Casa Ruffino – Wine Relais

Hotel Description

You know what? I wasn’t expecting much when I first pulled up to Casa Ruffino – honestly, the address on Via di Poggio al Mandorlo doesn’t exactly scream “luxury retreat” until you’re actually there. But this place completely caught me off guard in the best way possible. It’s tucked into these rolling Tuscan hills just outside Bagno a Ripoli, and I mean *just* outside – you’re maybe fifteen minutes from Florence’s centro storico, but it feels like you’ve escaped to another century. The whole property used to be a working vineyard (still is, actually), and they’ve converted these old stone buildings into this incredibly intimate wine relais that somehow manages to feel both rustic and refined.

The rooms are gorgeous – thick stone walls, exposed beams, but with all the modern touches you’d want from a proper 4-star place. What really gets me is how quiet it is here. I stayed in late September, and honestly, the only sounds were cicadas and the occasional tractor working the vines. The staff knows their stuff too, especially about wine pairings – they’ll set you up with tastings from their own production, which is surprisingly good. I’m usually skeptical of hotel wines, but their Chianti Classico was legit. The restaurant sources most ingredients from within maybe a 20-kilometer radius, and you can actually taste the difference. Fair warning though – dinner reservations fill up fast, especially on weekends when Florentines drive out for romantic dinners.

Here’s the thing that really sold me on this place: it’s perfectly positioned for day trips without feeling touristy. You’re close enough to hit the Uffizi in the morning and be back for an afternoon wine tasting, but you’re also right in the heart of actual Chianti country. The concierge (Maria, I think?) gave me directions to this tiny enoteca in Greve that I never would’ve found otherwise. Parking’s easy – they’ve got a proper lot, which is honestly a relief after dealing with Florence’s ZTL restrictions. The pool area overlooks the vineyard, and while it’s not huge, it’s perfect for cooling off after a day of wine touring. I will say, if you’re looking for nightlife or bustling energy, this isn’t your spot. But if you want to disconnect, drink excellent wine, and wake up to views that look like Renaissance paintings, Casa Ruffino nails it completely.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $239. Double or Twin Room with 1 double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $275. Superior Double Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $286. Deluxe Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $188. Large Single Room with 1 single bed and 1 double bed for Max persons: 1

Reviews

• Charming retreat for couples – Lenny from Iceland – 2 July 2025 (10/10)

  An absolutely wonderful place to relax and enjoy the view. Peaceful, beautiful, and a great mix of modern design with old charm and a lovely property. Highly recommended for small groups and couples.

• Superb – Nejc from Slovenia – 12 June 2025 (9/10)

  The location is great, and the surrounding vineyards contribute to an authentic Tuscan experience. The building itself, along with the park, reflects the idyllic Tuscan style, even though everything has been renovated.
  
  What could be improved: However, the noise from neighboring rooms is too noticeable—you can hear people laughing in the next room. When someone takes a shower, the sound of water running through the pipes is clearly audible. It’s quite apparent.

• Gorgeous estate 💫 – Naya from Greece – 1 June 2025 (9/10)

  The property is like a fairytale! 😍
  
  What could be improved: Some notes for improvement:
  – breakfast was really poor, very few options
  – wifi was weak

• Exceptional – Miguel from Malta – 17 May 2025 (10/10)

  We had a wonderful time at Casa Ruffino, the stay exceeded our expectations. The design is beautiful, thoughtful, and very comfortable. The wines were a real highlight , elegant and full of character. But what truly made it special was the warm hospitality from everyone from the director to the reception, hosts, and restaurant staff. Thank you for making us feel so welcome. Until next time!
  
  What could be improved: Leaving

• Amazing stay at Casa Ruffino, one of the most beautiful places we stayed at in Italy. The staff is excellent. Rooms are – Ilana from Israel – 26 October 2024 (9/10)

  Super clean, beautiful, everything in good taste.
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast can be a little bit richer, add vegetables. WiFi didn’t work well.

• Amazing stay – Shevchuk from United States – 16 October 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful place, excellent food, nice people:)

• Quite paradise just outside Florens – Armin from Sweden – 30 September 2024 (10/10)

  Wonderful complex in the nature about 20 min from central Florens. Great wines and food at Tre Rane restaurant is just amazing. Staff also very kind, helpful and professional. Paradise for the soul.
  
  What could be improved: The only little minus is wooden doors of the bedrooms: they are not tight/isolated so you can hear people every time someone goes in or out. Luckily there is just a few bedrooms 🙂

• Stunning winery hotel. Quiet and relaxing, great wine! – Hannah from United Kingdom – 16 September 2024 (9/10)

  Stunning decor and location, hotel is very nicely finished. Great outside area. Buffet breakfast was small but very good quality. Dinner at the restaurant was amazing, make sure you book in advance, staff were very helpful on drink and food recommendations.
  
  What could be improved: Told multiple times restaurant was fully booked when checking in and at the bar but when we entered for dinner there were only 3 other tables. We had booked in advance anyway so make sure you do this rather than waiting till you arrive.

• Restaurant was mouth watering, one of the best I've been to. Staff were amazing! – Raphael from Canada – 5 September 2024 (10/10)

  The views and property were great but what really stuck with me is the restaurant was absolutely insane. It was sooo good and I've been thinking about it everyday since. Can't wait to go back!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Superb – Ajsha from Netherlands – 3 September 2024 (9/10)

  We loved the interior (lots of design pieces), how clean it was, the surroundings, great wine, extremely good food at their restaurant. Super friendly staff
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast was too poor, not enough variety and the staff was too absent.
  The rooms were not isolated enough, too noisy. We would hear the neighbours.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities