RELAIS SAN BRUNO
Welcoming villa at the doors of medieval Montepulciano
THINK TUSCANY, think olive greens and terracotta reds, think hilltop towns and rolling vineyards, think Montepulciano. There aren't many better places to stay than right here in the
highest of Tuscan hill towns.
Relais San Bruno is tucked below the walls of this Renaissance hilltop town, wrapped in green meadows and
overlooking the imposing Basilica of San Biagio – a lovely location away from the crowds. The dusky pink, stone villa with its pantile roof and wooden shutters is a cosy but stylish retreat; just six rooms, each with its own entrance.
Sunny colours, terracotta floors, white sofas, elegant wooden furnishings and soft lighting create a calm and quietly elegant air. Pure linen on the beds, jacuzzis in the bathroom, bowls of fruit and flowers add discreet luxury touches, and the Royal suite has its own terrace with fabulous views of the basilica.
There are shady corners in the garden,
a hammock slung between trees and a secluded swimming pool with wide open views of the Tuscan countryside. With drinks and nibbles brought to you at the pool, we were tempted to just stay put.
Hit the Spot
Just below the city walls of Montepulciano.
Bedtime
Escape to Snow White's House (La Casa di Biancaneve) in the grounds – a tiny cottage wrapped in rose trees.
Be Savvy
It's a bit of a climb up to the top of the town.
Be Smitten
Your own private villa – almost.
Al fresco living
Look forward to delicious breakfasts at Relais San Bruno. Tuck into organic home-made breads, cakes and pastries al fresco in the garden or the attractive orangery. You can retire there later with a book or a drink.
Pretty walks in the Parco della Val d’Orcia start almost from San Bruno's front door. Private vineyard tours and wine tastings can also be arranged by the friendly owners.
Relais San Bruno was reviewed for Room for Romance by
Mike North
Click on any picture to enlarge it and move through the gallery.
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Dining in
Only breakfast is served.
Dining out
Relais San Bruno is a ten minute walk from the centre of Montepulciano, where you have plenty of choice. Do make time for coffee and cakes or a glass of Vino Nobile in the atmospheric Caffè Poliziano, a wonderful art nouveau house with stunning valley views. (You can also buy great cakes to take away here). Ristorante La Grotta and Osteria dell'acquacheta are even closer to the Relais and serve excellent local fare.
Where?
The Orangery at Relais San Bruno
What’s cooking?
Late breakfast is served until 11 – giving you plenty of time for a lie-in or a swim first
Dress the part
You're in chill-out mode here
See & Do
Montepulciano is one of Tuscany's gems. An old medieval hilltop city, it boasts a feast of palazzi, churches and high-sided narrow streets. Among the must-sees is the impressive Basilica San Biago, whose huge domes dominate the hillside. If you've had your fill of history, try signing up for local cookery classes (helpful staff will assist), or pop into some of the local vineyards for wine tasting.
Shop
Stock up with some local olive oil and a couple of bottles of the renowned Vino Nobile di Montepulciano to take home.
After dark
Relax with a cool cocktail in the garden facing the Basilica San Biagio, or amble through the twilit streets of Montepulciano.
Dates
Late August
Watch the men rolling barrels in the Bravio delle Botti – a custom dating back to 1327 and part of day-long festivities.
GETTING THERE
Location
Via di Pescaia, 53045 Montepulciano
Parking
There is free guest parking
Trains
Chiusi station – 20km
Taxis
EUR 40 from the station.
Airport
Florence – 80km
Rooms and suites
Two rooms, six suites
Special features
All rooms have a fireplace, jacuzzi tub and wi-fi.
Also…
There's a swimming pool and fitness area to keep you in shape.
ESSENTIAL INFO
Rates guide
EUR 250 - 340
Open/closed
Closed from November – March
Check-in
2pm
Check-out
11am
Minimum night stay?
No
Breakfast
Buffet breakfast is served until 11am
Room service
None
Children
Welcome
Pets
No
Air conditioning
Yes
Languages
Italian and English
Wedding license?
Yes – based on exclusive hire of the property. Up to 45 guest can be catered for.
Your contact
Alberto Pavoncelli – manager