The Credentials
Nestled in Val de Chiane, the largest open valley in the Tuscan Apennines, just half an hour from Florence, is Borgo 69… a former agricultural dwelling that comprises twelve unique self-catering villa suites, a restaurant and a boutique.
The suites are the latest offering from Paolo Kastelec and Philip Robinson, owners of nearby Villa Fontelunga (featured last year). But whilst Villa Fontelunga perfectly encapsulates the traditional Tuscan dream; wooden shutters, original tiles and verdant country gardens, Borgo 69 instead unites striking modern architecture and high-spec detailing with rustic Tuscan texture and quality textiles.
Philip, an architect, designed the dwelling from the ground up. He worked tirelessly to ensure that every villa had ‘something special’: a 180-degree view, a private shady garden or a spectacular roof terrace (or two!). There are creative solutions at every turn; a thoughtfully positioned window that offers just a sliver of a majestic view, an ornate salvaged balustrade that gives an ordinary balcony va-va-voom and a dual-aspect fireplace that can be accessed from inside during the winter and outside in summer. There are agriculturally inspired brickwork trellises that allow the light to penetrate without compromising privacy and there’s a heavenly infinity pool with terracotta-clad loungers from which to enjoy sweeping views of the property’s vast olive grove.
Sleep
Each of the twelve self-catering villa suites is positioned to offer maximum seclusion whilst showcasing the valley’s breathtaking views. We stay in Number 11, a well-proportioned soothingly decorated one-bedroom with a well-equipped kitchen, cosy lounge and not one, but two terraces on opposing aspects. The first is perfectly positioned for a sunny morning espresso whilst the other boasts a view of the sunset that is simply begging to be enjoyed with a Campari spritz.
The style is paired-back luxury with an agricultural twist. Texture and patina are used to maximum effect, allowing the newer parts of the building to blend seamlessly with the ancient Tuscan buildings that pepper the hillside. The colour pallet also reflects the bucolic surroundings. There are soothing shades of olive and terracotta, earthy mushroom walls, gentle lilac details and creamy-hued fabrics. The furniture is a mix of sumptuously upholstered contemporary pieces with traditional artefacts; an olive wood bench, an emerald-hued velvet chair, a straw fedora and rustic rattan rugs.
Dine
This is Tuscany, so as you’d expect, the area is teeming with great restaurants. We had a wonderful meal in the main piazza in nearby Cortona. Pozzo’s pizzeria ‘Fabios’ sells excellent crispy crust pizza and offers takeaway if you don’t fancy going out but need something to soak up the sundowners.
By far the best meal of the trip was the one we enjoyed at Borgo 69’s very own Emporio di Ines. Charming staff offer plates of moreish chichetti (small plates) and there’s a comprehensive wine and cocktail list. The arancini, the cod tartare and the polenta chips were a personal highlight. My husband was particularly delighted with his Negroni, which if his hangover is anything to go by, packed a real punch.
Out & About
Situated on the outskirts of the charming village of Pozzo, the suites are extremely well-positioned to see Tuscany. The major towns of Florence and Siena are about half an hour away, but we stay local because our visit takes place during a heatwave and it’s 38 degrees in the shade. Lago di Trasimeno is a short drive away and offers plentiful opportunities for walkers, swimmers and picnickers. The nearby town of Montepulciano boasts not only its famous vineyards, but fabulous restaurants including The Osteria Acquacheta, famous for its Florentine Steak.
The Fontelunga Tuscan Collection has its own app, ‘Vamoos’, where all of the local highlights have been carefully compiled for your perusal. And whilst it’s no secret that there are a million things to see, eat, drink and do in Tuscany… my advice is to carve out at least an afternoon to spend horizontally beside Borgo 69’s infinity pool. Reclining with a book as you gaze across the dusky olive grove is a restorative experience indeed.
The Crowd
A young family whom I’m sure I recognise from my local Gails. Buzzy high flyers from all over the world, some with children, for whom this kind of stylish but enclosed set-up is a fun but convenient option.
In a Nutshell
Borgo 69 has all of the amenities of a luxury hotel without any of the restrictions. The freedom of self-catering is a deeply relaxing prospect allowing guests to do as much or as little as they please. Philip and Paolo are utterly charming and great fun if you can pin them down for a chat- they can often be found buzzing in and out of Emporio di Ines with a flotilla of pooches in tow. You get the impression that they’re delighted to be sharing their corner of Tuscany with you… and believe me when I tell you… the delight will be all yours.
Details
Borgo 69 offers a selection of one, two or three-bedroom self-catering villas from £333.00 per night.
Via Ponte al Ramo, Via Casacce, Arezzo, Italy
