Prologue
We came across La Saracina after a long search and booked ourselves in for a few days, quietly and without much expectation. We had anticipated many things, but not that our stay would turn into something so genuinely personal and memorable.
It is, without question, one of the most beautiful places we have ever stayed in. What stood out in particular was the warm and easy connection with the hosts – two sisters – and the quiet elegance that runs through the entire house. And that is saying something, as we are not easily impressed.
Where are we?
Set in the postcard-perfect landscape of the rolling hills of Val d’Orcia, La Saracina lies ideally between the two medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza. It feels both like a retreat and a perfect base for exploring the area. We would recommend arriving by car to make the most of the surroundings. Though, admittedly, the idea of gliding through Tuscany on a Vespa has its own appeal – even if it is not exactly around the corner for most guests.
The hosts
La Saracina brings together everything one might hope for, in a tuscan holiday. Landscape, style and a distinctly authentic family driven atmosphere.The property with its own six rooms was taken over by a local family in 1997 from an American couple who had converted the old farmhouse into one of the first Bed & Breakfasts of Val d’Orcia.
You will likely meet one of the hosts at breakfast, where they are always happy to share local recommendations.
The rooms
The rooms deserve the highest praise. There are six in total, all renovated in 2022. They all have their own independent entrance from the mediterranean garden with a private sitting area. Regardless of size, every room carries its own character and reflects the same care, precision and quiet refinement that defines the house.
The bathrooms are very spacious with big walk-in showers and thoughtfully selected courtesy products. And the linen bedding is particularly worth to mention. Made from stonewashed linen it is exceptionally soft, breathable, and naturally cool, even during the warmer days.
Culinary
In the colder months, breakfast is served by the fireplace in the glasshouse of the ancient courtyard – or in the terrace overlooking the valley, which is a feast for all the senses in every season.
It is prepared with a deep respect and love for the richness of Tuscan produce, using pure, unrefined and carefully selected ingredients. Bread, cakes and biscuits are baked daily and presented in a stylish buffet with a selection of organic jams, honeys, cheeses, cold cuts, fruits and vegetables, all sourced from local farms of the area.
We experienced each morning with a different light and a different mood.
Dinner
Once or twice a week, La Saracina brings guests together for a shared dinner, centered around traditional Italian dishes, prepared with the same attention and authenticity as the breakfast.
Garden
La Saracina sits on a plateau with sweeping, almost unreal views over the gently rolling Tuscan hills. The garden is spacious and quietly inviting – a place to spend long, unhurried hours.
Whether reading by the pool or sitting among the shade of old trees and pergolas, there are countless spots to settle into.
SPECIAL TREAT
For those looking to treat themselves, in-room massages can be arranged. We would recommend it without hesitation. La Saracina also offers private cooking classes and wine tastings and for the more active ones, foraging classes or biking and vespa tours to explore the region.
Surroundings
It is difficult to know where to begin. Tuscany, alongside Provence, remains one of our favourite regions.
La Saracina is particularly well placed: Siena and Lake Trasimeno are about an hour away, while Montepulciano and Pienza can be reached in roughly fifteen minutes, ideal for dinner outings. Wineries, restaurants and small artisan workshops are scattered throughout the surrounding area.
And yet, after a day of exploring, the best part is often returning to La Saracina.
Rates
Rooms start from 300 euros per night including breakfast for two. The apartment with its own kitchen is around €400 per night for two people including breakfast (it’s the one where we stayed and which we truly loved).
Bookings & Contacts
Podere Saracina
53026 Pienza / Tuscany
Italy
+39 0578 748022
