Il Falconiere Relais & Spa

First Impressions

Driving up the winding cypress-lined road to Il Falconiere Relais & Spa, you know you’re in for something special. This five-star estate sits on a hillside just outside Cortona, and honestly — the setting is pure Tuscan magic. The main villa dates back to the 17th century, and they’ve kept all that old-world charm while adding the kind of luxury touches that make you feel properly pampered. I mean, when you pull up and see those honey-colored stone buildings surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, it’s exactly what you picture when you think of the perfect Italian escape.

The Grounds and Atmosphere

What really struck me about this place is how they’ve managed to keep it feeling intimate despite having all the amenities of a luxury resort. The property sprawls across these beautiful gardens — there’s actually a Michelin-starred restaurant on-site called Il Falconiere, which is housed in an old lemon house. The spa is tucked away in what used to be the estate’s cellars, so you’re getting treatments in these gorgeous stone-vaulted rooms. You know what’s brilliant? They’ve got this pool area that looks out over the Val di Chiana, and on clear days you can see all the way to the mountains.

Accommodations

The rooms and suites are scattered between the main villa and several smaller buildings around the property, which gives everything a really authentic feel — like you’re staying in a private Tuscan estate rather than a hotel. My room had these incredible frescoed ceilings and antique furnishings mixed with modern comforts. The bathrooms are particularly lovely, with marble details and those deep soaking tubs that are perfect after a day of exploring. Most accommodations come with terraces or small gardens, and the views are just stunning — rolling hills dotted with cypress trees as far as you can see.

Location and Exploring

Being just a few minutes from Cortona is actually perfect — you get that peaceful countryside setting but you’re close enough to wander into town for dinner or shopping. The hotel provides a shuttle service, which is handy since the roads can be a bit narrow if you’re not used to driving in Tuscany. Cortona itself is this gorgeous hilltop town with medieval streets and fantastic little trattorias. What I loved is that the hotel staff really knows the area — they’ll point you toward the best local wine producers and those hidden restaurants that tourists usually miss.

Why Guests Love It

There’s something about Il Falconiere that just works for couples — maybe it’s the romantic setting or the way the staff manages to make everything feel effortless and special. The Michelin-starred dining is obviously a highlight, but even the casual meals feel thoughtfully prepared. They source a lot of ingredients from their own gardens and local producers, so everything tastes incredibly fresh. The parking is complimentary, which might seem like a small thing but it’s actually quite nice not to worry about that. Honestly, if you’re looking for that quintessential Tuscan luxury experience without feeling like you’re in some massive resort, this place delivers beautifully.