Il Falconiere is not a hotel. It's a destination. And an exquisite destination at that. The grounds are gorgeous and the views of Val d’Orcia and the mountains beyond are breathtaking. Without exception, the staff was gracious and friendly. Their attention to detail is simply awe-inspiring. My wife and I happened to meet one of the owners, Silvia Baracchi, one evening outside the main (Michelin star) restaurant. Less formal meals are generally eaten on the terrace, but it was chilly and we had hoped we could be seated in a room off the main dining room while still ordering from the terrace menu. Ms. Baracchi consulted with the maître d’ and they agreed to our request. It all seemed to us like a lot of bother, though, so we opted to go the bar, instead, and were shown to what turned out to be a private room. I love this story because it reveals so much. First, Ms. Baracchi didn’t tell her maître d’ what to do – she asked him. She clearly respects her employees. Second, they were ready to make an unusual accommodation for us. Finally, after we were seated in the room off the bar, Ms. Baracchi returned to check on us and decided that we needed a flower for our table. It was a lovely gesture by a lovely woman who values her guests. Our room, in the building overlooking the pool, was large, beautifully decorated and comfortable. If you’re into Michelin dining, you won’t be disappointed (we weren’t!). The less formal dining, however, is every bit as good – especially on the terrace with its sunset views. The breakfast buffet is large, varied and delicious. Note that Il Falconiere is not in Cortona – it’s 15 minutes off by car, in a much more secluded spot. The location, of course, has its pluses and minuses, and caused us to (happily) opt to eat dinner at the hotel all three nights rather than venture into town. The last half-mile to the hotel can be a little harrowing, because you’re on a narrow, one-lane road. If you meet a car coming from the opposite direction, someone must back up until you find a wide spot where one of you can pull over. That only happened to us once, and it worked out fine, but be prepared. We paid for our room in advance, as part of a larger package that wasn’t broken down in much detail, and so I can’t speak to whether Il Falconiere was a “good value.” But I can certainly attest to it being a truly lovely experience that we will never forget and hope to replicate soon.

Out of my 3 week trip throughout Italy, my time at Il Falconiere Relais & Spa was the BEST! From the stunning views, impecable accommodations, and outrageous hospitality of the staff, my time there was like a slice of heaven on earth. No detail was left unattended and the friendliness and generosity of the owner and her staff was greatly appreciated. Tuscany may have brought me there but the staff and experience will bring me back!

We (myself, wife, 11 y/o son and my parents) spent 4 days/3 nights at Il Falconiere. Service - excellent; welcoming. Grounds - beautiful (albeit, we had cold, overcast/poor air quality days which prevented any pool time). The location is a short ride to Cortona proper. Excellent Spa, no exercise options. We could see the potential but the weather really compromised our stay. Probably more worth the value when it's nice and more "Tuscany-ish". The surprising disappointment was their "Michelin Star" restaurant. The breakfast is quite nice (but they charge extra for things like egg dishes, felt a little nickel-and-dime like). We were so looking forward to the dinner but they fell flat. With the expectations of other starred restaurants, things like having to ask to have our wine refilled, having flies on the bread and when they offered our son an off menu "hamburger", they literally gave him one plain hamburger patty was almost laughable. The staff were "stiff" and seemed to be trying too hard. Too bad as their sister restaurant Locanda del Molino was a fantastic and much more enjoyable experience (save your $ and eat there instead). But visiting during good weather and skipping their dinner, it'd likely be worth it.

A very pleasant stay where everything just felt right. The food was impeccable from breakfast to lunch to dinner. Dinner was enjoyed outside with a great view to accompany great food and first class service. Our room full of character was located a short distance from the restaurant and breakfast area providing us a walk in the garden on our way. The spa and pool area added pleasure and relaxation to our stay.

We loved everything about Il Falconiere. The delicous food, the relaxing spa, the beautiful room and the super fun cooking class. I have been bragging about this place to all my friends and family because it's a must see. Sylvia Baracchi, the owner and Michelin Chef was an amazing host and made us feel so welcomed. You have to take her cooking class when you visit! Bravo to all of the staff too!