Agriturismo Sant'Egle

The people working there made the stay special and went out of their way to accommodate us. We loved the homemade dinners each night, and there was plenty of simple breakfast. Be prepared to drink lots of amazing local wine. The organic farm is relaxed and unpretentious, with goats, big guard dogs, and chickens running around. It was our favorite part of the Italy trip. The rooms could use some updating, though. There were water issues and a smell that might bother anyone sensitive to it. We spent our days hiking or swimming, so that didn't take away from the experience for us.

The rustic feel of the 400-year-old building comes through in the rooms, which also have modern comforts. Each one is different, and the glamping tents offer a closer stay with nature. There's also a flexible event space for cultural gatherings or spiritual retreats. Breakfast is a nice change from the usual Italian spread, with fresh farm produce, artisan bread, and other wholesome choices to enjoy in the garden. Sant’Egle Agriturismo Biologico sits among Tuscany's "Tuff Cities," Pitigliano, Sorano, and Sovana, so it's a great base for exploring Etruscan history. The organic farm's sustainability work has earned recognition from WWF Italy, and the little gift shop sells products they make, from soothing lotions to spirulina. Erika and Alessandro, a passionate duo with experience traveling the world, have shaped the place with a clear commitment to quality living. There are plenty of ways to recharge here, from the natural saltwater pool to a Tibetan Gong Massage. A sunset dinner in the hot tub combines a wood-fired tub and Tuscan flavors under the evening sky. You can also take a wood-fired pizza-making class. In the heart of Tuscany, Sant’Egle feels like a blend of nature, luxury, and genuine local hospitality, and a stay that stays with you.

Watching the chickens was my favorite part. The property is historic and very pretty, but two ponds create lots of bugs and mosquitoes, which made it hard to enjoy the pool and outdoor areas. The room got hot and had no AC. We had two choices: leave the windows open and get bitten while the room cooled a little, or keep them shut and deal with the heat. Without cell service or wifi, it was also difficult to plan things as a foreigner. We had to go into town to find wifi and look up restaurants and activities. They gave us an old list of recommendations, but we couldn't check menus or make reservations without a connection. If you rely on modern technology, I can't recommend staying here. If you really want to disconnect from civilization, it could suit you.

Erika and Alessandro were welcoming and always ready to help, and the rooms were spotless with lots of thoughtful details. It's a peaceful little paradise in the south of Tuscany, where you can have a unique, calm stay among animals, beautiful nature, and the stars ;-) Definitely book the sunset dinner!