As I’m sure you already know, Italy is my favorite place in the world. There is just so much to see and the country has it all. As much as I am in love with the Amalfi Coast, I love Tuscany just as much in a different way. I’ve been to Florence and Tuscany a few times, but this time was extra special because I had my mom and sister with me- girl’s trip! I was so excited to be in my favorite place in the world and bring my mom this time because I never get to travel with her. She landed in Florence and went straight to meet my sister and I at the train station to take the train to Chiusi, a town in the Siena region of Tuscany. From the train station in Chiusi, we took a 20-minute taxi ride to a tiny village called Castiglioncello del Trinoro, where we pulled up to one of the most magical places in the world-Monteverdi Tuscany.
Monteverdi is a beautiful boutique hotel perched on a medieval hilltop hamlet overlooking the rolling hills of Tuscany. When we pulled up I literally felt like I was in a fairytale- it almost didn’t feel real. The charming hotel built from a medieval village centuries ago- maintaining its old century charm, yet fused with a contemporary elegance. I felt so far removed from modern day society, it almost felt like I was transported back in time and in a dream. I remember feeling so at peace and relaxed the moment I stepped foot out of that taxi.
It was raining that afternoon, but when we arrived the rain had stopped and cleared leaving the air crisp and fresh. Everything was still and quiet- you could just hear the light sounds of birds chirping. We got there around 5pm when the sun peaked out- just in time for a breathtaking sunset. Everywhere I turned looked like a painting!
We stayed in a luxury view suite, designed by a famous Italian artist. It had the most unique bed I had ever slept in, and the design concept was super cool. The bed itself has been featured in many design outlets and publications. Because the hotel was previously a village, no two rooms are the same. Each room is uniquely designed with a different theme, still maintaining Tuscan charm and elegance but with a bit of contemporary flare.
One of the highlights during our stay was taking a cooking class with the hotel’s Executive Chef Giancarla Bodoni. It was an intimate class in a gorgeous and emaculate kitchen- its doors open to the Tuscan countryside. Using only the freshest ingredients from the local region, we learned how to make traditional dishes like hand-made ricotta ravioli and pasta with fresh tomato sauce and vegetables. After cooking, we enjoyed our creations with a beautiful lunch outside with picturesque views of Tuscany and some wine. The food was to die for and our handmade pasta melted in your mouth. It was so fun to do this with my mom and sister, and Giancarla was an amazing host and chef. (You can watch this whole cooking experience on my Italy highlights on Instagram). It’s a fun activity to do with a group or significant other, and love that the hotel offered this!
The food was really delicious at Monteverdi. Aside from our cooking class lunch, we had two dinners and breakfast. Chef Giancarla takes pride in using only organic and the freshest ingredients, and you can taste it in the food. I was blown away by some of the dishes at dinner- extremely unique with its flavor combinations and presentations. Food is super important to me and the food made my experience that much more enjoyable.
Monteverdi is a beautiful escape and the perfect place for relaxation. We didn’t leave the property once during our stay- we didn’t need to. My mom and I treated ourselves to a morning spa session together which was much needed and an amazing mother/daughter experience. The spa is absolutely exquisite and we got the best massages! My mom had a long journey to get to Italy and the worst travel experience with her flights, so this relaxing getaway was the perfect way to kick off her vacation! A spa session was just what the doctor ordered.
What I like about Monteverdi is that not only is it peaceful and relaxing, it’s an intimate experience. It doesn’t have that “resort” feel packed with guests all around you. It’s so quiet and just feels like you are staying in a quaint little village, yet still upscale and luxurious at the same time. At times I felt like I had the place all to myself.
Even the hotel pool was always quiet and peaceful. It is a stunning Infiniti pool with picturesque views of forests and the hills of Val d’Orcia.
I get tons of questions everyday asking recommendations on where to stay around the world. Monteverdi Tuscany is one of the most relaxing places I’ve ever been, and a great choice to stay in Tuscany. It will always have a special place in my heart for me because I got to experience it with my mom. We only had one full day there and two nights, so I hope to return and stay for a longer time to really disconnect and relax to the fullest!
To see more of my travels and story highlights from Monteverdi, check out my Instagram @NicoleIsaacs.
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