Relais Sant'Elena
"So, can you tell us a little about this place?Although Relais Sant’Elena Tenuta Gardini, a secluded Italian farmhouse, looks like an old, historic property, it was actually built in 2008. Flora and fauna dominate the grounds; the main building is covered in cascading ivy, and there's a rose garden where you could easily while away an afternoon. It sounds lovely. Who else is staying here?This 16-room boutique hotel is all about romance. You'll find a large proportion of honeymooners, as well as older couples celebrating double-digit anniversaries. Makes sense. How was check in? Check in here is incredibly straightforward and personal, as is every interaction with staff. A small boutique property, this is the type of place that will mail home your olive oil purchases, no questions asked, and spend 40 minutes waxing lyrical on local restaurant options if you have the time. That's our idea of perfection. Now, onto the good stuff: Tell us about the digs.Each room is individually designed with a panoply of colors, fabrics, and prints; historic details like stone accent walls and wooden beams; and antiques from the owner's own collection. The bathrooms have undergone modern updates; expect rain showers and local organic toiletries made from olive oil. Wow—they're quite considerate of olive oil! How about the little things, like the mini-bar, or shower goodies? Anything that made your stay more comfortable?All the basics are covered—laundry services, free wifi, and satellite TV. In-room heating comes courtesy of geothermal, solar, and photovoltaic panels. Bottled water is free; the minibar is restocked daily with beer, wine, and soft drinks. Perfect. How about room service, and the dining options in general: Worth it?The food here is a real draw; much of it comes from the organic gardens right on the grounds. Breakfast, a theatrical production that's included in the room rate, taking over a 19th-century farm table each morning: homemade jams, fresh pastries and breads, local yogurts, charcuterie, fruit, eggs, and cheese, including pecorino and ricotta, all presented with Instagram-worthy flair. There's also daily lunch (poolside or in the whimsical garden) and you can order drinks throughout the day. Dinner is an otherworldly affair. You can also book an on-site cooking class and learn to make Tuscan classics like ribollita and pappa al pomodoro, fresh pastas with ragu, and tiramisu. It doesn't seem like we'll need to venture far for food, then. How'd you find the service?The staff here is invested in your stay. Everyone's warm and passionate. Excellent. Any other services or features you'd like to shout out? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Be sure to take a guided tour of the farm, taste the olive oil made on the estate, and visit the spa for blissful holistic treatments. Will do. Bottom line: worth it, and why?This is a magical spot that's beautifully designed and maintained." - Bridget Arsenault
