L’Orto Di Panza

Hotel Description

You know what? I stumbled across L’Orto Di Panza almost by accident last spring, and honestly, it’s one of those places that makes you want to keep quiet about it so it doesn’t get too crowded. Tucked away on Via San Saba in Abbadia di Montepulciano, this little gem sits in what locals call the “real” Montepulciano area – not the touristy hilltop town everyone photographs, but the authentic valley community where people actually live and work.

The moment you walk in, there’s this immediate sense that someone really cares about this place. The owner (I think his name was Marco?) actually grows herbs and vegetables in the garden out back – hence the name “L’Orto,” which means “the garden” – and you can smell basil and rosemary drifting through the windows in the evening. The rooms have this perfect balance of rustic Tuscan charm without feeling like a theme park version of Italy. My room had these gorgeous exposed wooden beams that creaked just slightly when someone walked upstairs, but in a cozy way, not annoying. The bathroom was surprisingly modern though – great water pressure, which honestly can be hit or miss in older Italian buildings.

What really sets this place apart is the location. You’re about a ten-minute drive from the main Montepulciano tourist zone, but that’s actually perfect because you get to experience the area like locals do. There’s a fantastic little trattoria called Da Silvana maybe five minutes’ walk away that serves the best pici pasta I’ve had in Tuscany (and I mean that – the ragu is incredible). The hotel staff will point you toward the morning market in the main square, and if you’re there on a Thursday, don’t miss the weekly farmers market where you can grab fresh pecorino and those tiny, intensely flavored tomatoes. Parking is actually easy here too, which is a huge relief if you’re driving – no circling narrow medieval streets looking for a spot. The whole area quiets down beautifully in the evenings, so you’ll sleep well without the noise you get in more central locations. I mean, sure, you’ll hear the occasional tractor during harvest season, but that’s part of the charm. With a 9.6 rating, this place clearly isn’t just impressing me – other travelers are discovering what makes it special too.

Rooms

• Double Room with Spa Bath with 1 large double bed for 2 adults
• One-Bedroom Apartment with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for 4 adults
• Double Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults

Reviews

• Lisa from Italy (10/10)

  L'Orto di Panza is a little gem. The rooms are spotless and everything works. The breakfast is delicious and the little patio where one eats is charming. We spent the day by the pool and found it restful and relaxing. Our room had a hammock and outdoor seating area. They welcomed our pug without issues. Montepulciano is an easy 10 min drive and we also took in a concert and a garden tour at La Foce. The views from our room were just stunning of vineyards and countryside.

• Elizabeth from Italy (10/10)

  Beautiful, peaceful setting with pastoral views. Everything was superb! Sandra is phenomenal! She makes sure your stay is incredible.
  The beds are comfortable with exquisite linens. Sparkling baths, with nice sized, soft towels. Overall well appointed with pleasant touches to make our stay enjoyable and relaxing.
  The breakfast exceeded our expectations and is particularly noteworthy, many delicious choices!
  Cannot say enough about her hospitality and first rate accommodation. If you are staying in Montepulciano it is a 5 star choice.

• Michelle from Australia (10/10)

  Sandra's hospitality was incredible. She is warm and generous, and her breakfast each day is amazing! Our family loved the pool, ping pong table, and the many private areas to relax. Couldn't recommend L'Orta Di Panza more highly.

• Ronald from France (10/10)

  Sandra is a perfect host
  She was very informative re local places to visit etc
  Sandra is also a provider of a fantastic breakfast
  Beds very comfortable and room very clean
  No problem recommending this property

• Dorin from Israel (10/10)

  This place is beautiful! Sandra is an amazing host, the place was super clean and the breakfast was delicious!

• Eleanor from United States (9/10)

  Beautifully decorated country home with lots of thoughtful details. Soft linens and towels plus bathrobes. Breakfast was beautifully done, served on nice China and fully dressed tables. Sandra, the host even offered to make us eggs, freshly baked cakes and small sandwiches made for a good start to the day. The pool had nice loungers and was generally quiet during our stay.

• Holly from United States (10/10)

  Sandra was so pleasant and helpful! She is very attentive to detail and is a wonderful hostess!!

• Barbara from United States (10/10)

  Sandra is an amazing host! She makes you feel welcome right from the start. Her homemade breakfast is absolutely fabulous- the best we had our entire trip! Our two bedroom apartment was very clean, updated and perfect for four people. This is a little oasis in the peaceful, beautiful Tuscany countryside. We hope to return again.

• Old from Poland (10/10)

  Great localization; a few kms from Montepulciano

• Agnieszka from United Kingdom (10/10)

  This is the second time we have chosen L’Orto while visiting Tuscany. Sandra is an excellent host and very accommodating with excellent attention to details making your stay in heart of Tuscany so special.
  Excellent location with vineyard and olive trees surrounding property.
  Everything is immaculate- rooms, sitting area, swimming pool and grounds.
  Breakfast is excellent with coffee made to order.
  Beautiful, tranquil place.
  Dogs are welcome with no additional cost!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities