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Ever wanted to ditch real life and run away to the Tuscan countryside? We’ve found the perfect place to do just that. Bid farewell to friends, family and significant others before pitching up at the luscious L’Andana. Set amongst vineyards and olive groves, and with rolling mountains in the distance, this historic hotel has an exclusive-feeling energy, which makes sense – the main building was the summer gaff of Grand Duke Leopold II in the mid 1800s. It remains deeply regal – as well as the sprawling grounds, dotted with roses and rosemary, there are three pools, a classy spa and a Michelin star restaurant.
Why stay at L'Andana?
Come here for a peaceful stay with a hint of Godfather-worthy majesty. First impressions count for a lot, and the one made by L’Andana is spectacular. Guests reach this hillside escape via a long, umbrella pine tree-lined approach which makes for a fittingly cinematic build-up to one of the loveliest hotels I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. There’s also a helipad, should you wish to arrive in a James Bond-like fashion. There’s not much to do at the hotel apart from chill the hell out, which you can do by the picture perfect pool, or by sauntering around the landscaped grounds, indulging in a cake-heavy breakfast buffet and sipping Vermentino at the on-site winery. Come sunset, swallows chirp wildly as they murmurate around the main – they’re the only souls here who are in a less than majorly relaxed state, the poor things.
What are the rooms like at L'Andana?
There are 61 rooms and 11 suites across the hotel’s buildings, which include the main house. There’s even a private villa, La Scuderia. Charming but basic – if you’re after full bells and whistles, you might come away somewhat miffed. It’s more than acceptable however, and rather like you’re staying at a wealthy, elderly aunt’s countryside retreat. There are fireplaces, bookshelves, gilt mirror frames, plaster cupids, and a creamy, unobtrusive colour palette – that a vicious interior designer hasn’t had its way with the rooms makes them all the more charming. Old school and simple is the mood. Our room has an Ily coffee machine, views onto the mountains and the pool, and a hilariously large bathroom, with a giant bathtub fit for a Roman orgy. Beds are comfy and the sound of peace, perfect peace is deafening. What more could you want? Ok, how about stacks of magazines, including Casa Vogue from the 1980s, and a run of 1998 issues of Tatler, perfect for fans of Anthea Turner and 30 year old gossip from the home counties hunt ball scene.
What is the food like at L'Andana?
The main In-house restaurant, La Villa, has a picture perfect setting. The outdoor tables, which surround a stunning fountain and look over pine and olive trees as well as a quaint little church, make you feel like you’re at a really very fancy wedding. Breakfast, which is included with the room rate, comes in the form of breads, fruits, cheese, smoked salmon, the occasional burrata ball, cereals and coffee, as well as all manner of exciting tortas. It’s also open for lunch and dinner, serving elevated Tuscan cuisine and with lashings of locally-made olive oil on hand. A few minutes walk from the main building is La Trattoria Enrico Bartolini, a Michelin star restaurant with fancy tasting menus, and the chefs for both restaurants are the same, so you’re in for a treat whichever you choose. A warning; as the place is so remote, your options for eating are limited to these two spots, so for a light bite options are slim to none, especially if you’ve gone to L’Andana without your own car or transport. That said, the on-site winery whips up a mean cheese plate.
What is the service like at L'Andana?
Charming and unobtrusive. Help is there if you need it, but staff largely keep out of sight, appearing only when you need them to help with bags upon check-out, or to pop up behind the generally unmanned bar in the elegant, tiled lobby area. We can confirm that the Negronis you order will be made swiftly and strongly.
What is the pool and gym like at L'Andana?
The main pool is lovely, with views of gardens and main house, and is kept at a nicely fresh temperature. It’s surrounded by cosy loungers, and your rest and relaxation won’t be disturbed by the wails of toddlers, as under 16s aren’t allowed. There’s another pool for families around the corner. There’s also an indoor heated pool, as well as a sauna and steam room, as well as the option for treatments at the spa, and an indoor gym. Want to feel the sun on your face? There’s a five aside pitch, as well as a tennis court and bikes to use – however, some of the rockier paths around the vineyards struggled with the rather flimsy-feeling shopper bikes on offer. There’s also a golf course, if you’re into that kind of thing.
What’s the area like around L'Andana?
The hotel is pretty remote, but you are more than welcome to cycle around the vast grounds (if you can deal with the gritty, gravel paths). However, we’re warned by staff not to take them out of the hotel and onto the roads due to the somewhat haphazard nature of local car drivers. If you’ve come with a car, then the beach is a mere 15 minute drive away, while the charming Grosseto, the capital of Tuscany, is just 20 minutes.
Why should you book a stay at L'Andana
If you, like me, enjoy walking around gorgeous landscaped gardens and sighing ‘it’s just so lovely’ over and over to yourself, then L’Andana should be top of Tuscan to-do list. A true Italian beauty.
DETAILS
Address: L'Andana, Tenuta La Badiola, Castiglione della Pescaia, 58043, Italy
Price: Rooms from 339 Euros a night
Closest transport: 1hr 45 minute drive to Pisa Airport
Book now: Click here
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