Argenina

Tucked among rolling hills, vineyards and old cypress-lined paths, Argenina is a carefully restored hamlet in the Italian region of Tuscany. Once home to peasant families, it remains deeply rooted in its rural origins — with ancient stone walls, wood-fired ovens, old wells, and a church dating back to 998 AD, all still part of daily life.

Guests can choose between charming rooms with breakfast, in the style of a boutique B&B, or self-catering country houses ideal for longer stays or more privacy. Each unit has its own entrance, kitchen, and sweeping views. The interiors blend antique furniture, natural textiles, and quiet detail — refined but never ostentatious.

The houses are clustered around the ancient church like natural outgrowths of the land itself. Their names echo the life of the countryside:

• Il Melo (“The Apple Tree”) – intimate and restful, perfect for peaceful retreats.

• Rondini (“Swallows”) – airy and bright, open to the rolling landscape.

• La Pieve (“The Parish Church”) – beside the chapel, filled with quiet soul and history.

• Vigna (“Vineyard”) – rustic and fragrant, surrounded by vines.

• Nido (“Nest”) – small and tucked away, a romantic hideout under the rooftops.

• Villa Melina – the most private, ideal for extended, independent stays.

Mornings begin with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread, woodsmoke, and just-brewed coffee. Breakfast is homemade and seasonal — local cheese, garden fruit, cakes and jams, served with quiet hospitality. Later, guests can enjoy a swim in the panoramic pool, join a sunset yoga session, or unwind in the relaxation area, especially welcoming in spring and autumn.

A highlight of Argenina is the cooking school. In a bright, homely kitchen, traditional recipes are prepared together — hand-rolled pasta, slow-cooked sauces, dishes that feel like memory and belonging. The meal is then shared around the table, with laughter, good wine and stories exchanged as the light softens over the hills.

Surrounding the hamlet, you’ll find peaceful monasteries, walking paths, family-run trattorias and wide rural views. 

Good to know: Some of the houses are set along uneven or slightly sloping paths — having a car is recommended. While full of charm, the interiors are not equipped for very young children, and due to stairs and changes in level, the property may not suit guests with limited mobility. For those seeking authenticity, beauty and stillness, Argenina offers more than a stay — it offers a way of being.