My wife and I are looking for lodging in the Tuscan countryside in the province of Siena (perhaps near Montepulciano, Montalcino, Pienza . . .). We'd like to be in the country, yet walking distance from a town or village with a cafe or restaurant. We will have a car for touring, but we'd like not to have to drive for every meal. Any recommendations?
Grazie!!!
Have a look at Agriturismo Marciano in Siena. It's about a 10-minute drive from the walled portion of Siena but it feels very remote and secluded. It's a perfect base from which to take day trips via car. You can read all the wonderful reviews on-line. We stayed there twice and thoroughly enjoyed it both times. They offer incredible optional dinners which are not to be missed. We drove around during the day and visited various towns and then enjoyed returning to the farmhouse in the evening for their incredible dinners. it was nice not to have to go out again and find a restaurant for dinner and not to have to worry about drinking and driving. If you wish to go into the historical center of Siena, you can easily take a taxi. The farmhouse itself is very comfortable and relaxing and the hosts are very gracious and accommodating. It's a wonderful experience if you are lucky enough to secure a reservation as they book far in advance. Also, if you're interested in a cooking lesson, they offer an afternoon class in which you get to make several of the dishes served at dinner that night. Happy travels!
We stayed at Borgo Casato in Castelnuovo Berardegna for four nights in May -- about a half hour to 45 minute drive to Siena, restful and beautiful views of Tuscan hillsides from the terrace for breakfast or dinner, or just lounging around the pool. If you go, ask for directions! GPS sent us on a convoluted scenic backroads route when there was a faster route using highways.
