Restored Tuscan farmhouse in Val d’Orcia embraces an authentic Italian farm lifestyle
A delightful Tuscan stone farmhouse in Italy dating back to the early 17th century, Casa Fabbrini’s restoration has been done beautifully.
There’s a fascinating story behind everything at this boutique-style hotel, including the original locks on your bedroom door to faithfully recreated hues of paints once used in the stables. Stone walls, wooden ceiling beams, antique doors and shutters on windows overlooking vineyards and olive groves all make you feel as though you’ve stepped into another world or a bygone era. Set in the heart of the Val d’Orcia, Casa Fabbrini is fortunately both close to Tuscan and Umbrian attractions yet it feels as though you’re miles away from anywhere and can truly escape, especially in high summer.
Set between the thermal spa of San Casciano dei Bagni and the village of Palazzone, there’s plenty to discover right on your doorstep, along with activities such as horse riding on country trails or spending the day exploring little villages and people-watching over a cup of coffee. But if you head off in the early morning to Siena for a day trip for example, you’ll return to your peaceful country farmhouse feeling ever so glad that you can escape and live life like a local – and that dinner will be waiting for you!
Restorative thermal baths, delicious Tuscan cooking and more…
Casa Fabbrini’s charming bedrooms and bathrooms are all individually decorated, making this welcoming historical farmhouse feel like a home-away-from-home, an idyllic sanctuary where families and friends can spend a truly relaxed time together or you can book as a couple. After a swim in the steaming thermal baths (especially good to enjoy off-peak when the seasons are changing and weather is cooler), there’s nothing better than being greeted by the delicious aroma of dishes being prepared by Paola and Giorgio in the large open-plan kitchen. They’re passionate about Tuscan food and you’ll learn so much by watching them cook. Dishes are always seasonal and created around whatever is ripe in the kitchen garden or grown on neighbouring farms. They’re passionate about Tuscan food so this is heaven for foodies… and it gets better…they love families with kids (even little ones) so it’s a delightful Italian holiday option for multigenerational get-togethers, especially if you book it exclusively.
What we love!
• That Casa Fabbrini is an Agriturismo, so guests can embrace a farm lifestyle. This is a working olive and wine farm, making this an authentic country stay with great walks to enjoy at any time of the year.
• That you’re in the middle of olive groves and vineyards yet close to little villages, especially San Casciano dei Bagni with its historical thermal springs dating back to Roman times. The ‘Bagno Grande’ or great bath is an easy walk from the central square, through a peaceful wooded copse often used by joggers and walkers. Known for its therapeutic waters, the hot springs reach temperatures of 39°C.
• Children and families are welcome here! Just bear in mind that the ancient buildings have many steps – you need to watch little ones.
• This is foodie heaven: Tuscan dishes cooked by Paola and Giorgio, who manage Casa Fabbrini, are simply delicious with organic veggies plucked from the kitchen garden or nearby farms. The rate includes breakfast and dinner with an aperitivo and drinks.
What you need to know…
• That Casa Fabbrini’s straddles the best of Tuscan and Umbrian countryside, so you can visit quaint medieval villages, yet you’re not far from Siena (1.5 hours’ drive). There’s a spa resort 10 mins from the farmhouse (Fonteverde Natural Spa) in San Casciano dei Bagni, and Cetona, Chaise and Città della Piece are all 10-15 mins away. Orvieto is worth a day trip – just 40 mins away – fascinating, beautifully preserved hilltop town and good wine tasting.Â
• Having a hired car is the way to go here as it allows you the freedom to explore neighbouring villages and countryside, but because of their heritage, they cannot have a sign – so follow the directions carefully otherwise you could drive straight past!
• If you’re travelling by train, Casa Fabbrini operates a shuttle service to and from Chiusi Scalo station (for a small fee, and must be booked ahead of arrival).
• That Casa Fabbrini has three sister properties in Rome, ranging from a BnB right near the Spanish Steps to a boutique hotel. Let us know if you’re flying via Rome and would like to combine the two?Â
• If Casa Fabbrini is not available on your dates, perhaps browse our handpicked collection of other Italian properties in Tuscany, Umbria or Puglia. Or, combine Casa Fabbrini with a stay in Puglia? Our blog, Introducing Italy, is an insider’s guide to our collection in Puglia.
Reviewed by Michelle Snaddon