This month I had the pleasure of visiting the outstanding Agrivilla I Pini in Tuscany. Based in the historic town of San Gimignano, a town that I visited as a child with my family, and I couldn’t wait to go back and visit again.
I Pini is taking leaps in front of the industry by offering a completely vegan, organic and sustainable stay. The villa has been lovingly refurbished with all natural materials, they have a zero waste and plastic free policy also! Winner!
01. Getting there
We took a quick flight from London Stansted to Pisa, you can also fly to Florence although Pisa seems to be a bit cheaper. After picking up our hire car (recommended for travel around Tuscany) we our on our way for a short 1h 20 journey. The drive there once off the motorway is pretty spectacular through tree lined twisting roads.
02. Arriving at the Villa
On arrival at the villa we were so excited and amazed by this beautiful property, it is a traditional Italian villa that has been modernised with stunning detail. We checked in and got straight out to the pool with a welcome glass of chilled organic white wine.
03. Rooms
There are 11 unique rooms at the villa, all decorated with antique solid wood furniture all made in Tuscany. Everything from the sheets to the electricity is ecological with all of the power coming from the solar panels. The rooms are a perfect place to have a digital detox with no TV and WiFi in the rooms, a rare thing these days and great to make the most of this opportunity. Rooms and bathrooms are beautifully detailed, I particularly love the lighting in the rooms and throughout the hotel.
04. Facilities
There is plenty to keep you busy at i pini, you can either relax by the pool, take a walk up to the viewpoint through the olive groves and vineyards with a picnic, have lunch on the terrace with a spectacular uninterrupted view of San Gimignano, or do some wine tasting and a cookery class. If you are looking to book for 2020 there will also be a beautiful new spa which is being constructed this winter.
05. Food
Its all in the name, Agrivilla i pini stands for a vegan natural cuisine. Thats right 100% organic and plant based! Think, fresh home grown seasonal and cooked just for you cuisine straight from the garden to your plate. It doesn’t get much better than that. Even if you are staying in the area i pini is open for breakfast lunch and dinner. You don’t have to be a guest to enjoy their delicious food. Mt favourite thing was the chocolate muffins and almond butter for breakfast…. YUM! There is also private free parking for guests and visitors. If you are a staying guest your breakfast and dinner is already included.
06. Local area
The local area is stunning so make the most out of being here by going on some local trails and bike rides if you’re up to braving the Italian roads by bike. Don’t forget to sample the world famous at Gelateria Dondoli.
A massive thank you to Agrivilla I Pini for our wonderful unforgettable stay, we loved every minute and can’t wait to go back.
