Tuscany trip report: wine towns and coastal resorts
Published 01 September 2019
Visit the wine towns and exclusive coastal resorts of Tuscany
One of our Personal Travel Specialists visited Tuscany to witness for herself what makes each aspect of the region particularly popular, and to visit some of our new and much-loved hotels.
Read on to hear our personal travel specialist's own opinions of Tuscany, to discover more of what the region has to offer, and to view our recommended hotels.
“Tuscany is one of Italy’s most treasured regions, and offers delights for every type of traveller; from the famed art galleries of Florence, to the rolling vineyards of Montalcino, the forested hills of Chianti, and the dramatic coast of Porto Ercole. My recent visit to Tuscany allowed me to explore beyond the region’s capital and get to know our hotels, which capture the true essence of Tuscan life.”
Chianti
“Sitting between Florence and Siena, the Chianti Classico wine region is one of the most beautiful areas I have visited. Small roads weave between the patchwork of green fields and pockets of forest, leading you from village to village. Our hotels in this region are historical buildings and converted villages that have been lovingly restored to give guests a home-from-home experience amongst the vineyards.”
The villages of Chianti are close to both Florence and Pisa, which make for convenient entrances into Italy by air. Both cities have their own iconic attractions: the Torre Pendente of Pisa and the distinctive domed roof of Florence’s cathedral. Perhaps also visit the Accademia Gallery in Florence, where Michelangelo’s original ‘David’ is housed. Florence’s historic rival, Siena, is home to a grand, hauntingly unfinished Duomo and a triangular piazza on which a world-famous Palio is hosted. Some of the most well-known Chianti villages include San Gimignano, Volterra, and Monteriggioni. In San Gimignano, marvel at the many towers; in Volterra, explore Etruscan architecture and Roman ruins; in Monteriggioni, take in the views of the original mediaeval walls. At estates all across the region, you can sample some of the famous red Chianti Classico wines.
Montalcino
“Montalcino is situated in southern Tuscany, perched on a hilltop, overlooking miles upon miles of agricultural land and vineyards. It is a quintessentially Tuscan wine town, and embodies the blend of history and rural peacefulness that the region is known for. The same Sangiovese grapes populate the vineyards of this exclusive wine region, while the higher altitude and dry climate also give birth to the Brunello variety.”
Just as much as in Chianti, a stay in Montalcino is an opportunity to taste some of Italy’s finest wines. Rich Brunello wines are the most popular to come out of Montalcino, and can be tasted at the Fortezza di Montalcino, a castle that stands at the highest point of the town, reached by a long set of steps. Consider also visiting the Castello Romitorio for wine-tastings, as well as tours of the estate grounds, the farmhouse, the fortress, and on-site art gallery. On a Sunday, visit the Abbazia di Sant’Antimo to witness the Gregorian chant mass, and stay for a while after to wander around this huge Benedictine monastery, which dates back to the Late Classical era. We would recommend following the pattern of the surrounding landscape on foot, by bike, or by car, to really get a feel for the majesty of the area. You may stumble across a private wine estate, shady olive groves, or a golf course.
Porto Ercole
“Leave mainland Tuscany behind and drive across the narrow spit of land that links you to Monte Argentario and the town of Porto Ercole. The scenery here is that of green hills rising straight up from the blue Mediterranean, where yachts and dinghies float around the ports and beaches.”
Porto Ercole has a wholly unique and enchanting location: accessible by car across the strait of Orbetello, but with the exclusive feel and serenity of a private island. Time and time again, it proves to be a stunning example of the beauty of the Tuscan Coast, which calls clients back year after year. To take in the views across the eponymous port and Monte Argentario itself, walk up to Fort Stella. On your way down, navigate the Borgo Antico, taking in the narrow, cobbled streets and quaint houses. From the Piazza Santa Barbara, walk up 80 steps to the Church of Sant Erasmo, where the body of Caravaggio is said to have been laid to rest. For the pleasures of a conventional beach holiday, with the luxury Porto Ercole twist, visit the Spaggia della Feniglia and Riva del Marchese beaches, to relax on the sand, swim in the sea, and enjoy some snorkelling.
Villa le Barone, Chianti
Our favourite Chianti property, the four-star Villa le Barone is an ivy-covered house owned by the charming Count and Countess Aloisi de Larderel, which sits on top of a small, picturesque hill. The Countess herself showed Georgie around the hotel. The guestrooms are scattered throughout the three buildings, and a homely bar in the main house gives the hotel the feel of a private country manor. Outside, a walk through the beautiful gardens reveals tennis courts, a candlelit terrace, and the stunning infinity pool that looks out over the surrounding hills. This is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the charm of this area. Prices from £960 per person for 7 nights, flights, and hire car.
Castello Banfi, Montalcino
A golden-hued castle complex set amidst sloping vineyards, the Castello Banfi has been producing the finest wines in the area since 1978, and today offers timeless luxury in Il Borgo – a medieval hamlet next to the Castello di Poggio alle Mura. With just 14 rooms, Il Borgo provides luxurious accommodation in the heart of a 7,100-acre estate. The surrounding region is open, and the panoramic view from the hotel’s pool terrace takes in olive groves, fruit orchards, fields, and woodland. All guests are treated to a complimentary bottle of the estate’s wine in their room upon arrival, and a welcome wine-tasting in the enoteca adds a special touch. The Castello Banfi is an essential destination for any lovers of Italian wine, and guests are encouraged to get involved with hands-on cookery classes, hiking, cycling, and visits to both Montalcino town and Siena. Prices from £1,660 per person for 7 nights, flights, and car hire.
Il Pellicano, Porto Ercole
Il Pellicano is a quiet five-star retreat hidden away in a remote corner of the Monte Argentario island. Cut into the cliffs, this exclusive resort is a haven of tranquillity, with stunning views, luxurious rooms, and friendly staff on-hand to help with your slightest whim. At the base of the cliff, a sun terrace with loungers allows guests to sun-bathe, before taking a dip in the sea; while, at the top, a beautiful pool terrace seems to sit at the edge of the world. All of the bright, sophisticated rooms come with a terrace or balcony, and the sea views make the most of this beautiful location. Prices from £1,690 per person for 7 nights, flights, and hire car.
Why not combine these three hotels in an in-depth tour of this iconic region?
Spend three nights at each hotel, with bed and breakfast, scheduled British Airways flights, and a hire car. Prices from £2,980 per person.
