Tuscan Escape

The Tuscan villa, a unique blend of terracotta walls and blue shutters, stands out in the landscape, surrounded by olive trees and the sprawling countryside. Its distinct architecture and serene location make it a perfect getaway.

Classically furnished

Whilst classically furnished each room in the villa is meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort and convenience. The soft linen ensures a restful sleep, and the view of the mist-laden countryside from the windows is truly enchanting. While not all rooms offer this view, each one is tastefully decorated and equipped with all the amenities for a relaxing stay.

Breakfast is provided and laid out in the kitchen as in a friend’s villa. The soft, easy sounds of morning jazz were accompanied by the smell of the day’s cake baking in the oven as I came down the stairs for breakfast. The tinkering sounds of breakfast filled the room, and I delved into various pastries, coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice and eggs. And there, overlooking that incredible view, we sat and ate breakfast.

Having been in Florence for three days, which,  hasten to add, is only an hour’s drive away, we were ready to relax by the pool. The pool and hot tub are carved into the landscape as an antidote to the Italian summer sun. The pool is approached by a lavender walk through the olives, down some steps into a mini oasis. The water feature punctuates the end of the pool with a constant trickling sound of water. There is a small hot tub formed out of stone and comfy sun beds and umbrellas to lounge away for a few hours. The bees are in their heyday buzzing through the lavender and so was this Queen B.

For lunch, you have the option to dine on the terrace or at the villa’s sister restaurant up the lane. The food, prepared with simplicity and finesse, is a true delight. It is often accompanied by the villa’s olive oil, freshly pressed from their olive groves, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.

Italian Summer Sun

Twice a week, the owners extend a warm invitation to all guests for a delightful dinner party. This was the primary allure that drew me to this establishment. As a group of four adults, we relished the opportunity to engage in lively conversations with fellow guests. We found ourselves lingering over coffee and liqueurs well into the night, engrossed in animated discussions under the starlit sky, with only the gentle hum of the cicadas to punctuate our conversations. These engaging social events are sure to leave you feeling excited and intrigued.

The owners of Fortelunga have meticulously crafted a sanctuary of serenity and balance. Bruno, in his own words, described it as a hotel, striving earnestly not to be a hotel. If you’re yearning for an experience that transcends the typical hotel stay, and instead offers the seclusion and intimacy of a private villa, then this could very well be your paradise, a place where tranquillity is the norm.

Fortelunga is found at Via Ponte al Ramo 69,52045

Pizza Della Chiana

Tel: +39 0575 660410