Hotel Palazzo del Capitano Wellness & Relais – Historic Luxury Capitano Collection

San Quirico d'Orcia is an idyllic medieval Tuscan village often appearing in photographs for its authentic regional appeal. Tucked away in the narrow streets and stone walls of a 15th century mansion property, Hotel Palazzo del Capitano offers visitors an almost surreal feeling of traveling through time. Overflowing with rosemary, lavender, jasmine, and olive trees, the Palazzo has bountiful gardens with old fountains and ponds scattered throughout.

Interior decor is upscale and classic with floral patterns, marble stairs, and wood furniture. Instead of a fully dedicated wellness area, the spa's features are scattered throughout the property. There’s a hot tub in the garden, a relaxation room with cushioned sofas and tea facilities, a couples cave made of stones, and a particularly rustic treatment area tucked away.

Hotel Palazzo del Capitano is housed within a small building that’s part of an ancient palace. Located within the medieval central neighborhood of San Quirico d'Orcia, the venue is surrounded by narrow streets and old churches. The Palazzo is within short walking distance of the restaurants, cafes, and wine shops found on the town's main strip. Montepulciano and Montalcino, both renowned for their Tuscan wines, are a 30-minute and 15-minute drive away respectively, while Pienza, a city with exemplary Renaissance architecture, is just a 13-minute drive northeast. Siena, home of the famous Il Palio horseback races and related events, can be reached in under an hour.

Because of the hotel's location within a 15th century property, all 22 of the Palazzo’s Wellness & Relais rooms are of different sizes. The gorgeous decor details vary within the four categories, but include antique furnishings, original terracotta floors, beamed ceilings, and marbled or travertine bathrooms. Classic Doubles are the most basic units, while upgrades become significantly more luxurious with Superior and Wellness Suites. The two Superior Suites have separate living spaces and original moldings or a stone staircase leading to a second level. The Romantic Wellness Suite has four-poster beds, a wood-burning fireplace, and two chromotherapy hot tubs built for two. Modern amenities include flat-screen TVs, telephones, and a minibar.

Billed as a spa and wellness hotel, the Palazzo has plenty of hot tubs but no pool. Not that it's missed, with features on hand like luxe stone treatment rooms, a relaxation reading room (complete with hot tea and comfy couches), and plenty of outdoor lounging. The spa facilities include a private couples’ cave where treatments and hot tub soaks for two can take place.

While there is a free breakfast, there’s no restaurant directly on-site. Guests can dine on traditional Tuscan dishes and sip great vinos from the wine work wall at Al Vecchio Forno, within a stone's throw of the Palazzo. (The restaurant has the same owner as the hotel.) In the nearby town square, there are also two shops -- one selling beauty products and the other gourmet foods -- that are affiliated with the hotel and where guests are given discounts. Free Wi-Fi and parking are available at the Palazzo itself along with business services. The front desk is also happy to arrange cooking classes, tours, and other activities.