Tuscany is one of the most sought after holiday destinations in Europe and a place that I and many of my clients eagerly return to time and again.
From world heritage hill towns such as Pienza and San Gimignano, to highly regarded wine-estates like Chianti to Montalcino to Montepulciano, to seaside villages from Grosetto to Castiglione della Pescaia, I visited some of the most special places from which to base yourself in the region!
Arriving to L’Andana in Southern Tuscany, named after its gorgeous Cyprus-lined Drive.
An inviting lobby and welcome from the very attentive team at L’Andana.
My first meal in Tuscany, an exceptional start!!
The guest rooms in this historic hotel are all unique, some with baths large enough and impressive enough to suit a Roman!
Tenuta La Badiola – Yes, wine is important at L’Andana as is their Michelin Star dining!
Cinquecento, the vintage Fiats available In Italy, make for a great day of exploring. “Remember, be careful. It is like driving a grandmother,” cautions our guide.
Look out, Tuscany!
Coffee Breaks are always special with my fabulous Italian partners!
From Coffee to Wine. Loved this little gem of a boutique winery, Rocca de Motemassi!(great stop for families too due to incredible museum of ancient wine tasting)
Tuscan snacks take wine tasting to a whole new level – fried artichokes, prosciutto, Pecorino and of course chicken liver crostini!
What a wonderful seafood dinner at this wonderful family – owned trattoria in Castiglione della Pescaia.
Fond farewell from the fantastic and passionate management team at L’Andana!
Castello Banfi is for wine lovers. A gorgeous medieval castle hotel from which to explore the region or to simply come in for wonderful wine and a meal!
These are the souvenirs I shipped home!
I was incredibly impressed with the balsamic vinegar produced at Banfi, aged for 12 years in 4 types of oak – can almost drink it! Additional souvenirs sent home to my kitchen!
Banfi, along with Antinori, is one of the largest producers in Italy and the facilities are impressive!
…and a tour is only complete with a gorgeous lunch!
Castiglion del Bosco is truly a spectacular re-creation of an original neighborhood complete with a town and church. Owned by the Ferragamo family, the suites in the Borgo are gorgeous as are the number of villas on the land surrounding it. All managed by Rosewood with top end service, food, design and complete relaxation.
This is my top pick in Tuscany for families!
Walking through the borgo…
Arriving to my sumptuous suite – At Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco.
Villa life at Castiglion del Bosco all starts with a great chef and a bartender. Each historic villa offers land for privacy, views that go on forever, many have pools and pizza ovens, and Rosewood housekeeping and concierge. What else could you need?
Lets get this party started!
The cooking school is a must for all guests at Castiglion del Bosco.
The next day, you can pay a little penance in the chapel.
Say Cheese! A fantastic day in Pienza on a farm! Organic foods and all things Pecorino!
Last stop for the day is the breathtaking Abby of Monte Oliveto Maggiore – There are 35 frescoes which cover the entire surface of the four sides of the cloister and depict the life of St. Benedict – a genuine, uncrowded gem of fine renaissance masterpieces!
The day could only be topped with a private tasting at the winery of Castiglion del Bosco.
… or maybe a truffle pizza!
Tough to leave the Val D’Orcia – stunning!
But then we drive into one of the most romantic hotels I have ever seen.
Welcome to the breathtaking and idyllic – Borgo Santo Pietro –
Arriving here felt a bit like a dream….
The property is immense with quiet and attentive service throughout.
Each room is special, romantic and one-of-a-kind.
Little surprises throughout the grounds amaze and delight.
Organic bath products made in house.
The stunning and romantic rooms.
… and spectacular food and service.
Tuscany – a dream of a destination!
