Escape to Pienza, an idyllic medieval city that is small in size but grand in character. Tucked away amongst its golden-stoned buildings, La Bandita Townhouse is a hip oasis of modern design with exceptional cuisine and a laid back vibe.
Highlights
La Bandita’s medieval exterior reveals a hip, contemporary interior with the feel of a Manhattan loft apartment
Staying here is much like staying in a friend’s home; a vinyl collection and record player join a small library of books in the lounge, along with an honesty bar and sociable atmosphere
Pienza is tiny and stepping out of the hotel you’re surrounded by the medieval architecture, palaces, churches and piazzas of this postcard-perfect Renaissance city
Beyond the ancient city walls lies the UNESCO World Heritage listed Val d’Orcia with its vineyards, olive groves and cypress-tree lined hills
Owned and run by a former New York music executive, La Bandita is achingly cool, a trendy enclave at the heart of one of Tuscany’s most picturesque spots, Pienza. Perched on a hilltop, Pienza’s ancient streets gaze out over sun-dappled hillsides lined with poker-straight cypress trees and rambling vineyards, a spectacular landscape that encompasses renowned wine-growing regions such as Montepulciano, Montalcino and Brunello as well as the heritage wonder of Siena.
Though housed in a 15th century former convent, La Bandita brings more than a dash of New York style, with dazzling white walls, exposed brickwork, sleek lines and modern furniture. The twelve rooms are minimalist, combining original features such as wooden beams with contemporary design and bright pops of colour. Air-conditioning, Ortigia bathroom amenities and cloud-like bedding create a dreamy escape, while views from the window remind you of the ancient splendour that lies just outside the door.
Whilst small, the hotel contains a pretty impressive range of facilities, including one of the city’s most popular restaurants, a private garden, library and a small spa with jacuzzi (payable locally). With a Scottish chef, David Mangan, at the helm, The Townhouse Caffe brings a contemporary twist to Tuscan cuisine, making the most of the seasonal, fresh produce provided by the fertile fields, orchards, vineyards and olive groves of Tuscany.
Step outside the front door of La Bandita and you’re immediately at the heart of Pienza. Originally conceived as a model Renaissance city in the 15th century, this tiny jumble of honeyed stone and cobbled streets is as picture-perfect as they come. Ancient walls are festooned with flowers, old Italian women chatter across narrow alleys and people spill out of cafes onto sun-drenched piazzas. Further afield, the wine estates of Montalcino and Montepulciano offer wine tastings, while San Gimignano and Siena are steeped in medieval history.
Offering a laidback, relaxed break within reach of some of the most beautiful spots of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Val d’Orcia, La Bandita is a superb option for couples looking to unwind without straying too far from the food, wine and cultural delights of Tuscany.
When to visit
Drop into the library/lounge in the evenings for free cheese, an honor bar and optional conversation with fellow guests. Spin a '70s or '80s vinyl LP on the record player or borrow a yoga mat for a post-tour stretch.
Speak to an Expert on Italy
Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure.
Enquire NowLa Bandita Townhouse is situated in Pienza in the Val d’Orcia region of Tuscany. It is around a 2-hour drive from Florence, or 2.5-3 hours from Pisa.
Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco
Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco in Tuscany is an exclusive country estate offering luxurious suites and villas with private heated pools, exceptional cuisine and great outdoor activities, set against the magnificent backdrop of the Val d'Orcia.
Castel Monastero
Castel Monastero is a beautiful and unique hotel housed entirely in a perfectly restored medieval hilltop village. With a fantastic spa and stunning menus overseen by Gordon Ramsay, Castel Monastero is a must for any Tuscan adventure.
Borgo San Felice
Sink into an oasis of rural luxury in the heart of Tuscany, immersed in vineyards, with an abundance of facilities this is paradise found. This former hamlet has been transformed into a luxury hotel estate, nestled in the beautiful Chianti region.
Borgo Santo Pietro
This stunning boutique hotel located in the heart of the Tuscan countryside exudes charm and history. The lovingly converted 13th century villa, the centre of Borgo Santo Pietro, offers guests a luxurious haven in which to relax and unwind.
Castello di Reschio
Located just within the Umbrian border, Castello di Reschio, a recently-renovated grand estate, offers guests a slice of timeless Italy. Find yourself in the Tuscan hills by Andalusian horseback, indulge in homemade produce, or simply unwind by the pool.
Belmond Castello di Casole
Belmond Castello di Casole commands a prominent hilltop position, offering magical views of the Tuscan countryside, combining Old World Tuscan charm with modern boutique luxury, elegance and sophistication.
COMO Castello del Nero
The beautifully converted 12th century COMO Castello del Nero is nestled in the undulating hills of the Chianti region of Tuscany. Siena, Florence and Pisa are just a stone's throw away and you can take your pick from superb local Chianti wineries.
Borgo Pignano
Cocooned in 750 acres of organic farmlands, landscaped gardens and rolling Tuscan countryside, Borgo Pignano is housed in an 18th century villa, cottages and farmhouses with exceptional views and one of the most picturesque pools imaginable.
The Sense Experience Resort
A refined eco-luxury retreat in Tuscany’s Maremma, The Sense Experience Resort blends beachfront living and gourmet dining with sustainable design, serene rooms, and immersive experiences in nature for a truly unforgettable coastal escape.
Wine Tasting at Borgo Pignano
Enjoy a wine tasting session in Borgo Pignano's medieval wine cellar, where you'll have the opportunity to taste a selection of local organic wines, as well as those produced on the estate.
Wine Tours of Tuscany
Discover first hand the reason Italian wines have become some of the most well known and best loved wines in the world.
Cooking classes at La Canonica
Learn how to make some of Tuscany's classic dishes at La Canonica cooking school at Castiglion del Bosco, alongside expert chefs who will guide you in the art of creating authentic Tuscan cuisine.
Wine tasting and lunch in Chianti
Journey through Chianti’s rolling hills to two renowned wineries. Enjoy guided tastings, a private cellar visit, and a relaxed wine-paired lunch—all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Tuscany’s vineyards and olive groves.
Tuscan cooking class
Discover the art of Tuscan cuisine with a private cooking class at a local farm. Under the guidance of a local cook, you'll learn how to prepare traditional recipes and then enjoy your dishes for lunch.
Cooking class at Borgo Pignano
Learn the art of Tuscan cooking with a class at Borgo Pignano, where ingredients from the farm and vegetable garden are used to create the freshest dishes with a real farm-to-table ethos.
Meet with local pecorino cheese maker in Val d'Orcia
Soak up the wonderful atmosphere of daily family life on a this wonderful cheese farm, meet the animals, observe the production and taste a gourmet display of local cheeses.
Truffle hunting at Borgo Pignano
Explore the forests of Borgo Pignano's estate with your experienced truffle hunter and their dog, searching for renowned Tuscan truffles, and discover the unique skills required to find these famous treasures.
Wine tasting in Montalcino and Montepulciano
Spend a day discovering the delights of Tuscan wine as you explore the charming towns of Montalcino and Montepulciano, both renowned worldwide for their wine production.
