The Place
An addition to the typically Tuscan farmhouse hotels that cluster around Castellina in Chianti, Il Colombaio is a successful example of a proven formula, and prices are still very reasonable.
As you come from Greve in Chianti on the busy Chiantigiana road (SS 222), you will notice Il Colombaio on the right, surrounded by lawns, shrubs and trees. Stone-built and capped with the tiledroofs at odd angles to one another so characteristic of Tuscany, the house has a pleasing aspect. It is, however, rather close to the road.
The restoration has been carried out with attention to detail, using country furniture to complement the rustic style of the building. The sitting room, which used to be the farm kitchen, is spacious and light with beamed ceilings, a traditional open fireplace and, in the corner, the old stone sink now filled with house plants.
Breakfast is served in a small stone-vaulted room on the terrace. The bedrooms have all been furnished with wrought-iron beds and old-fashioned dressing tables; all have modern bathrooms.
The lack of restaurant is not a problem as there are plenty of good eateries in the surrounding area, including Tre Porte and Sotto le Volte, both close by.