Locanda dell'Amorosa, Sinalunga
The Locanda dell'Amorosa is a one of those magical places that our clients return to year after year. Only the privileged few can stay in this elegant Renaissance villa-cum-village, one of the most romantic locations in Tuscany. A majestic avenue of cypress trees leads you to the main gate of this hamlet that despite its extreme comfort is infact a14th century fortified farmstead (previously the home of the illustrius Piccolomini family who produced Pope Pius II). The owners Carlo and Alessandra Citterio live in a small farm house reached through a field of vines adjacent to the hotel and are on constant standby to make sure guests are being well looked after. Their old home is an idyllic cottage which is now one of the master suites of the hotel, perfect for honeymooners who want to be spoilt rotten yet feel that they are in their own little world.
One of the great joys of the hotel is that even the rooms in the lowest category are spacious and airy. Simply decorated with terracotta floors, whitewashed walls and antique furniture, the bathrooms are modern and spoiling. Some have views over the flower filled courtyard whilst others overlook the Tuscan countryside, we would be happy in either.
The restaurant is outstanding, using ingredients from the estate and locally sourced meats and cheeses,the chef creates elegant versions of Tuscan classics. The menu adapts according to the season, on our last visit in November we feasted on local game and Chiananina beef (the restaurant is in fact in the old stables) and white truffles from nearby San Giovanni d'Asso. Relaxed and informal (but not cheap) it is one of the few hotel restaurants that attract diners from outside. There is also a small enoteca (wine bar) which serves breakfast and lighter meals.
The hotel benefits from its excellent location, ideal for those who want to explore the lesser known Crete Senese-the Renaissance hill towns of Pienza (famous for Pecorino) and Montepuliciano are just a short drive away. The hotel is also not far from the outstanding Avignonesi vineyards, still privately owned by the Falvo family and producers of Italys finest vin santo. For Bellini clients in the know, we have arranged some unforgettable lunches that have lasted until dusk falls.