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Small-scale, luxury hotel converted from a 14th-century monastery. The hotel’s best antiques are in the public areas, leaving rooms simple but well-appointed. There’s a small pool in the garden.

Now being refurbished to three-star status, the Bigallo has long been famous among the Florence budget-conscious for its views of the Duomo group. The only drawback is the noise of pedestrians on the streets below.

This was once a barracks for the Sienese army in their last stand against Florentine forces. Now its rustic rooms have serenity and comfort, with sweeping valley views from one side and lofted mini-apartments on the street side. There’s also a small pool on the terrace.

In 1998, as part of the restoration work, this 16-room hotel was installed in a wing of Sorano’s 13th-century castle. Rooms come with wooden ceilings, fantastic countryside views and 19th-century furnishings. And with the high breezes, there is little need of air-conditioning. Closed January and February.

The palazzo is 12th-century, but the rooms (some medium-sized, others cramped) are modern and comfy. The 12 “panoramic” rooms feature Duomo views, including a small top-floor double with windows on three sides and sweeping vistas.

Labyrinthine old budget hotel in an 18th-century palazzo. The comforts are basic, but it’s well-maintained and friendly. The rooftop gardens have a gate with direct access to the city’s pretty public park.

A turretted fortress from the Dark Ages anchors this wine and olive oil estate, where the eight apartments are spacious. There’s also a pool and mountain bikes for hire. No minimum stay.

A 12th-century castle and wine estate that rents six rooms (min 3 nights) and 2 apartments (weekly) in its complex of medieval buildings. Activities tend towards cantina visits and wine tastings, and the restaurant is good.

Fewer amenities but bags of style in this Renaissance villa. Six doubles and three triples (plus larger apartments available Apr–Sep). Three-night minimum in rooms; one week in apartments.

The four large, multi-level apartments, sleeping 4–6, are country-styled. Pretty gardens.