A Storybook Tuscan Setting at Borgo Scopeto Relais

Nestled on a hillside in the center of the sprawling Tuscan countryside, Borgo Scopeto Relais looks over the city of Siena. This 14th century villa has managed to perfectly balance the authenticity and character of its history with an elegant and contemporary in-room design. The Relais was a main filming location for “Letters to Juliet” and is where the entire cast stayed during shooting. It doesn’t take long to see why they chose this storybook setting.

Borgo Scopeto Relais Family-Friendly Review

Amenities

With two pools on the property, it was easy for us to see which one would be the best for children. Not wanting to disturb the quietly relaxing couples at one pool, we simply went to the other.

There is a wine tasting bar with a pool table in the lower portion of the main building and up above is a bar/lounge area. In the lower bar area, Scopeto offers wine tastings and cocktail events. There is a 24-hour gym and 24-hour reception service. The spa has liberal hours and includes a jacuzzi, sauna, a Turkish bath, and various spa treatments. It should be noted that children are not allowed in the spa area.

Vespas and bicycles are available to rent, there is babysitting available for a charge, a library area, room service, and wi-fi. Wine tours are available for booking. tennis courts, plenty of fields for playing. We never felt a lack for something to do.

A Peaceful but Welcoming Atmosphere for Families

The peaceful atmosphere of Borgo Scopeto lends to the perfect Tuscan getaway, with the open layout of the property allowing for children to play freely without the worry of disturbing others. My children loved the fields surrounding the property and even felt welcome to play with the other children at the villa in the main courtyard area.

The main building is filled with exquisitly designed sitting rooms and a lounge/bar area. While we felt comfortable passing through, this area seemed best suited for the bigger folks.

The Secret Garden

One of the most delightful parts of our stay included a visit to the secret garden. Without direction, you would never know it was there. The typical 18th-century garden, the “Roccolo”, with  age-old miniature oaks and rare plants, was initially an open aviary where the falcons used for hunting were trained and is maintained by the local university. The magical garden is directly out of a storybook. It is difficult not to imagine a young princess weaving in and around the the rock-lined pathways.

Guest Rooms

Each room retains its own lovely charm. We stayed in the free standing villa suite, which was more than enough room for all five of us. The original features of the building, like the timbered ceilings and the wooden shutters, evoke the feeling of authenticity. While the traditional yet contemporary design gives way to a feeling of luxury frozen in time. The spiral staircase inside of our suite leads to a perfect loft style room for two children, with a double bed and a television.

Restaurant

What was one the borgo’s cellars is now La Tinaia, Scopeto’s exquisite dining area. Serving typical Tuscan cuisine with a personal twist by their highly skilled chef. While having your meal, be sure to relish their freshly pressed olive oil along with the wine coming directly from Scopeto’s vineyards — the wine cellar is a quick drive away and worth the tour and visit.

The atmosphere when eating outside in the garden courtyard, with a view across the Tuscan countryside overlooking Siena, is just as exquisite as the food! With the friendly and hospitable staff swirling all around ready to provide you with whatever you need, you will want for nothing here.

Location

Less than a 30 minute drive to Siena, Borgo Scopeto Relais is a perfect location in the center of Tuscany. In about an hour’s drive,  you can reach San Gimignano, Volterra, Pienza, Montepulciano, and Montalcino. You couldn’t ask for a better location in Tuscany!

Need Help Booking a Room at Borgo Scopeto Relais or Planning a Family Vacation in Italy?

We can help! Our Family Vacation Consultants can do everything from booking accommodations, to developing full itineraries including kid-friendly activities. To request a room at Borgo Scopeto Relais, click Check Availability on the Borgo Scopeto family-friendly review in the CB! Hotel Collection. For full planning services, request assistance on our Connect with a Travel Advisor page.

Relevant Links

Top things to do in Tuscany with Kids

52 things to know before traveling to Italy with kids

Kid-friendly Tour Guides in Italy

Italy Travel Tips

Italy Family Travel: Things to do in Siena

Ciao Bambino recommended Italy family hotels, resorts, and villas

Editor’s Note: Laurel received a media rate at Borgo Scopeto Relais. As always, our opinions are our own on Ciao Bambino.