, it's a B&B, not the Ritz. There was also a slight mildew smell, which I hoped was just me.
And for the Nerds:
- Bathroom phone? Never used it. Did people still use bathroom phones?
- Internet access – wireless? Yes! Fast enough for my Instagram doom-scrolling.
- In-room safe box: Used it. Always.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Food, The Wine, Oh My!
Okay, let's be honest. This is the heart of the Tuscan experience, right? And Il Grifone didn’t disappoint, mostly.
- Breakfast [buffet]: Lovely! Breakfast [buffet] was included, and it was a solid spread. Fresh fruit, pastries, eggs, the works. Western breakfast was prominent, which you might expect, but there was also a nice selection of Italian meats and cheeses. They even had some Asian breakfast options, which was… unexpected, but a nice touch.
- Restaurants: They had a small restaurant on-site. A la carte in restaurant, you had your choices. The Pasta was amazing!
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: The coffee was definitely up to Italian standards - strong and delicious.
- My "Accidental" Happy Hour: One day, after a particularly grueling bike ride (more on that later), I stumbled into the bar at 5 pm. Apparently, it was happy hour (completely unplanned!), and I ended up enjoying a ridiculously cheap Aperol Spritz while watching the sun set over the vineyards. Pure, unadulterated bliss.
- Poolside bar, Poolside bar: Sadly, during my trip there was not.
Things to Do: Rest and Relaxation (Mostly)
Il Grifone is all about relaxing, breathing in the Tuscan air, and generally being fabulous.
- Swimming pool: The Swimming pool [outdoor] was the star. It offered Pool with view: Gorgeous views of the rolling hills. It was clean, refreshing, and the perfect place to spend an afternoon. I spent many afternoons there. A little too many, perhaps… my skin is still suffering.
- Massage: Spa/sauna and Massage: Okay, This is my confession. I booked a massage. And it was heavenly. The masseuse worked out all the knots from my travel and my daily intense hiking. I emerged feeling like a new woman, capable of conquering the world (or at least another plate of pasta).
- Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath: No, no and no.
- Sauna, Steamroom: The sauna and steam room were great.
- Gym/fitness: I may have looked at the gym/fitness center… from the outside. Let's just say, my idea of fitness on this trip involved Aperol Spritzes and gelato.
Services and Conveniences: The Nitty Gritty
- Daily housekeeping: Yup, kept my room spick and span.
- Laundry service, Dry cleaning, Ironing service: They had the basics.
- Concierge: Helpful for booking tours and restaurants (which is crucial, trust me!).
- Cash withdrawal: I didn't need this directly, but it's good to know they've got it.
- Gift/souvenir shop: Had a lovely little shop.
- Car park [free of charge]: Parking was free. Yay!
- Food delivery: I never used it, but it's there, which is a lifesaver.
Safety, Cleanliness, and the Post-COVID World:
This is important, folks. Il Grifone takes hygiene seriously.
- Cleanliness and safety: Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Room sanitization opt-out available are listed.
- Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Hand Sanitizer, Staff trained in safety protocol, and Sterilizing equipment. I did feel safe.
- Masks are optional: It was a relief.
COVID-19 Considerations (and My Random Ramblings):
Let’s be real, Cashless payment service, Contactless check-in/out, are now the new normal. I think Il Grifone did a good job of adapting.
For The Kids:
- Family/child friendly: They listed that, which is good.
- Babysitting service: Listed, as is Kids meal and Kids facilities.
Getting Around: Exploring Pistoia and Beyond
- Car park [on-site], Bicycle parking, Taxi service, Airport transfer: They had the basics covered.
- Car power charging station: No.
Things I Wish I Knew Beforehand (and Some Whimsical Observations):
- Mosquitoes: Pack bug spray! They are vicious.
- The Tuscan Sun: It's strong. Really strong. Wear sunscreen. And reapply. Constantly.
- The Roads: Narrow, winding, and exhilarating. Be prepared for white-knuckle driving. (Or better yet, hire a driver!)
- The Language Barrier: Knowing some basic Italian phrases is a huge help (and gets you a warm reception).
- The Hills: Tuscany is hilly. Be prepared to walk… a lot. And your calves will hate you.
Final Verdict: Would I Return?
Yes! Il Grifone isn't perfect, it's a genuine, charming B&B offering a taste of the authentic Tuscan experience. The staff are friendly, the views are stunning. My only gripe is that I didn't stay longer.
Emotional Rating:
- Charm Factor: 9/10 (That Tuscan charm is irresistible!)
- Foodgasms: 8/10 (Pasta, gelato, need I say more?)
- Relaxation Level: 10/10 (Pure bliss. Seriously.)
- Overall "Worth it" Factor: Absolutely! Book it. But call ahead about the accessibility.
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- Title: Escape to Tuscany: Unforgettable Stay at B&B Il Grifone, Pistoia! A Review
- Keywords: Tuscany, Pistoia, B&B, Il Grifone, Italy, Travel, Review, Hotel, Spa, Pool, Accessible, Food, Wine, Accommodation, Vacations,
Alright, buckle up, buttercups! Because this isn't your grandma's meticulously planned travel itinerary. This is my itinerary, a messy, glorious, Italian love story – and it all begins (or ends, who knows?) at the B&B Il Grifone in Pistoia.
The (Un)Official Itinerary: Pistoia, Italy – A Hot Mess Express
Day 1: Arrival & Pasta Panic
- Morning (ish): Land in Florence. Okay, the plan was to take a train straight to Pistoia, but I immediately got distracted. Florence, with its smell. God, that Florentine air! Leather, coffee, a hint of something ancient… swoon. Ended up wandering around, slightly delirious from jet lag and beauty overload, for a good three hours. Finally, finally dragged myself to the train station. I nearly missed my connection. Seriously, the Italians are way too casual about train announcements, y'know? "Prego, signorina…maybe?….if you hurry?…"
- Afternoon: Arrive in Pistoia. The B&B Il Grifone! Oh. My. Goodness. This place is… a dream. Cobblestone streets, a tiny courtyard overflowing with flowers, and a host, Paolo, who's basically a walking, talking Italian stereotype (in the best possible way). He greeted me with a hug and a "Benvenuta!" that made me melt. The room? Perfection. Rustic charm meets modern comfort. I'm pretty sure I did a little happy dance.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Pasta. The search for pasta. Paolo recommended a place called "Osteria Cencio." Found it. Almost. Got lost in a maze of charming streets, tripped over a cobblestone (classic), and whined dramatically because my stomach was doing the macarena. Finally, found it. The pasta? Worth every single stumble. A simple cacio e pepe that brought tears to my eyes. Seriously. Tears. And the wine? Oh, the wine… let's just say Paolo got a little worried when I started humming opera tunes on the way back.
- Night: Passed out. Food coma mixed with jetlag. Dreamt of pasta, cobblestones, and Paolo's infectious laugh.
Day 2: The Piazza, the Plants, and the Perpetual Search for Coffee
- Morning: Coffee. The need for coffee was real. Walked to the Piazza del Duomo. Mind. Blown. That cathedral! The Baptistery! All the art! Spent ages just staring, jaw agape. Nearly got run over by a Vespa. Note to self: look both ways, even on pedestrian streets. Coffee break. Needed. Every café seemed to be full of impossibly stylish Italians chatting animatedly, looking me up and down. Finally, a tiny little espresso bar. The espresso was so strong it felt like a religious experience.
- Late Morning: The nursery thing. Pistoia is famous for its plants. Paolo insisted I visit. I resisted. (I'm not a plant person. My orchids die.) But wow. These are the plant nurseries. I mean, these places were a world. Giant, sprawling, smells of earth and flowers. It was a bit too close to the big nurseries to make you feel like you're not an urbanite. I was overwhelmed. But… fascinating. Even I, the plant-murderer, was impressed.
- Afternoon: Lost again. Tried to find the "Museo Civico." Got completely sidetracked by a tiny antique shop. Ended up buying a chipped teacup and a book in Italian I can't read. Worth it? Absolutely. The museum? Maybe tomorrow.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: THE Duomo I am not religious, but I am an admirer of beauty. The Pistoia Duomo is everything everyone says it is. Every surface is decorated with something beautiful. I found a quiet seat and thought about how much beauty there is in the world.
- Night: Another pasta place. This time, "Trattoria Fiorentina." (Apparently, every other restaurant in Italy claims to be the original Fiorentina). This time, I found a restaurant with several other solo women, which made me feel less like I was in a movie. More wine, more laughter (and maybe a slightly tipsy karaoke session in my head).
Day 3: The Art, the Markets, and the Bitter Goodbye
- Morning: Finally made it to the Museo Civico! It's full of art! And history! I am so happy I went, it was beautiful.
- Afternoon: The market! I love markets. I'll buy anything. This one had food, clothes, housewares, all the same. It all looked beautiful. I bought a scarf, some fresh peaches, and a weird (but delicious) local sausage.
- Late Afternoon: I found a park. I sat and ate my peaches. Someone played a piece on a saxophone. It was lovely.
- Evening: I had such a wonderful experience that I began to consider staying. I even considered speaking to Paolo about it. But then, alas, I said my goodbyes to Paolo. I left. I knew the next day I had to go back to the world, and I was sad.
Day 4: Journey Home
- Morning: Wake up. Get on the train to the airport. I did not get to the airport in time for the flight.
Rambling Thoughts, Imperfections, and Utterly Random Observations:
- The language barrier: My Italian is terrible. A hodgepodge of broken phrases and frantic hand gestures. Somehow, it works. Italians are incredibly patient. I did learn a few phrases, mostly involving ordering food and wine. Priorities.
- The food: Oh. My. God. Everything. The bread, the cheese, the olive oil… I'm pretty sure I've gained five pounds just from breathing the air. No regrets.
- The beauty: It's overwhelming. Every corner you turn is a postcard. I'm starting to think I'll spend my life chasing the color blue in Italy.
- Emotional rollercoaster: One minute I'm euphoric, the next I'm lost and slightly panicked. Then I eat pasta, and everything is right with the world. Repeat cycle.
- Regrets: Not enough pictures. Not enough time. Not enough everything. Wish I'd spoken a bit more Italian. Should have stayed at least one more day. I'm already planning my return.
This, my friends, is just a glimpse. Pistoia, and Italy, are a swirling, messy, beautiful mess. And I wouldn't have it any other way. Now, where's that limoncello?
Escape to Luxury: Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook's Hidden Gem
Okay, so… Tuscany. Sounds dreamy. But is B&B Il Grifone *actually* dreamy, or is it just another Instagram trap?
Alright, buckle up, because honesty here is a *requirement*. Il Grifone… It's not perfect. And that's kind of *why* it's amazing. Look, I went in expecting, you know, perfectly manicured olive groves, and a butler. (Okay, maybe not the butler, but a *hint* of perfect).
First impressions? Pistoia itself is a beauty, genuinely unspoiled. The B&B is tucked away in this charming, slightly crumbling, ancient building. Which, let's be honest, can be a bit daunting when you're dragging your suitcase up cobblestone streets. I nearly lost a wheel! But then you see Maria, the owner, and she's practically radiating sunshine. She rushed out to help, all apologetic smiles. Immediately, the Instagram pressure melted away.
The room? Not a minimalist, sterile white. Think… rustic charm. Exposed beams! A slightly wonky window that somehow let in the most glorious morning light. And, okay, the plumbing did, on one occasion, hiccup a little. But it was *charming* in its imperfection. You felt, you know, *alive* inside, not like you were just a guest in a museum.
Then there was the breakfast… More on that later, but it's a rollercoaster.
So, not perfect. But genuinely lovely. Dreamy in its own, slightly chaotic, perfectly Italian way. So yeah, not an Instagram trap, it’s a real place, with real people, and real life. And I loved it. More on the breakfast later, I need to talk about the breakfast.
The Breakfast... I'm intrigued. What's the deal? Is it the usual croissant-and-coffee situation, or something more?
The Breakfast. Oh, the breakfast. Maria, bless her heart, is a *force*. Forget your continental. It’s more like a continental, *plus all of Italy*.
Expect: Freshly baked bread. Croissants that practically melt in your mouth. Homemade jams – the fig one? *Devine*. Coffee that’ll launch you into orbit (seriously, I’m pretty sure it cured my jet lag). And then… the surprises. Today it might be a frittata, bursting with local vegetables. Tomorrow, a plate of cured meats and cheeses that would make a Roman emperor weep with joy.
Here's the catch: it's a *lot*. And sometimes, you're still digesting dinner from the night before, and Maria is piling your plate with yet another delicious offering. I'm not saying I waddled out of there every morning, but… let's just say I learned the phrase, "Un po' meno, grazie" (a little less, thank you) very quickly.
But the *atmosphere*! Maria chats, she laughs, she fusses over you like you're her long-lost relative. The other guests are usually a delightful mix of people. One morning, I’m pretty sure I saw a couple of octogenarians trying to flirt with a couple of students. Pure gold. Seriously, the breakfast is an event. And, honestly? It’s worth going back for the breakfast alone. And the way the steam from the coffee mixed with the morning light... pure poetry. I should write a poem.
What about the location in Pistoia? Is it a good base for exploring Tuscany?
Pistoia itself is a GEM. Forget those ridiculous crowds in Florence. This place is *real*. And it's a brilliant base. I mean, if you're used to the chaos of Rome, you will sigh with relief at the pace of Pistoia. It’s a charming little city, and seriously underestimated.
You're close enough to Florence for a day trip (train is super easy, and they don't call it the "Renaissance City" for nothing), but you're also smack-dab in the middle of some amazing countryside. Think rolling hills, vineyards galore, and those impossibly picturesque towns you see in all the travel brochures.
The train connections are solid, which is a massive bonus if, like me, you're not keen on driving those winding Tuscan roads (I have a license, but I'm *terrifying* behind the wheel).
But the best part? You can wander around Pistoia itself. The central piazza is gorgeous, filled with cafes where you can linger for hours, watching the world go by with a glass of local wine. Seriously, Pistoia is a little bit of magic. I miss it already. Oh, and the markets! Don't miss the markets. I should have bought more salami.
What's the vibe of the B&B? Is it quiet and romantic, or more lively and social?
It's… a bit of both, which is what makes it special. Maria is the nucleus of the whole operation, and she's a social butterfly. She'll happily chat with you in her broken English, making you feel like you're part of her family.
There's a common area where you can relax, read a book, or, if you're lucky, get drawn into a spontaneous conversation with other guests. I met a lovely couple from Canada who were celebrating their anniversary. They gave me advice on the best gelato places. It was just lovely.
The rooms are generally quiet, especially at night. But the mornings are buzzing with the clatter of breakfast prep and the chatter of people. You might hear the church bells in the distance.
It’s not a place for serious solitude, but you’ll have plenty of downtime to find it. If you want a party atmosphere, this isn't it. If you want a genuine, warm, and welcoming experience, you've come to the right place. It's like being a guest in a friend's ridiculously well-appointed, slightly quirky Tuscan home. And... well, I made a friend.
Is there anything I should know *before* I go? Any hidden quirks or tips?
Okay, listen up. Here's the *real* insider info.
* **Pack light-ish.** Cobblestone streets and suitcases don’t mix. Seriously. You'll thank me. My back is still recovering.
* **Learn a few basic Italian phrases.** Maria appreciates the effort, even if you butcher it (which, let's be honest, you probably will). "Grazie" and "Prego" go a long way. And "Un altro cappuccino, per favore!" (another cappuccino, please!) is basically essential.
* **Embrace the slow pace.** Tuscany is all about *dolce far niente* (the sweetness of doing nothing). Don't rush. Sit, savor the moment, drink your coffee, enjoy the sun on your skin.
* **Be prepared for warmth.** Not just the weather (though that's definitely a factor), but the genuine, heartfelt warmth of the people.
* **Don't be afraid to ask Maria for recommendations.** She knows all the best local spots, the hidden gems, and the restaurants that are *actually* worth your time. And she loves to share. Seriously, listen to her. I didn't, once, and regretted it.
* **Bring an empty stomach.** You'll need it. Especially at breakfast. Just warning you now.
* **Don't expect everything to be slick and perfect.** This isn't a chain hotel. It's authentic. And the imperfections are part of the charm.
* **Prepare to fall in love with Pistoia.** I warn you, it's addictive.
Oh, and one last thing: **Book well in advance.** Seriously. This isn't a secret anymore, and it's popular for a reason. AndUptown Lodging
B&B Il Grifone Pistoia Italy
B&B Il Grifone Pistoia Italy
