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About ten years ago (but who’s counting?), when I first connected with Arianna and Alessio, from the get go I knew that they were exactly the kind of travel partners I was looking for…and that was a decision I have never regretted!
Their passion and dedication to “slow food”, authentic and organic, and to their Chianti Country community of local producers and suppliers that they work with is obvious and the foundation of their success.
I was and remain 100% confident that my friends/clients will always have a very special experience planned with Arianna and Alessio and the KMZero team.
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Over the years, I have seen them grow, innovate and create new ways to share their passion and their dream.
From California to Chianti Country, spending time with Arianna & Alessio (even when we had to wear masks)…always all smiles!
During COVID, when all travel came to a stop, they created an on-line gift box business offering seasonal artisanal organic goodies from the Tuscan countryside – everything from olive oil and locally made beauty products to condiments and hand painted ceramic gifts were lovingly chosen were gift-box packaged and shipped to fans and clients.
COVID didn’t stop them! KMZero treats in a gift box!
Never giving in or giving up, after COVID, they not only resumed their custom itinerary offerings but undertook a major new project! When I came to Florence (during COVID) and was ultimately able to once again spend time with them, they showed me the property they were planning on restoring. I wish I had photos but trust me when I say that it was definitely a “fixer upper”!
A farmhouse and land that had been long neglected and was in desperate need of love and lots of hard work. And Arianna and Alessio had plenty of both…and they had a dream. As we walked around the property, Arianna described what would be their new home (then a stone shell) as well as a place for guests to visit (other stone shell!)…and a property where the land, with its olive trees, grape vines (and potential!) as well as the bunnies and chickens, would flourish.
And today, five years and a lot of love and sweat equity later, Podere Valigondoli is all that and more! Beautifully restored, down to the last charming detail, their main house, guest area and lovely patio are the perfect venue to welcome and entertain friends and guests.
The welcoming committee & an absolutely fabulous new space!
And let’s not forget the olive trees, grape vines and critters! They, too, are now thriving. Podere Valigondoli, officially founded in 2024, offers a sublime olive oil and palate-pleasing selection of varietals for wine tasting (yes, they have their own cellar)!
The grounds are spectacularly landscaped and beautiful – everything is flourishing and, yes, the bunnies, chickens and now two donkeys, also have the perfect habitats.
We have been trying to coordinate a visit for about two years and FINALLY, with a lovely mutual friend, Maria, offering to drive, I was able to visit 0h-so-picturesque Chianti Country and we both fell in love with Podere Valigondoli!
Loving this time together (Photo Credit: Maria B.)
We enjoyed an informative tour of their property (including Alessio’s wine cellar!) and then a lively, delicious tasting and sampling of their olive oil and wines – highlighted by the delightful “story” behind their logo and labels.
♥ All made with love – always the secret ingredient! ♥
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♥ In addition to hosting guests at Podere Valigondoli, their KMZero Slow Travel biz continues to offer excellent customized immersive experiences in Chianti Country.
♥ For more information, contact:
poderevaligondali@gmail.com
arianna@kmzerotours.com
postcardsfromvictoria@gmail.com
♥ More here:
www.poderevaligondoli.it
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