Relais Ortaglia

Sandy and Phil personally ensured that this gorgeous historical farmhouse provided every luxury you could ask for in today's elegant travel experience. The appointments in our suite far exceeded expectations. There was a perfect balance of rich heritage and modern lavishness with a stunning view of the ancient hilltop city of Montepulciano from our window.

If you are looking for an out of this world experience, you’ve got to book here! I did the total Tuscany 2024 in April and no detail was left out. Sandy and Phil arranged everything with the local-only experiences, opportunities we never could have booked on our own. The property is the definition of luxury and truly a VIP experience. The chef at the restaurant is top notch and every meal was delicious. Cannot rave about this place enough! The pictures of the view can’t begin to give it justice. You’ve gotta see it in person! Huge thank you to Sandy and Phil for treating me as part of the family - very important for a solo traveler!

I still don’t know how I found Relais Ortaglia (probably on TripAdvisor?), and every time people ask me that question I respond the same way: “I’m not sure, but I’m so happy that I did!” It was not only the highlight of my trip to Italy – it was the best travel property I’ve ever visited. I was nervous about travelling alone for the first time, but Sandy and Phil (and their adorable dogs) cultivated such a warm and welcoming environment I didn’t know was possible. I kid you not: 50% of the photos I took of my 16 days in Tuscany are of the property alone :) Phil and Sandy are not your typical innkeepers. They are master hosts who take their guests in like (well-fed) family. Their warmness and authenticity laid the foundation for a stay I will always remember. Being on my own abroad for the first time, I had my doubts about how connected I’d feel during my time in Italy, but the Ortaglia team made me feel like family – as did the other guests. Some of them were visiting for the first time, like me; others were back for their third and fourths summer in a row. Sandy and Phil also helped me plan incredible experiences to occupy me throughout my stay. One day they arranged for me to go horse back riding through the vineyards and their neighbor’s farm (after which that same neighbor gifted me a bottle of his homemade wine). One day I got to enjoy a delicious day of cheese-tasting at a local pecorino farm. One day they led me to a pig farm that still makes me smile. And the vineyards…oh the vineyards. The recommendations from Ortaglia lived up to the kind of expertise I would only expect from locals :). Sandy makes her guests a 5-star breakfast every monring that is almost too delicious and intricate to believe. Never before had I been so excited to wake up :). We’re talking freshly picked fruit, caprese salad from the garden (plus there were even avocados one day that Sandy had flown in from Israel!), plates of baked goods Sandy got up early to prepare, creative egg dishes that made me feel like I was back in New York, freshly squeezed juice. It was simply incredible. Did I mention Ortaglia has an infinity pool?! Grab a negroni from the bar and take in the vineyard that the property overlooks. I’m getting jealous just writing that… I also didn’t realize how comforting it would be having Phil and Sandy’s adorable poodles, Cooper and Maverick, by my side the whole time. I fell in love with them as much as I fell in love with Tuscany (Cooper and Maverick, if you’re reading this, I hope you’ve got a treat nearby!). Another thing to mention is the quality of their beds. OH MY. I didn’t even realize beds could be so comfy. As legend has it, Phil told Sandy shortly after they opened Ortaglia that there were two things they needed to nail if they were going to run a Bed & Breakfast: one was the bed, the other was the breakfast. A+ on both accounts! It’s hard to choose, but my favorite meal in Italy occurred at the Tuscan BBQ Sandy and Phil hosted for m

Relais Ortaglia - what a wonderful place. A fabulous Tuscan vacation experience from start to finish! We can not wait for our second trip to visit this Spring - I can only hope that there is availability as I wouldn’t want to stay anywhere else!!! This trip was more than a great trip - it really was a once in a lifetime amazing experience - filled with wonderful food & wine, friendships, exploration, history, adventure and lots of laughter & fun - oh and the best wine tasting tours and pasta making class EVER!!! All planned by Sandy - who is a constant wealth of knowledge … thank you so much!!! From the moment we pulled into Relais Ortaglia’s driveway, we were surrounded by such beauty and serenity … like what you would only expect to see in a movie! The landscaping and the gardens are beautiful. The accommodations were excellent - all the small details thought of …. inviting rooms, all decorated differently but all in ways that made you feel warm and cozy yet sophisticated and special. The bed was so comfortable with linens that were super soft. The picturesque views from my room were ones that made me wake up extra early so I wouldn’t miss the beautiful sunrise. Which was also a bonus b/c I wanted to be sure to start the day with the delicious breakfasts that Sandy and Phil made from scratch - don’t think I’ve ever had breakfasts so yummy and presented so beautifully!!!! Sandy and Phil are amazing hosts, really making our trip unforgettable. Sandy was so helpful with planning details and recommending places and activities that we never would have known on our own. She knows the ins and outs of what to do and where to go that only a local would. We loved seeing everywhere we visited through the eyes of a local and not just a tourist. Everywhere we went we were greeted with open arms and smiles. Sandy and Phil made us feel part of their Tuscany circle … introducing us to restaurant owners, farmhouse owners, wine makers , etc. Sandy also knows everything about everything and made learning about the history of Tuscany fun! Traveling across the world can be stressful even on the best vacations - and Sandy and Phil really take all the stress out of if for you. You feel comfortable and relaxed right away - freeing yourself up to just enjoy each day and what the Tuscan sun brings. Overall, we had a wonderful Tuscan experience and highly recommended staying at Relais Ortaglia,

We recently had the extreme pleasure of staying at Relais Ortaglia and perfection doesn’t begin to describe our experience. From the careful attention to every detail of our beautifully appointed rooms to the gardens, grounds, vineyards and olive trees engulfing the villa, every moment felt like a dream. The gracious owners Sandy and Phil added a personal touch to all aspects of our stay with their warm hospitality, extensive knowledge of the Tuscany region and much needed recommendations. Sandy’s homemade, spectacular breakfast extravagandas were a delicious highlight and start to each day. As we soaked in the beauty of the 17th century villa and its environment, we couldn’t help but wonder, are we in heaven? Our stay at Relais Ortaglia was nothing short of perfection. I cried when I left.”

If you're wondering whether or not you should book Phil & Sandy's place, just do it! The only negative about this place is that they didn't have enough nights available for us to stay longer! I traveled with a friend for two nights and we loved our room. It was comfortable, clean and the mini bar has everything you could need! We enjoyed beautiful breakfasts onsite in the morning and used Sandy's list of restaurants, day trips and activities to fill our days. We rented a car through Sandy's recommendation and were so glad we did! Parking is so easy and a car is definitely needed to venture out! We both decided that we would be back and would bring friends with us next time. Thank you Sandy, Phil, Coop and Mav for such a great experience! Can't wait to come back!

Our annual Christmas trip to Relais Ortaglia and Tuscany has become a cherished tradition for our family of 4. We've experienced five enchanting years, transforming this beautiful b&b into our Tuscan home away from home. Sandy and Phil, along with their amazing dogs Cooper and Maverick, extend a warmth that goes beyond typical hosts. Their hospitality during the season is nothing short of magical! From the tastiest cocktails to scrumptious a Christmas dinner, each moment is a celebration of joy and togetherness. While Relais Ortaglia is an adult only property, we were fortunate to rent the entire villa. Despite being adult-oriented, Sandy and Phil wholeheartedly welcomed our children. Our daughters, Sophia and Silvia, eagerly anticipate returning each year. And call them Aunt Sandy and Uncle Phil. Sandy's kid friendly activities and Phil's special touch, stemming from his background as a Disney animator, create magical experiences for our children. If you have the opportunity to rent the entire villa for your friends and family, including your children, we highly recommend it, as Sandy and Phil consistently craft unforgettable moments for our entire family, year after year. We wholeheartedly thank you for always making us feel at home.

Phil and Sandy were incredible hosts! The bed and breakfast grounds were stunning with many activities perfect for a romantic getaway. Centrally located at the base of Montelpulciano, Relais provided a perfect launch point to many incredible towns and wineries in the Tuscan region. The hospitality was unmatched, we really felt like family while we were there, and the food that Phil, Sandy and their small team made us for breakfast and dinner (highly recommend the BBQ dinner!!) was unbelievable. Highly highly recommend, we will be back!

There are few places I have stayed at that leave the kind of lasting memories and feeling of luxury, as Relais Ortaglia. After our first visit, my husband and I knew this would be our “go to” spot when visiting Tuscany. From the time you arrive at the property, you are greeted by the friendly Cooper and Maverick, as well as a friendly welcome from Sandy and Phil, you know this is not going to be your average vacation spot. Dating back to the 1650’s, the buildings have all the Italian Tuscan charm, but with all the modern updates and conveniences you could want. Sandy and Phil do not miss any details, as the property has ample spots to relax and take in the quiet countryside, while enjoying amazing views of the vineyards and even the hilltop town of Montepulciano. I cannot forget to mention the breathtaking sunsets too! Every night we enjoyed an amazing setting while watching the sky change from bright blue to orange and red, until the sun has gone down for the night. The rooms will also have you enjoying a beautiful view, with luxurious touches. Our bed, pillows, and linens, provided for the most comfortable sleep, ensuring we were well rested for the next day’s adventures. Details like fresh flowers, Aveda toiletry products, and top of the line shower area, made me feel like a queen. I loved the snacks and beverage selection in the rooms too, serving local products, which highlights the area. Waking up each morning is a joy at Relais Ortaglia, as Sandy provides a delicious homemade breakfast that will leave you with all the energy needed for the day, such as homemade tarts, avocado toast, their own honey farmed by their bees served with local cheese, and eggs too! Phil always kicked our morning off right, with a tasty cappuccino, decorated with his own artisan flare. As for things to do, the list is extensive! Whether you want to relax in take in the sun by their gorgeous infinity pool, enjoy horseback riding, taste the fabulous wines of the area, or explore the local towns taking in the history and doing some shopping, you can do as much or as little as you want during your stay. Sandy and Phil are always helpful in providing tips, making reservations, and doing everything they can to ensure you have the most amazing time, and we certainly did. We have enjoyed seeing their updates over the year and are excited for their new additions (pool side bar, new suites), and plan to return soon to explore and enjoy these amenities, and all that they offer. Highly recommend, whether you are looking for a romantic setting, a more adventurous time, or to just relax, Relais Ortaglia has it all.