As we drove alongside the hills of Tuscany, passing by olive orchards and wineries, the true allure of the Italian countryside unfolded before our eyes. Our ultimate destination awaited: an awe-inspiring sanctuary tucked away in the picturesque landscape of Tuscany.
Welcome to Fontanelle Estate, an idyllic retreat designed for travellers seeking the authentic essence of Italian Dolce Vita. Nestled in the heart of Tuscanian countryside, between Siena and Florence, the estate captures the perfect blend of rustic charm and refined elegance.
The property encompasses two remarkable accommodations: The Club House, a five-star luxury hotel designed for adults, opened in 2022, and Hotel Le Fontanelle, a five-star hotel opened in 2006. Additionally, spanning over 107 hectares, Vallepicciola stands as the estate’s expansive winery.
Both Hotel Le Fontanelle and The Club House are conveniently located within walking distance of each other. However, to provide guests with additional convenience and comfort, there is a shuttle service available. This service ensures that guests can easily explore the property, especially when it comes to dining options.
CHECKING IN:The Club House
As we arrived at The Club House, our dream stay in Tuscany, we were transported into a realm where dreams effortlessly transform into reality.
Our check-in at The Club House was flawlessly smooth, where the staff surpassed our expectations with their remarkable level of assistance. They graciously provided us with a brief tour of the premises before escorting us to our splendid room. Their genuine hospitality truly enhanced our arrival experience.
Our suite exuded an intimate ambiance adorned with elements of classic Tuscan style. Its dĂ©cor reflected a perfect balance of simple yet refined elegance, creating a captivating atmosphere that embraced us with warmth and charm. The hotel welcomes their guest with a bottle of the region’s renowned Chianti Classico, encapsulating the true essence of the region. The bathroom deserves a special mention, as it was absolutely stunning, featuring a freestanding tub and a ceiling window overlooking the sky.
The pool and the wellness sanctuary
To fully immerse yourself and find relaxation, The Club House offers The Wellness Sanctuary, a blissful haven that encompasses an indoor swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, tepidarium with salt mist, sauna, experiential showers, ice fountain, mountain shower-Kneipp therapy and wellness lounge. This space is designed for purification and rediscovery, allowing guests to rejuvenate both their body and mind.
The outdoor swimming pool, with its breathtaking view of the Tuscan hills, offers a serene setting to unwind and find tranquility.
The fine dining cuisine
In addition to its stunning location, Fontanelle Estate is renowned for its exceptional gourmet cuisine and exceptional wine tastings. It was an absolute delight to indulge in the genuine flavors and culinary masterpieces that beautifully captured the essence of Italy.
Within the estate of the two hotels, three distinguished restaurants await:
- Osteria Il Tuscanico, located at The Club House, offers a delightful selection of typical Tuscan delicacies.
- Il Visibilio, also situated at The Club House, presents a gourmet dining experience with a blind tasting menu carefully crafted by Chef Daniele Canella in collaboration with the esteemed 2-Michelin Star Chef, Giuseppe Iannotti.
- La Colonna, found within Hotel Le Fontanelle, provides a refined gourmet dining experience, showcasing contemporary culinary creations.
During our dinner at Osteria Il Tuscanico, we had the pleasure of savoring Tuscan classics prepared with remarkable flair. The homemade pastas, local cheeses, regional wines, and the indulgent tiramisu were the highlights of the evening, offering a truly memorable dining experience.
One of the standout moments of my experience was the exceptional dining at La Colonna, named after the majestic ancient stone column that grace its center. The dinning was a culinary journey that blended contemporary flair with classic flavours. I indulged in dishes crafted with the utmost care and creativity, where the quality of the raw ingredients shone through each bite. It was a true feast for the senses.
Activities
In the enchanting embrace of the Tuscany countryside, each day is an invitation to savor a state of infinite tranquility. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the serenity that permeates every corner of this remarkable retreat, allowing your worries to melt away as you find solace in the embrace of nature. Time becomes your ally here, creating a space where you can fully immerse yourself in the present moment and embrace the harmonious blend of relaxation and serenity.
The days unfold gracefully, offering a slow and beautiful rhythm. Whether you choose to bask in the sun by the pool, embark on a wine tasting journey, or explore the captivating region, each activity becomes an exquisite way to spend your time at this beautiful property.
Moreover, the hidden gem of Tuscany, Siena, is a mere 20-minute drive away, and we thoroughly enjoyed discovering the beauty of this enchanting city during our stay.
Fontanelle Estate captured my heart with its timeless charm and impeccable hospitality. It is a retreat that embraced the essence of Tuscany, weaving together history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. My memories of this idyllic haven will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Pat says
Do you recall about how far of a walk The Clubhouse was from the Hotel Le Fontanelle? Thank you!
Oana says
We took the hotel shuttle, but I think it was around a 10-minute walk from The Clubhouse to Hotel Le Fontanelle.