Review: A taste of Tuscany at La Posta

The facts: The hotel houses 35 rooms, including three connecting pairs and four suites, with several boasting enviable hillside views. The decor is traditional with deep-toned walls, vintage upholstery, Murano-style chandeliers and card tables à la Agatha Christie. Enchanting folklore tales left on pillows during turn-down and daily bulletins spotlighting local attractions to peruse over breakfast help guests feel like they’re being let in on the region’s secrets. Bar Verde is a charming aperitivo spot, with cosy corners and an eclectic record collection for convivial evenings. The restaurant boasts many staggering views, and while it delivers well-executed classics such as ragu and ribollita stew alongside experimental dishes including matcha ravioli, the breakfast station being set up during dinner service dampens the evening atmosphere somewhat. The thermal baths are the star of the show, with two pools at a consistent 32C, and the most popular at a steamy 38C. Visitors flock here in the spring and autumn to feel the benefits of the mineral-rich water, which can be transformative for the skin, muscles and joints. With a kiosk serving relaxed drinks and light meals, and dozens of loungers overlooking the serene cypress trees of Val d’Orcia, the pools are the hotel’s irrefutable raisons d’être. The tranquil mood extends into the spa, which contains a whirlpool bath, Turkish bath, salt room, two saunas and three treatment rooms offering exceptional massages, including the divine La Posta signature with wine-infused oil.

Ideal for: The trademark three-night Wine & Wellness package sums up the hotel’s decadent approach to wellbeing – a healthy balance of cleansing, relaxation and indulgence. La Posta has an undeniably romantic quality and is not designed for families, only welcoming guests aged 14 or above.

Explore: The hotel is set in the tiny hamlet of Bagno Vignoni, with a population of just 16 but a charming cafe, deli, eateries and even a book shop. The village is one of countless idyllic stops along the Via Francigena pilgrimage route, trodden by thousands venturing from Canterbury to Rome over the centuries. The winding track – studded with historic gems – can be explored on foot, by bike or even on a Vespa for a cinematic Italian excursion. Also dotted among the hills is a multitude of what Tuscany does best – vineyards. A host of family-run establishments are nestled within the lush landscape, including female-owned Patrizia Cencioni winery, which serves a range of full-bodied Brunello di Montalcinos guests can sample over intimate lunches. Not to be missed is the Poggio Grande winery, run by an affable father-daughter duo, where wine connoisseurs can appreciate their wares during sun-soaked tastings with jaw-dropping views over never-ending vines.

Wow: La Posta’s tranquil pools take on an even more magical quality after dark during Bathing Under the Stars sessions every Friday and Saturday, when guests are invited to luxuriate in the balmy waters as they gaze at twinkling constellations. With scope to organise private bookings – including sparkling wine – this is a unique experience to titillate seasoned R&R lovers.

Book it: Classic rooms start at €295 per night including breakfast.
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