L'orto di Hans

The stay fell apart at check-in. I’d booked through Booking for a room with two separate beds and a kitchenette, but the blonde woman with blue glasses handed me keys to a room with one double bed and no kitchenette. She said the room I’d reserved wasn’t available, even though the property seemed empty in the off season. Her manner came across as if she didn’t want guests, and she was unpleasant and didn’t smile. She also spoke no language other than Italian. After we argued, we agreed to cancel. She contacted Booking and I got my money back. I then had to book somewhere else at the last minute, and found a much better place with a very kind owner. Honestly, Orto de Hans should close if they don’t want to have guests.

The children had a great time playing in the park, and I really respect that the owners kept guests away from the animals so they wouldn’t be stressed. That alone earns this place my respect. The location is very scenic. We visited for Easter Monday lunch with my family, two friends, and their child, and the food was a much more uneven part of the day. The staff added a lot to the experience. Everyone was very nice and professional. When mint leaves turned up in the tagliatelle ai carciofi without being listed on the menu, the woman serving us apologized and offered another dish or a replacement without mint. I appreciated that. The menu needs more ingredient detail, though. The kids’ pasta al pomodoro, arrosticini, and porchetta were really tasty, while the cheese pasta rolls and baked potatoes had no flavor. It was a bit of a roller coaster. I’d rate the service 7 ½. Atmosphere and setting get a 7: the owners clearly put a lot of passion into the place, but shabby chic doesn’t feel right for the Italian countryside to me. We only saw the restaurant, and the furniture and service facilities seemed average. The food menu gets a 5, mainly for the missing details, and the bill a 5 ½. Prices felt high compared with similar places elsewhere in the region.

The countryside setting and all the nature around it made this such a relaxing place. Everything at l’orto di Hans felt thoughtfully done, and our room was cozy, beautiful, and extremely clean. We stayed for three nights after my boyfriend came over from London, and ended up eating at the restaurant every day. It has a lovely atmosphere, a rich menu, and wonderful wine. The family serving us were beautiful. Letizia was professional from the start and check-in was prompt. We celebrated my boyfriend’s birthday there, and Letizia brought out a cake while everyone sang to him. We also brought our Australian Shepard, who loved it too. It’s a great base for driving around, and we’ll be back soon. We recommend it for all ages.

We had a fresh, tasty meal cooked by Letizia, the owner and chef. The staff were so friendly. It’s a lovely country restaurant set among hills, olive trees, and nut trees, with a peaceful, scenic feel. We hope to return!