Relais La Crocetta

San Casciano dei Bagni is an ancient hilltop village found on the southern slopes of Mount Cetona. Though it might appear to be a hidden gem, this remarkably pretty place has been famed for its thermal water for centuries. The Etruscans were the first to take advantage of it, followed by the Romans, who instigated the initial influx of international visitors that would continue throughout the Middle Ages. Under the Romans, it became a fortified village, evidence of which is still found in its walls and gateways. Royals and aristocrats adored the place, and much of the oldest remaining architecture is a result of their presence during the thirteenth to sixteenth centuries.

Today, it’s still pretty hard not to adore it. It is the very epitome of pastoral Tuscany, swathed in greenery and surrounded by hills, valleys, and a number of thermal springs for you to enjoy. The Relais La Crocetta is just a minute’s stroll from the village-proper, itself enmeshed by trees. It is a delightful period property that oozes Italian charm, much like its owners – three cousins with a shared affinity for food, wine, and good times. Indeed, ‘hospitality’ is what immediately comes to mind here. Rooms feature plush double beds and classic wood furnishings, instilling a cosy and warm atmosphere with the unpretentious farmhouse aesthetic. Soft curtains drape over the beds, and the exposed beams found in many of the rooms only adds to the charm. From the window, you’ll enjoy views of either the lovely garden or the lush oak forest.

Dining at Relais La Crocetta unveils the true deliciousness of Tuscan cuisine – and you’ll be experiencing only the most authentic dishes. The homely, warm environment will instantly put you at ease, yet the cuisine is decidedly stylish. The shifting menu uses local, natural produce, so that choices change with the seasons. Pair the perfect wine with your meal for the ultimate Italian dining experience, and be sure to take your meal out onto the terrace to enjoy the tranquil ambience of the garden. Contemplate the attractive environment you find yourself in. This is Tuscany as it should be experienced: intimate, warm, and utterly charming.