Delving Into Tuscany
Once we hit the mainland after our recent Sardinia and Corsica trip, it was our mission to travel through the rural Tuscan Countryside avoiding the big cities. You almost certainly need to take advantage of a car rental. This way you can appreciate this area, unless you want to stay at a single location. As we traveled from west Tuscany to the east and more southerly parts of the region we stopped at some incredible hotels, each with their own allure. Read on as we continue delving into Tuscany.
Il Bottaccio
Nestled in an amazing location in the foothills, yet minutes from the beautiful beaches of Forte dei Marmi, this boutique hotel is a haven of tranquility. This is a Relais & Chateaux property with intriguing works of art everywhere you look. The chef, Nino, is a wonderful personality whose warmth and entertaining nature makes you feel at home. Additionally, this hotel can arrange trips to the Carrara marble quarries, Cinque Terre, Lucca and Pietrasanta. Definitely a hidden gem with access to many points of interest.
Castelfalfi - Tuscany
We were excited for this stop on our trip and it didn’t disappoint. You can choose from private villas or more traditional luxury hotel rooms. The beauty of this resort is that it is integrated into the village of Castelfalfi and there is so much to do here. From Tuscany’s largest golf course to truffle hunting. Additionally, they have an adventure park and kids club, and not to mention the world class spa. With so much to do on property you might not want to leave. However, if you do San Gimignano, Volterra and Florence are all close by.
Como Castello De Nero
Still delving into Tuscany, a change of pace for our next stop. This traditional 12th century Tuscan castle exudes peace, tranquility and luxury with warm hospitality. The Shambhala wellness facilities are a big draw here with indoor and outdoor thermal pools, steam room and sauna, a full suite of spa services. The hotel offers complimentary shuttle services every other day to Florence and Siena. Many other activities can arranged as well. These include wine tasting in the famous Chianti region, and also special events such as the upcoming Bocelli Experience in July.
Borgo 69/Villa Fontelunga - Tuscany
Very different from traditional resorts and hotels, these are two properties owned and run by an incredible couple who you will encounter during your stay. Borgo 69 is a collection of villas with a private pool and a farm to table restaurant. The villas are self contained so you can be as private as you like or take advantage of the facilities at the restaurant. Villa Fontelunga is close by and is a boutique hotel set in an historic Tuscan villa. There is very much a family vibe here where you are welcomed and immediately feel part of the community. These properties are a great choice for families who want to explore this part of Tuscany.
Il Falconiere
Before heading to Rome, we reached our most southwestern point in Tuscany. We were close to the town of Cortona, made famous by the book and movie, Under the Tuscan Sun. We started in a Relais & Chateaux property and here we ended in another. Owner and head chef Silvia Baracchi oversees the high standards of the property, none more so that in the renowned Michelin starred restaurant. Silvia also hosts cooking classes on the property and wine tastings can also be arranged with the well known Barrachi wines. The rooms are also decorated in a traditional Tuscan luxury fashion.
Each of our stops was very different yet all were incredibly enjoyable. One of the biggest things we learned is just how diverse the experiences and accommodations could be within the Tuscany region. If anything it deepened our love for this part of the world and we would recommend it to anyone for most any purpose. Please let us know if you would like to learn more about either the area or these properties. Or even better if you would like us to plan an itinerary in Tuscany.
