Tuscan Villas, Wines & Cuisine - September 6-12, 2009

The Hotel Dei Capitani is in a unique position between two valleys Orcia and Arbia on one side and the historic Montalcino with its winding streets and its small houses on the other. The building originates from the 1700's although it is thought to date back even earlier than this when it was supposed to have been used as a refuge for the inhabitants of Siena escaping from the Florentine army; hence the name of 'Hotel of the Captains'.

Rooms are all styled with 'Poor Art' furnishings, telephone, satellite TV, safe, mini-bar, air-conditioning and private bathroom equipped with hair-dryer. Free internet access is available. The swimming pool's shape is inspired by the old 'Fontone medioevale' (medieval fountain) is located within the large garden. Breakfast is a delight on the pretty terrace with stunning views over the valleys.

"The building dates back to 1400 and is one of the oldest in the historic centre of San Quirico D'Orcia,built by "the noble family Biringucci. "There is a large garden amongst lavender and aromatic herbs in the shade of vines and ancient olive trees.

"The restaurant is in a welcoming atmosphere of the internal room or under the shade of olive trees, where "guests can enjoy typical dishes based on traditional recipes.

"All rooms have private bathroom with bathtub/shower, minibar, safe, hairdryer, Satellite TV, airconditioning, "telephone direct lines. "Other amenities include wireless internet connection in common areas, Spa center.

The Hotel Relais "Cloister of Pienza" is situated in the heart of Pienza, a Renaissance city planned by Rossellino - following the will of Pope Pio II. The entrance is located at the back of the austere white cloister that gives the hotel its name and on to which half the rooms look; the other half face away, over the serenely magnificent hills of Val d’Orcia.

This stylishly converted 15th century monastery has retained many of the original features of the monks’ cells: frescoed, vaulted ceilings and tiled floors. The furniture, however, breaks with monkish antiquity and concentrates on modern comfort without spoiling the character of the building.

Rooms include ensuite bathroom with shower or bath, hair-dryer, direct phone line, satellite TV, minibar and safe. The sitting rooms, with their old beamed ceilings, and the restaurant lead on to a delightful terrace garden, where a pool has recently been built.