The Place
Anyone who is familiar with the writing of Iris Origo will be particularly interested in La Foce, the estate whose history during the Second World War is so vividly described in her book, War in the Val d’Orcia. Iris died in 1988, but her family still lives on this property in this remote but beautiful corner of Tuscany.
Several of the buildings on the large estate have been converted into self-catering houses, ranging from the delightful five-person Belvedere Piccolo to superb and quite grand Montauto, which sleeps ten; the latter is built around a central courtyard, providing privacy and a perfect space for outdoor dining.
Furnishings throughout the comfortable apartments are in sophisticated and tasteful country style, predominantly antique, but with a few well-chosen modern pieces. There is plenty of colour, provided by bright rugs, cushions and cheerful fabrics. Each has its own piece of private garden and the use of a pool.
There is also a bed-and-breakfast here, Palazzolo B&B, just 500 metres from the main villa. Like the rest of the estate, it has a long history as one of the farmhouses rebuilt by Antonio Origo in the 1930s. Originally built to house a large family, it now has seven bedrooms – 5 double and 2 twin. The decor is simple and colourful, well matched to the traditional building. The former stables have been converted into a spacious common area that can comfortably fit all 14 guests without being crowded.
The views here are unbeatable, from every window and poolside you can admire the endless stretches of unspoiled Tuscan countryside. Nothing short of idyllic.
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