Ortali Country House

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Ortali Country House? It’s actually tucked away in this tiny hamlet called Quarata – I mean, you’re not going to stumble across it by accident. The address says Località Ortali, which basically means “out in the countryside where the locals keep their best-kept secrets.” And honestly, that’s exactly what this place feels like.

The drive up is through these winding Tuscan hills about 10 minutes from Arezzo proper, and you’ll pass maybe three other houses before you reach the property. It’s one of those places where you start wondering if your GPS is leading you astray, then suddenly there it is – this beautifully restored stone farmhouse that looks like it’s been sitting there for centuries (which it probably has). The owners have done something really smart here – they’ve kept all the original character but added modern touches that actually work. I’m talking about things like heated bathroom floors and really good Wi-Fi, which you honestly don’t expect to find in a place this remote.

What I love about staying here is how quiet it gets at night. Like, properly quiet – no traffic, no city noise, just the occasional sound of wind through the olive trees. The rooms have these thick stone walls that keep everything cool during the day, and the beds are the kind where you sink in and don’t move for eight hours straight. The breakfast setup is worth mentioning too – they do this spread of local cheeses and honey from their own hives, plus the woman who runs the place (I think her name is Giulia?) makes this incredible fig jam that I’m pretty sure you can’t buy anywhere else. She’s also the type who’ll sit down and tell you exactly which back roads to take to avoid the tourist crowds in Arezzo.

The whole property has maybe eight rooms total, so you’re never dealing with crowds or feeling like you’re in some massive hotel operation. There’s a pool area that catches the afternoon sun perfectly, and honestly, after a day of driving around to hill towns and wine estates, there’s nothing better than floating there with a glass of something local while the sun sets over the valley. The only minor thing I’d mention is that you definitely need a car – there’s no walking to restaurants or shops from here. But that’s sort of the point, right? You come here to disconnect and actually experience what rural Tuscany feels like when the day-trippers go home. Plus, the owners have this covered outdoor dining area where they’ll arrange dinners if you ask ahead – just you and maybe the other guests, eating under string lights with the kind of view that makes you understand why people move to Italy and never leave.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $111. Double Room with Extra Bed with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $111. Double Room with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $129. Suite with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• Spacious grounds and lovely pool. – Robert from United Kingdom – 9 July 2025 (10/10)

  Very welcoming host. We could use a shared fridge and dine out in the grounds which were spacious. Great breakfast and lovely big pool. Easy parking and close to Arezzo centre.
  
  What could be improved: We were a bit confused as to what the 'dining area' actually was. Not a private area but presumably tables outside the kitchen.

• Exceptional – Hans from Australia – 8 June 2025 (10/10)

  Marzia and her family have a beautiful old farmhouse with a gigantic swimming pool set in a very tranquil location a short drive from Arezzo.
  The breakfast overseen by Nonna was superb.
  They are a wonderful welcoming family.
  As the weather was warming up, a swim in the pool after a day walking and exploring Arezzo and Cortona was the perfect way to end the day.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Cute stay in the Italian countryside. – Nida from United States – 24 September 2024 (10/10)

  Such a cute house in the Italian countryside, we were so lucky to be able to stay there. The homemade breakfast in the morning was definitely a highlight as were the dogs (such sweeties!). If you want to stay in the countryside, this is the place for you.
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing to dislike. Thank you for welcoming us into your home!!

• Beautiful property, best breakfast, amazing pool – Hill from Australia – 2 September 2024 (10/10)

  The most beautiful property, with a stunning pool and vista. The breakfast had plenty of cakes, cold meats, pecorino cheese, fruit and other homemade treats. Cakes and biscuits were also left to snack on throughout the day. The property is easy to access without a car. 15 minute bus ride from Arezzo and then a ten minute walk. We could even have food delivered via Deliveroo. Everyone was so kind, would highly recommend to anyone that wants to explore the Tuscan countryside.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing! 😃

• Fabulous property – Sharyn from New Zealand – 28 August 2024 (10/10)

  Great property fabulous swimming pool and area to relax in. The family were so lovely and welcoming. The breakfast was amazing. Arezzo old town not too far away. We loved our stay and would definitely recommend.

• Exceptional – Fotis from Greece – 26 July 2024 (10/10)

  The best place.The best people.See you next time.💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯

• What a lovely place and it exceeded our expectations – Philip from United Kingdom – 1 June 2024 (10/10)

  What a total gem, exceeded all our expectations, a traditional Tuscany home and family, they were so welcoming and made us feel part of their family, highly recommend a visit here.
  
  What could be improved: We could find no fault with anything

• Relaxing week stay – Hannah from United Kingdom – 9 July 2023 (10/10)

  Lovely hosts. Rooms, grounds and pool are kept impeccably clean. Fresh complimentary breakfast as well as snacks and coffee on demand. We did not expect our room to be serviced but it was daily nonetheless. Location is perfect for exploring Tuscany, but equally ideal for pure relaxation.
  
  Grazieee 😁.

• lovely – Zeev from Israel – 28 September 2022 (9/10)

  lovely b&b you feel like at home with the nice family the hospitality the worm atmosphere.
  we stayed at the suite its big comfort and good value for the cost ,
  nice and cozy
  
  What could be improved: locations, hospitality

• We had a wonderful stay in the country yet still very close to the charming town of Arezzo. The place met our needs and – Stephen from United States – 23 September 2022 (10/10)

  comfortable
  friendly
  convenient

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities