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 – three sisters – as well as the calm, understated Wabi-Sabi aesthetic that runs through the rooms and 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 Val d’Orcia, La Saracina lies ideally between 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 six rooms, was taken over by the family in 1997 and is now run by the three sisters Simonetta, Laura and Gabriella.
Simonetta, the eldest, originally built up La Saracina. She now lives in Abu Dhabi with her Dutch husband, returning regularly, especially when long-standing guests are visiting. Her Dutch influence is subtly reflected in the interior design.
Gabriella, the youngest, manages the house on site. You will likely meet her at breakfast, where she is always happy to share local recommendations.
The middle sister and the parents contribute more quietly from behind the scenes. Their nearby farm supplies La Saracina with fresh produce. And then there is Oscar, the Cocker Spaniel – an unhurried, quietly charming presence whose favourite pastime seems to involve appropriating guests’ reading material, encouraging a slower pace of life.
The rooms
The rooms deserve the highest praise. There are six in total, all renovated in 2022 in a Wabi-Sabi style with a subtle Dutch touch. They feel calm, comfortable, and thoughtfully put together.
The bathrooms are spacious, and small details, such as Grown Alchemist products, are carefully considered. The linen bedding is particularly worth mentioning: soft, breathable, and pleasantly cool even on warmer days.
Breakfast
In the colder months, breakfast is served in a cosy room with a fireplace. During summer, it naturally moves outdoors onto the terrace overlooking the greenery.
Each room has its own table, and the daily selection of breakfast items is arranged throughout the space. Every morning includes a freshly baked cake, which is as simple as it is delicious.
A small note: once a week, the hosts prepare a shared dinner for all guests. You simply sign up and join. The menu? Italian classics, as one would hope.
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 cypress trees, there are countless spots to settle into. For children, the grounds feel almost park-like, offering plenty of space to explore and play.
SPECIAL TREAT
For those looking to treat themselves, in-room massages can be arranged. We would recommend it without hesitation.
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
The apartment with its own kitchen, including breakfast, is around €400 per night for two people (it’s the one where we stayed and which we truly loved). The standard rooms are more affordable.
Bookings & Contacts
Podere Saracina
53026 Pienza / Tuscany
Italy
+39 0578 748022
