Lupaia

Both remote and accessible, Lupaia is only 4 kilometres north of beautiful Montepulciano, yet is cocooned by the rolling green valleys and cypress trees of Tuscany’s most classic landscapes.

Exposed ceiling beams painted soft greys, a jumble of unique headboards, stencilled chartreuse walls and wardrobes and heirloom mirrors - the handful of rooms and suites at Lupaia are unendingly boutique and romantic. Spread out amongst five ancient, ivy-covered farmhouses, each offers a lot of privacy and space, as well as its own terrace or garden.

Each room is unique, from the Aurora, which is so named because its gardens overlook the sunrise, to the intimate Bassa, named for its low and chunky ceiling beams ('bassa' means 'low' in Italian) - for those who like a bit of swaddling, book the  Bassa for its cosy atmosphere. It has a gorgeous green and yellow mosaic bathroom, views that look out towards Montefollonico and an elegant chaise longue capped by green and blue silk cushions.

You will be welcomed with delicious smells of freshly-brewed coffee, homemade fruit tarts and cakes, and a fine selection of cheeses and meats. In the warmer months, dine al fresco for breakfast and dinner, surrounded by the fragrant gardens. Lunch can be enjoyed on the patio, or if you don't want to move from the bliss of the infinity pool, call for lunch to be delivered to you poolside. On cooler spring or autumnal days, dine by the warmth of the roaring fire in the traditional dining room, and watch as your meal is expertly created in the open-plan kitchen. 

Though the menu changes every day, you can expect delicious traditional Tuscan dishes and classic Italian favourites made with ingredients from the organic gardens and nearby local markets, including olive oil made from the hotel’s own olive groves.

Surrounded by white umbrellas and sun loungers, the infinity pool overlooks miles of lush Tuscan countryside, where you can spot deer frolicking in the grass. For ultimate relaxation, unwind in the infinity Jacuzzi pool, perfect for relaxing in after truffle hunting in the autumn. 

At Lupaia, enjoy a cooking class, a picnic in a secluded part of the gardens or a romantic sunset Negroni experience. For another perfect romantic occasion, indulge in a private dinner in the gardens, complete with glowing lanterns nestled in the trees. 

Venture into nearby Montepulciano and explore its ancient squares and narrow streets, making sure to treat yourself to a glass of the famous red vino nobile. Sample the local vino on a wine tour at one of the many local wineries, or borrow a mountain bike and pedal along the quiet country tracks.

We also recommend visiting the nearby Podere Il Casale farm. Set on a hill, it has spectacular views over the Val d'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by 5,000 olive trees and nearly 10 acres of vineyards, the farm produces its own cheese, olive oils, wines and vegetables. You can take part in a farm tour, a cooking class or a cheese-making destination - or simply visit for lunch and look out over the fields where iconic scenes in the movie Gladiator were filmed.