Il Borghetto Country Inn

Il Borghetto Country Inn is an absolute dream, an idyllic hideaway in one of the most enchanting areas of Tuscany. It is owned by the Cavallini family who originally bought a farmhouse in the heart of the exquisite Chianti district to use as a family weekend retreat. When the adjacent farmhouse came on the market, they bought it too, restored it to perfection, and opened a tiny hotel. What makes this small inn so special is that it is a family operation. The father, Roberto Cavallini, watches over the operation from Milan, his son, Antonio, is the on-site manager, and the charming daughter, Ilaria, ably helps out. Guests have their own intimate, beautifully decorated lounge, which also serves as the breakfast room (in warm weather breakfast is served outside on the lovely terrace). Rosie Cavallini did all the decorating and every detail is of superb quality with beautiful fabrics, original paintings, abundant displays of fresh flowers, Oriental carpets, and fine antiques. But the best I’ve saved for last—a sweeping vista of olive groves and vineyards that produce extra virgin olive oil, Chianti Classico and Merlot wine. Tours and wine tasting in the cellar are available, as well as on-site cooking courses which include food and art tours in Florence, Siena and the surrounding countryside.