Follonico

Although the Tuscan farmhouse that owners Suzanne Simons and Fabio Firli have converted into this six-room bed-and-breakfast dates back to the ninth century, any residual medieval gloom has long since been excised, making room for contemporary minimalist décor and spacious rooms awash in natural light. Surrounded by typical Tuscan countryside — and typical, when it means cypresses, sheep pastures, and olive groves, is no criticism — Follonico offers a subdued, pastoral alternative to the vineyard boutiques and touristy guesthouses that dot the region. And if a peaceful retreat is what you’re after, Follonico’s modest scale is a blessing rather than a limitation.

The interior of this stone farmhouse contains four suites of varied design, with common thematic elements like exposed ceiling beams and cool terra cotta tiled floors to unify the proceedings. Quaint wooden furnishings are contemporary in profile, and modern comforts like free internet and a pillow menu keep rustic overload safely at bay. That’s not to say that traditional rural elements are entirely absent — the doors and some of the wall hangings are well-weathered pieces of salvaged wood. More recently, two rooms have been added, each with its own private terrace, as well as a lovely salt-water infinity pool.

Daily brunch is an ample spread of local jams and homemade pastries. If you fancy an expanded menu for lunch and dinner, you’ll have to drive to Siena, or explore the closer hilltop villages of Montepulciano and Montefollonico. This kind of isolation isn’t for everyone, but if you can set aside the expectations of having everything at your fingertips, Follonico offers a rare sort of throwback luxury.

How to get there:
Follonico is approximately one hour from Perugia Sant'Egidio Airport (PEG).