Locanda di Santantimo

First Impressions

When I first pulled up to Locanda di Santantimo, honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this four-star property tucked away in Chiassa Superiore. The building has this understated elegance that feels authentically Tuscan — none of that over-the-top tourist trap vibe you sometimes get. You know what struck me immediately? The way the staff greeted us wasn’t rushed or scripted, just genuinely warm in that way Italians do so well.

Location & Getting Around

Here’s the thing about staying in Chiassa Superiore — you’re technically outside Arezzo proper, but that’s actually what makes this place special. I mean, you get the peaceful countryside feeling while still being close enough to explore the city when you want to. The drive into Arezzo takes maybe fifteen minutes, and there’s parking right at the property, which honestly saved us so much hassle. Couples seem to really love this spot (the staff mentioned it’s their most popular demographic), and I can see why — it’s romantic without being cheesy about it.

The Room Experience

My room had these beautiful exposed beams and tile floors that felt cool under bare feet during the warm afternoons. The furnishings struck that perfect balance between traditional Tuscan style and modern comfort — I’m talking about a bed that actually let me sleep well, not just look pretty. The bathroom was surprisingly spacious, and the shower had excellent water pressure, which you can’t always count on in older Italian buildings. What I really appreciated was the attention to small details, like the quality of the linens and the way the windows opened wide to let in that incredible Tuscan air.

Dining & Atmosphere

The restaurant here deserves its own mention — they’re doing something really special with local ingredients. I had this wild boar dish that was probably one of the best meals of my entire trip, and the wine list focuses on regional selections that pair beautifully with the food. Breakfast was served on the terrace when weather permitted, and there’s something magical about starting your day with fresh pastries and strong Italian coffee while looking out over the Tuscan hills. The whole dining experience felt intimate rather than rushed, which seems to be their approach to everything here.

Why Guests Love It

What really sets this place apart is how it manages to feel like a genuine escape without being isolated from everything interesting. The recent guests I chatted with kept mentioning the same things — the peaceful setting, the quality of service, and how the location gives you the best of both worlds. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a lazy afternoon reading in their garden, then head into Arezzo for dinner and culture. The 9.3 rating makes perfect sense once you’ve stayed here — it’s not trying to be the fanciest place in Tuscany, but it does what it does exceptionally well.