When invited to a weekend under the Tuscan sun, the answer is always yes. I’d never been to Tuscany but of course we all want to relive Diane Lane’s experience in the movie that pinned Tuscany to the map.

Tucked into the soft green rolling hills of North Eastern Tuscany, you will find a stylish yet welcoming boutique hotel. Owned and run by the charming Paolo and Phillip, as well as their gorgeous family of dogs, I was blown away by their kind and generous hospitality.

On arrival into the grounds of Fontelunga, the burnt orange historic building stands tall and proud amongst a lush glamorous garden. You are greeted by the excited barks of their pups and invited to a welcome drink over looking their gorgeous gardens. Sipping on my Aperol spritz, we are guided around the property for a little tour before settling into our rooms, with the magical sunset sinking into the horizon.

Inside what feels like a large country mansion, you have the choice of eight differently themed rooms and a junior suite in a separate cottage outside. You can expect lashings of vintage Italiana with modern touches of Molten Brown in the bathroom which leaves you feeling luxuriously relaxed.

You also have three self catering villas in the area that are extended accommodation choices for a more private setting.

I deliberately leave my curtains drawn back ready for the Tuscan sun to gently caress my skin good morning. Layered onto this gentle awakening, an inviting freshly baked cake aroma wafts up the corridors and into my room. Paulo is busily baking breakfast for his guests and the smell is too good to resist. I opt for a early morning country run and borrow two of the puppies to keep me company while the cake finishes baking.

The grass is still dewy as the sun starts to rise over the hills, and it’s the first time in a long while I can breathe deeply. Something about the fresh air outside of London, makes me immediately unwind. I’m not sure who was taking who for a run, but I was definitely hungry on my return after running with the dogs.

Back at the hotel, a delicious spread of breakfast awaits. Fruits, cereals, the freshly baked cake and eggs your way can be ordered from the kitchen. Self serve a delicious plate of goodies and take yourself to the garden or by the pool surrounded by olive trees. The setting demands a long slow breakfast with multiple cups of tea or coffee. I never wanted to leave.

But of course we had to see what was on offer close by to the hotel. During our stay we were treated to so many delicious encounters. From organic wineries and rustic restaurants, every meal was brimming with Tuscan delights and dishes you just can’t say no to. You have close access to old Tuscan hilltop towns and villages such as Pienza, Monte San Savino, Lucignano and Cortona. But coming home to a glass of wine by the outdoor fire after a long day of sightseeing (and eating) is another reason to stay at Fontelunga when visiting Tuscany.

Something a little different, but was definitely a highlight of staying at Fontelunga was the weekly dinner party. Once a week Paulo and Phillip host a 3 course meal for everyone that is staying at the hotel and villas. People come together over amazing food, wine and conversation and time stops…. just for the evening. It’s one of those unique experiences that you just don’t find anywhere else.

The hotel is perfectly situated so that guests have plenty to do and see if you need to stay busy, but the oasis that has been created at the property is good enough not to leave. Pack copious amounts of books or borrow some from the hotel, Fontelunga is a place to unwind, indulge and relax. Come for a long weekend, but it’s better if you book a longer stay. 2 nights was just not long enough.

A big thank you to Paulo and Philip for making our group feel at home. Sharing stories, photos and lap cuddles with your dogs, you invited us in and made us feel like we could stay as long as we liked. So, thank you!

Rates: Rooms are available in the main Fontelunga hotel from 175EUR (approx. £155) per night, and exclusive hire of the villas is available from 1,855EUR (approx. £1,648). Discounts of up to 30% are currently available for minimum 7-night stays throughout the summer months – please find further information here

Booking: Contact info@fontelunga.com or call +39 0575 660 410