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Relais Sant'Elena: Tuscan Dwelling of History and Stone

Surrounded by soft hills and a flourishing countryside stands Relais Sant’Elena: an ancient Tuscan dwelling made of history and stone. The perfect location to enjoy the beautiful Tuscany surrounded by elegant interiors featuring earthy tones, antique furnishings and precious fabrics.

Relais Sant’Elena is a charming cottage located in the medieval Tuscan hamlet of Bibbona. Part of the manor Tenuta Gardini, this stunning property made of Tuscan stone speaks of history and family passion: built in 1600 to accommodate farm workers the property has been beautifully renovated.

Staying in this historical dwelling means to admire a secret Tuscan treasure, land of Etruscan and Macchiaioli: from this privileged location it is possible to reach the coast, the vineyards of the prestigious Wineries of Bolgheri, charming historic villages or enchanting churches and castles. The farm retraces ancient paths through the Tuscan land, always changing according to the seasons. A place of wellbeing and meditation where you can immerse yourself in the thousand shades of green that sway in the wind, in the fragrant hays marked by avenues of cypresses.

The property has been restored with ingenious mastery and transformed in a charming accommodation with sixteen rooms where the sophistication of the furniture – mainly antiques – and the wise attention to details make a difference. Each environment is characterized by understated elegance, with soft light to create a cozy, intimate ambience and characteristic details of Tuscan tradition. A succession of corridors and stone arcades, terracotta flooring and elegant nuances of the earth’s color carry the guest in a timeless atmosphere, treasure chest of antique family memories.

All the rooms are embellished with French fabrics and antique embroidered linen duvets, enhanced by the landscape colors of Tuscan hills. In these intimate nests, the guest feels completely enveloped in a warm, romantic atmosphere where stone walls, antique iron canopy beds, precious curtains and family furniture embody the charm of homes of the past. Each room is characterized by a tight contact with the surrounding landscape which seems to be painted, so romantic and untouched outside of the windows.

Handcrafted details and rustic aesthetics are embellished with precious and historic particulars such as crystal chandeliers, traditional ceramics, elegant hand-carved wooden furniture and traditional wrought-iron pieces. Intangible details complete this enchanting experience: the sensations of harmony, relax and domestic warm are enhanced by the presence of endless wheat fields and the rhythmic sound of cicadas out the window.

This splendid location also offers a curated selection of experiences deeply connected to the land. First of all, food: a triumph of traditional flavors and intense aromas and colors. Guests enjoy Tuscan delicacies at breakfast, lunch, and at dinner that in the winter usually take place in front of the crackling fireplace with the sweet aroma of bread, roasted chestnuts and red wine. The food experience includes exclusive cooking classes where the guest can learn the secrets of the authentic Tuscan cuisine, but also food and wine tours in the region’s most prestigious vineyard.

Last but not least, Relais Sant’Elena is a relaxation temple: a special area in front of the pool is in fact dedicated to body-mind wellness. Stone walls, small ancient windows, warm earthy tones and the magical view of the cypress trees, create an intimate relaxing atmosphere where the guest can indulge to the experienced cares of the holistic therapist.