Tenuta di Ricavo, Tuscany

Location

Exactly halfway between Florence and Siena, A cluster of stone cottages, a church and a large manor house. From the outside, Tenuta di Ricavo still looks very much like it would have done in the 11th century, when this walled hamlet halfway between Siena and Florence was built. A family passion has been conserved it's thanks to the Scotoni family, who purchased the then almost derelict property back in 1947. Years of meticulous restoration work were necessary before the hamlet could be transformed into what is now one of Chianti's best-loved holiday resorts.

Accommodation

Exposed stone walls, floors paved with time-worn terracotta, massive ceiling beams, wrought iron beds and the occasional antique: Tenuta di Ricavo's individually decorated bedrooms and apartments have all the features of Tuscany's traditional country homes. the "Renaissance room" which, as the name suggests, is decorated in authentic renaissance style, or the "Suite cottage" with private terrace and Jacuzzi.

Dining

The bread and pasta are homemade, the seasonal fruit and vegetables are home grown or purchased from the local markets and the wine is likely to be some of the best you'll ever drink - you're in Chianti, after all! La Pecora Nera restaurant serves typical Tuscan cuisine along with more refined menus. Breakfast is served in the grand hall and offers a range of bread, cured meat and cheese varieties, homemade tarts and croissants provide sweet options.

Facilities

Set in 445 acres of protected nature park, Tenuta di Ricavo enjoys marvelous views over the gently undulating hills of Chianti from each and every corner of the estate.

After a morning spent exploring the villages and vineyards of Chianti, return to Tenuta di Ricavo and while way the hottest hours of the day in the resort's peaceful gardens, snoozing in the shade of the ancient olive and cypress trees or soaking up the Tuscan sun by one of the two swimming pools. Tenuta also has a small gym, library and TV room, and a bar serving cocktails, snacks and drinks throughout the day and late into the evening.