From the moment I stepped onto the lush, rolling grounds of Borgo Santo Pietro, it was evident that this wasn’t just any luxury retreat. Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the estate seemed like a canvas painted with the finest hues of green and gold, dotted with ancient trees and shimmering fountains.

Arrival: Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Borgo Santo Pietro is just 1.5 hours drive from Florence and 40 mins from Siena. The journey up the cypress-lined driveway was nothing short of magical. As the sprawling manor came into view, I felt a warm sensation – a mixture of awe and a sense of coming home. The meticulously restored 13th-century villa, with its stone walls and verdant gardens, whispered tales of centuries gone by.

History: Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Then 20 years ago that Jeanette and Claus Thottrup, the owners, acquired the Borgo with its antique 13th century country house, which was just ruins at the time. Having spent long years converting the villa into a small boutique hotel of 8 rooms, they opened for business in 2008. Over the years, with their incredible vision and determination, Borgo is developed into a 5-star resort, consists of 22 rooms and suites. Jeanette, once a Danish fashion designer, with her sense of style, turned the Borgo into a charming retreat. Walking around Borgo Santo Pietro, we were impressed by the lush gardens filled with trees, shrubs, flowers, and herbs. Our noses caught the scents of lavender, lemon, rosemary, rose, and others. We spotted so many perfect spots for relaxing, taking a nap and reading a book.

Accommodation: My “La Casa dei Fiori Bianchi Pool House” was a dream woven in Tuscan elegance. Rich fabrics, rustic wooden beams, and an opulent bathroom decked in marble – every aspect exuded a sense of bespoke luxury. The attention to detail was impeccable; from the hand-picked antiques to the beautiful private 36 m2 saltwater pool fitted with a jacuzzi and cascade for a touch of hydrotherapy massage.

Food: Dining at Borgo Santo Pietro was an adventure for the palate. Under the executive chef Ariel Hagen, the estate's farm-to-table ethos was evident in every bite. Fresh, organic ingredients from the estate's gardens transformed into sumptuous dishes that celebrated the rich culinary heritage of the region. The wine, sourced from local vineyards, was the perfect accompaniment.

Spa: I found solace in the depths of their therapeutic spa. The natural treatments, inspired by ancient rituals, were rejuvenating. Floating in the infinity pool, with the Tuscan sun kissing my skin, I felt the world's stresses melt away.

What is also worth mentioning is the amazing skincare line developed on the farm estate Seed to Skin, the brainchild of Jeanette Thottrup. Drawing inspiration from Borgo Santo Pietro, Jeanette championed a skincare range celebrating organic potency. Her holistic vision transforms nature's finest into rejuvenating elixirs, ensuring skin benefits from every seed's essence. With Jeanette at the helm, Seed to Skin showcases the symbiosis of science and nature. Her commitment to sustainability, purity, and efficacy makes each product a testament to her passion. Jeanette's Seed to Skin isn't merely skincare; it's an ode to nature's unparalleled beauty.

The estate wasn’t just about relaxation. It offered a plethora of activities. From truffle hunting in the woods to artisanal floral arrangement workshops and cooking classes with Mama Olga, every day was an immersion in Italian culture.

As I bid adieu to Borgo Santo Pietro, I took with me memories drenched in luxury, nature, and history. The estate was more than just a hotel; it was a testament to the timeless beauty of Tuscany.