Siena
Tuscany, Italy
Arguably the most perfect medieval city in the world, Siena is a glorious ensemble of red brick buildings and exquisite monuments, famous for its fan-shaped Campo and Il Palio horse race.
Recommended place to stay:
This beautiful, stylishly-restored 17th century farmhouse complex has been turned into a luxury country retreat, hidden away down a long winding lane in the UNESCO-designated Val d’Orcia.
The 12 bedrooms – which size-wise are more like suites – inhabit the old stone farm buildings, and are done out in luxe-rustic style with massive beds, splendid bathrooms and private garden areas.
The heart of the hotel is the restaurant, with its open kitchen and vast fireplace; meals are served here in cooler weather, or on the romantic terrace decorated with fairy lights in summer.
Located in the heart of the Val d’Orcia, just outside Montepulciano, Lupaia makes a perfect base for exploring the area; Pienza, Bagno Vignoni and San Quirico d’Orcia are all within a 30-minute drive.
The owner-managers are always on hand and full of helpful advice about how to get the best from the area, giving the place a really personal, intimate feel.
It’s a great choice for couples and those who want to really immerse themselves in Tuscan life.
The property is set in open, rolling countryside down a 2.5km unpaved road, that winds through olive groves and vineyards.
Views are of rolling hills dotted with cypresses and the odd mellow farmhouse, with Montepulciano across the valley. The soundtrack to a stay here is of birds and bees.
Montepulciano is a lively town with restaurants, cafés, bars and some good shops and a summer classical music festival.
For all you foodies out there, the hotel offers several tempting gastronomic experiences you can sign up for – a cooking class (3-course Italian meal), a wine tasting, a sunset negroni experience and a truffle hunt (you get to eat the truffles after in a dish prepared by the chef).
You can also book onto a 4-hour guided e-bike tour with Andrea through beautiful Tuscan countryside. It’s a superb circular route, taking in the towns of Montefollonico, Pienza and Montepulciano (shorter, single-town options are available too).
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Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
Tuscany, Italy
Arguably the most perfect medieval city in the world, Siena is a glorious ensemble of red brick buildings and exquisite monuments, famous for its fan-shaped Campo and Il Palio horse race.
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