Agriturismo Palazzo Bandino - Wine Cellar, on Reservation Restaurant and Spa

In April I spent a month at Palazzo Bandino. The vines were almost bare with just a few budding leaves. Marta told me I should come back again in the fall; they harvest the grapes in September and the olives in October. How could I refuse. As I pulled off the highway and headed down the dirt road I said to myself “I’m Home”. This second trip was even greater than the one in April. I did a lot of cooking in my apartment and Marta was surprised that I was such a good chef. As, promised, I got to witness the harvesting of the grapes and drink some of the first juice. Watched the harvesting of the olives which was not what I expected. All the leaves throughout the area are turning colors which provided a spectacular Autumn vista every day. I get to see the 3 boys before and after school each day. One day there was a knock on my door. When I opened it, nobody was there. A few minutes later there was another knock but this time I was quicker and just caught a jacket ducking behind the wall. How great to be staying in someone’s home and being adopted by the kids who treat you like family, tricks and all. This second stay was twice as long and I got to visit and make friends with many of the other guests. All I heard were positive comments of how great the spa was (which I frequented often), how great the dinners were, sampling 7 different wines but the comment I heard most was they felt they got the best value for their dollar. They were all jealous hearing I was there for 2 months. Guests who stayed 1 or a few days all enjoyed the stay, but it was those who stayed the longest that really got to appreciate everything that Palazzo Bandino has to offer. You truly are treated like part of the family. One couple boasted this was their 17th stay. I still had all my good friends in town to visit from April, but I met even more I kept getting adopted into families. I attended 2 festivals and five birthday parties. Chianciano is my town and Palazzo Bandino is my home. All good things come to an end. As I was driving up the dirt road with suitcase in the back I said, “I’m leaving home to go home”.

We very much enjoyed our time at Palazzo Bandino, despite being just a few short days. The apartment (Colombaio) was perfect for our requirements (3 of us, a double bed and a single bed) a spacious bedroom, generous lounge and kitchen. top floor so no one above us and clean. The staff were very friendly, spoke great English (if your Italian is as bad as mine!) and was always willing to help. This transferred into breakfast where you find your host readily available for coffee, fresh eggs and toasted sandwiches on top of the big buffet they have available. We didn't get time to try the pool, but the area looked peaceful and again clean. Parking was not a problem, there were plenty of spaces. Nearby is lots of amenities and its not too far out from Montepulciano.

Beautiful agro-hotel where they make all their food, olive oil, and most importantly their wine. Super close to Pienza, Montepulciano and other amazing Tuscan cities. Accommodations are very clean and straightforward. Highly recommend

We had a lovely stay and especially enjoyed the dinner with typical Florentine T-bone steak and Tuscan antipasto. It was cooked to perfection. The breakfast was varied and plentiful and they had eggs cooked to order. Marta was a terrific host and gave a very interesting tour of the winery before dinner. Would highly recommend.

Absolutely beautiful property in the countryside of Siena. The wine and olive oil iare delicious and the food is wonderful. This business has been in the family for 8 generations and they have honored and maintained the history and culture over the years. We chose well. :)

This property is stunning. It is exactly what it says it is. Beautifully decorated with pieces appropriate to the farm. The pool is very nice and refreshing on a hot day. The washing machine was a great addition to freshen up your clothes after travelling. The owners are extremely helpful. Full of recommendations and suggestions. The breakfast is unbelievable and if you have a chance to sign up for the dinner it is out of this world!!! Can’t wait to go back.