Under The Tuscan Sun

Belsentiero - Tuscany

 
 
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Tuscan Bliss

Belsentiero is a beautiful Tuscan farm house, idyllically located on the slopes of Monte Amiata, boasting panoramic views over the rolling hills and valleys of the Val d'Orcia.

This authentically Italian B&B is the perfect base from which to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and surrounds with its charming hilltop towns, cafes and restaurants, wineries, olive groves and thermal spas.

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Your Hosts

Hosts Jan and Renzo know all the hidden gems and can offer plenty of insider tips. You can even enlist Jan to be your personal tour guide if you book one of their special packages.

Evidence of their warm hospitality can be seen in the lavish compliments on their TripAdvisor reviews.

Jan is originally South African and speaks English, Italian, Dutch and Afrikaans, whilst Renzo owns the local village cafè (bar) and speaks Italian, Spanish and English.

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Suite Talk

Exclusivity is guaranteed with just five tastefully appointed suites, with super king sized beds and “views to die for” over the countryside. The rooms are unusually spacious at around 24 m² and are beautifully decorated in classical Tuscan style with terracotta floors, rugs and high ceilings to provide a bright yet cosy space. All rooms boast private, ensuite bathrooms, air-conditioning, large closet, spacious writing desk as well as a mini bar and tea and coffee making facilities. They also have flat-screen TVs and complimentary WiFi.

Hidden Gems of Tuscany

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So much to explore…

The best way to immerse yourself in “all things Tuscan” is to engage all senses...

Picturesque Panoramas …
Take in the picture-perfect scenery with its endless hills and valleys of green - with winding roads lined with magnificent cyprus trees. 

Discover medieval villages surrounded by fields of golden grain, ancient abbeys tucked away amidst the sunflowers.

We recommend hiring a car to explore the region properly - but be sure to also head out on foot or by bike if you get the opportunity so that you can truly soak up the scenery. 

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Wining and Dining …
 Belsentiero offer a week-long Tuscan Food & Wine Experience which includes all transport with an English guide, some incredible activities including two authentic Tuscan cooking lessons (including pasta!), visits to a number of wineries for tastings in the renowned Brunello and Montepulciano wine regions - and Italy’s best gelato!

Perfumes of Pecorino …
Pienza is famous for its pecorino sheep's cheese – probably Italy’s oldest and best loved cheese!  Visit a local farm and assault your senses with the heady scent of this flavoursome cheese.

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Sounds of Silence … 
Watch a few of Jan’s Instagram tours of the Belsentiero gardens and you will be intoxicated by the sounds of the birds singing and bees buzzing amongst the lavender.  A more peaceful spot would be hard to find!

All the feels …

What could be more decadent than relaxing in the hot tub with a glass of prosecco or cooling off in the pool while Jan lights the braai and cooks up a feast? Watching the sunset and seeing the stars start to twinkle above.

There are also incredible natural thermal springs in the area if you fancy a rejuvenating spa day. Both Bagno Vignoni and Bagni San Filippo offer incredible volcanic/thermal pools.

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Facilities

Belsentiero means “beautiful path” and is surrounded by 10 hectares of beautifully manicured private gardens with lush green rolling lawns, oak and lemon trees and intoxicating scents of lavender and rosemary.

There is also an impressive kitchen garden where they grow their own fresh produce. Although only breakfast is included in the rate, delicious al fresco lunches and dinners can be arranged. Jan, thanks to his African roots, also knows his way around a BBQ/braai - plus there’s a gorgeous wine cellar to indulge in!

One of the real “wow” factors of this property is its expansive covered verandah at the bottom of the garden overlooking the valley - complete with comfortable seating, a dining area and an inviting hot tub! It’s the perfect spot to unplug and relax with a good book and a glass of wine.

There is also a fabulous infinity pool to cool off in the summer months.

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When to Visit

Tuscany is stunning all year round - but there are some special occasions and local events you might want to catch…

April
Pienza Processione degli Scalzi on Good Friday

May
Mille Miglia vintage car rally

August
The Ravioli festival in Contignano
The Bravio delle botti wine barrel race

September
”il Gioco del Cacio al fuso” - compete to roll a Pecorino cheese closest to the pole.

October
The Chestnut Festival
The Olive Oil harvest

December
Christmas market in Montepulciano and bonfires in Abbadia on Christmas eve

For a full list of special events, festivals and short stay ideas please visit Packages

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Access to Belsentiero

BelSentiero is located almost equi-distant from the airports of Pisa, Florence, Perugia and Rome.   

It is roughly a 2.5 hour drive from Rome Fiumicino or Florence and hiring a car is recommended so that you are able to explore the countryside at leisure.

Free parking is available.

Road transfers can also be arranged.

Book Your Stay

Book online here.

Rates are €150 per suite per night (so roughly £60 per person per night sharing including breakfast!) but watch out for offers on their social media pages.

Breakfast is a scrumptious continental or buffet breakfast which is included in the rate.

Discounts apply for long stays.

Don’t Forget…
If you quote “Umlingo” when you book your stay Jan and Renzo will ensure there is a lovely surprise gift on arrival. Just a little added dash of magic in the spirit of Ubuntu (community) for supporting a sustainable, small South African owned and run business.