Agriturismo Bonello

Just driving to the farm from the main road is a quintessential Tuscan experience: The gravel road is lined with cypress trees, and offers views of rolling countryside. The apartments and rooms are located in a rustic building made of stone. The general atmosphere is that of a real country house -- this is definitely more of a farm than a hotel. The pool has a gorgeous views of the Tuscan landscape, and of the Vitaleta Chapel, a small church surrounded by cypresses that has become a Tuscan icon, often appearing in books and on postcards.

Agriturismo Bonello is on the road from San Quirico D’Orcia that leads to Pienza. The property is surrounded by the typical Tuscan countryside with hills and cultivated fields. The closest town is Pienza (less than a 10-minute drive), a village considered one of the most significant examples of Italian Renaissance architecture. The location of Bonello is a bit isolated, and some might feel like they are in the middle of nowhere; it's quiet and not too lively, but this is the very reason that many guests come here. But there are interesting destinations within driving distance. The towns of Montalcino or Montepulciano -- where some of the most famous Tuscan wines are produced -- are at less than 30 minutes away by car.

Rooms are simple, clean, and homey, with charming rustic details such as exposed brick archways, wood-beam ceilings, terra-cotta tile floors, and wrought-iron bed frames. Furniture and bathrooms are a bit plain, but perfectly functional. For those who need more space, big apartments are are available; some can host up to eight people. Apartment kitchens have burners, fridges, microwave ovens, pots and pans. A few details, such as oilcloth table covers or plastic flowers, look straight out of the home of someone's grandmother. Due to the property's environmental policies, there is no daily cleaning or towel replacement, if not expressly requested (and it costs an extra fee). Rooms have air-conditioning, but heating in the winter costs an hourly fee. Not all the rooms have views of the countryside.

The hotel has a restaurant that prepares homemade dishes with local products. It’s not always open: Dinner is served mainly during weekends. Eating here with a half-board rate is possible, but you have to book it in advance (ideally at the same time you book your room). During summer it is possible to have dinner outside, under an arbor with a view on the countryside. The smallish pool has a scenic location as well, with a view of the rolling hills and of the iconic Vitaleta Chapel in the distance.