Podere Dionora

WITH ITS PICTURE-BOOK HILLTOP SETTING, Podere Dionora encapsulates Tuscany’s tranquil wine country to a T.

A sturdy stone farmhouse sat at the end of a lane flanked with cypress trees and vineyards, this little Tuscan Eden is set in captivating countryside with views. Don’t be surprised to come across deer and rabbits if you wander through the woods, scented with broom in springtime and carpeted with wild mushrooms in autumn.

There’s a large and elegant salon with a fireplace where you can curl up with a book and a glass of local wine in the cooler months. In summer, you’re more likely to be draped around the pool, admiring those quintessential Tuscan views.

There are just six rooms here – all different, all comfortable and all beautifully decorated. They have beamed ceilings, wrought iron beds and polished wooden furniture. Spacious bathrooms come with indulgent jacuzzi baths and even private sauna cabins.

Sunflowers and sunsets

Delicious breakfasts are served in the sunny, glass-walled limonaia next to the pool, with its wide-open views. In summer, you can munch beneath the flower-shaded pergola outside.

The surroundings, fields of sunflowers and spectacular sunsets (best enjoyed with a glass of prosecco) are what make Dionora extra special. From here, you can follow roads that lead to some of Tuscany’s best known wine towns – notably Montepulciano, home of the famous vino nobile – Montalcino and historic Pienza. While you can be immersed in Tuscan tranquillity here, all are within easy reach.

Manager Giulio – for whom nothing, it seems. Is too much trouble – wins heaps of plaudits from guests. He’ll be happy to help you plan outings, book restaurants and get the max out of your stay.

Wine and olive oil are produced on the estate using time-honoured traditional methods, and you are sure to sample both during your stay. Be sure to book early – rooms at this little gem are often bagged early by adoring returning guests.

© Room for Romance