 La
Dolce Vita Among the Vines
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Il
Tesoro: A Treasure on the Rolling Hills |
In
the rolling Maremma hills in western Tuscany, Villa Il Tesoro
feels organic, as if it has always been part of the landscape.
It's a remarkable place, dating back to the 17th century, when
it was a private residence. Today its stone buildings create
a dramatic profile at the crest of a secluded estate, surrounded
by 4,000 olive trees, stands of pine and Sangiovese, Cabernet
Sauvignon and Merlot vines.
Redesigned
to welcome a select few at a time, the villa houses an exclusive
collection of 19 suites. Their soothing, creamy colors provide
a backdrop for the simple, but striking, accents. In one room,
a fabric headboard rests against a bricked-in archway, while
in another an armchair clothed in zebra stripes adds a touch
of whimsy. Don't get the idea that this property falls into
the hip hotel genre, though. It is too classic and elegant.
The owners made a wise choice when they kept the open timber
beam ceilings. And instead of art on your bedroom wall, you're
likely to find a recessed niche displaying a pair of pine cones.
Simplicity has never been so warm and inviting.
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| Sweet
Italian Dreams |
Some
of the rooms have private gardens or terraces, and all have
views of the hills and/or the Tyrrhenian Sea. Accommodations
are surprisingly well-equipped with modern amenities, such as
air conditioning, telephones, Internet access, mini bars, TVs
and safes. Additional unexpected (but thoughtful) modern niceties
include an outdoor fitness area and a 24-hour business center.
Not that guests will feel like working when they can head out
on mountain bikes, drift in the pool or laze in the living room,
where complimentary beverages are served throughout the day:
tea, coffee, soft drinks, mineral water and La Fonte wine from
the villa's own vineyards. There is also a cigar room, for post
dinner puffing.
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Under the Tuscan Sun |
Local artwork |
The
villa's chef, Giuseppe Mellino, makes artful use of fresh seafood,
homegrown vegetables and produce from local markets. His gleaming
state-of-the-art kitchen is a marked contrast to the comfy country
dining room of Il Fiore del Tesoro, the stone-walled, timber-beamed
restaurant. If so inspired by the traditional Tuscan cuisine,
guests can request cooking classes. And for those devoted epicures,
the villa offers culinary packages that include market visits
and wine tastings.
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A
Visit to the Market |
Rustic,
remote and wonderfully romantic, Villa Il Tesoro is an authentic
introduction to rural Tuscan living.
Going
to Italy? Check our guide. |
(Updated: 07/08/08 ET) |
Villa
Il Tesoro
