Relais Palazzo del Capitano San Quirico d'Orcia - Tuscany

The Palazzo del Capitano is situated in the center of the Medieval town of San Quirico d'Orcia, within the "Parco della Val d'Orcia" which, in 2004, became an UNESCO world heritage site. The building, one of the oldest in San Quirico d'Orcia, was built in the 15th century by the powerful Biringucci dynasty whose family crest can still be found on the main facade on Via Poliziano.

Recent restoration work has returned the Palazzo del Capitano to all its former splendour, and has resulted in the building's transformation in a small, authentically Tuscan, hotel. The Palazzo del Capitano has 16 bedrooms, the interiors of which are characterized by exposed wooden beam ceilings and terracotta floors. The rooms, each with the name of a different zodiac sign, are furnished with precious antiques and exquisite bed linen and drapes.

The wine bar and restaurant "Petessi" has been named after the former Capitano del Popolo of San Quirico d'Orcia who lived in the building during the 15th century. What once served as stables have been converted in a charming restaurant with bar. The rooms have large vaulted ceilings and feature an immense open fireplace. In the summer months, meals are served in the private garden of the hotel under the shade of the olive trees.

As of April 2008, a number of additional features await guests coming to stay at the Palazzo del Capitano, including 5 brand new "Wellness Suites", the "Salone del Zodiaco" lobby', the "Venus' Suite" wellness centre, and a new shop in which to purchase fabulous face and body products made from olive oil and aloe vera.

Each Wellness suite features a wonderfully romantic canopied bed, Jacuzzi with chromotherapy bath for two people, plasma television, mini-bar, fireplace and marble bathroom. In the hotel's "Venus' Suite" spa facility guests are able to indulge in a superb range of wellness treatments and use the steam bath, Jacuzzi and chromotherapy bath.

Guests dining at the restaurant of the Palazzo del Capitano, opposite the hotel, enjoy the finest traditional Tuscan dishes. The ancient cellar was discovered during restoration work and now houses an excellent selection of Tuscan wines including much acclaimed vintages of Brunello di Montalcino, Nobile di Montepulciano, Chianti Classico and local Orcia D.O.C.