Villa Armena Relais

Villa Armena Relais Review

Ideally situated in the rolling landscape of Tuscany just 20 minutes from Siena, Villa Armena Relais is an exclusive 10-room inn in the village of Buonconvento. Built in the 16th century as a nobleman's residence, the late-Renaissance structure was painstakingly restored to its former glory before opening in 2012. Red-brick walls, oak beams, terracotta floors, and a beautiful Italianate garden define the public areas, and guest rooms convey an authentic sense of place with rich fabrics, handcrafted antique-style furnishings, fine paintings, and exposed-wood ceilings. Spacious, modern marble bathrooms feature deep soaking tubs (in some rooms) and amenities by Etro. Named for the 100-year-old tree in the garden, the inn's restaurant, the Sorbo Allegro (Merry Rowan) restaurant features a rustic dining room with warm, earthy tones and ancient stone walls. The cuisine adheres to the Slow Food philosophy and uses local, products whenever possible. Accompany your meal with a selection from the impressive wine cellar, which offers a tour of Italy's wine-growing regions and a focus on smaller, lesser-known vineyards. A picturesque swimming pool surrounded by rose gardens completes the package at this charming retreat; a separate "Beauty Farm" wellness center is set to open in 2013.