Relais La Corte dei Papi Cortona - Tuscany.

The Relais La Corte dei Papi is immersed in strikingly beautiful countryside just a few kilometers away from the historic town of Cortona. The Relais La Corte dei Papi occupies a traditional 18th century residence which has been lovingly restored and transformed in 4 star "Period Residence".

The hotel has just double rooms, junior suites and suites, all individually furnished with antique pieces, sumptuous drapes and fine crafted linens. Many of the rooms have wonderfully romantic baroque style canopied bedsteads and fabulous painted beamed ceilings.

The restaurant of the Relais La Corte dei Papi is located in the old wine cellar of the villa and guests eat in a fascinating dining room with exposed stone walls, beamed ceilings and traditional terracotta floor tiles. The seasonal menus feature the finest traditional Tuscan cuisine using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Bread, pasta and desserts are all made by the chef and this team. The wines have all been carefully selected so as to ensure the perfect accompaniment to each and every meal.

In the long warm summer months the poolside gazebo offers the perfect venue for outside dining. Those guests wishing to discover some of the secrets of the Tuscan gastronomic tradition might like to enrol for one of the Relais La Corte dei Papi's cooking courses and attend a master class by one of the region's top chefs. When not relaxing in the luxuriant gardens or by the swimming pool, guests may like to partake in a guided tour of the local wineries or explore the town of Cortona, one of the oldest urban settlements in the whole of Italy.

The town has Etruscan origins and, not surprisingly, Cortona's Etruscan Museum houses some of Italy's most outstanding archaeological findings. Most of the buildings in the historic center date back to Medieval times. For those wishing to explore slightly further a field, the Tuscan cities of Arezzo and Siena and the towns of Northern Umbria are all within easy driving distance. Ideal location for wedding receptions and private parties, the Relais Corte dei Papi is available for exclusive rent.