The beauty of simplicity is their motto. Casanuova was once a monastery, then an orphanage…. now the Besançons work hard on the production of their organic wine and olive oil here, along with cookery and yoga classes. They are a hospitable family: fresh menus are chalked up on the board each day; meals, served at large tables under the vines, are happy events, open to the public. Off the refectory is a library where you can pore over trekking maps at a big round table. Just a short stroll from the house are two apartments for self-caterers, one up, one down. But we recommend the B&B rooms, spotless and charming, furnished with natural fabrics (no TVs) and with a serenely monastic air; bathrooms are equally delightful. This is a real family business: Ursula and Thierry have made it what it is today and their sons will create the future. Wander the delightful garden with its green corners, inviting terraces and a secret herb garden. Best of all, in a clearing in the woods, is a natural, self-cleansing bio pond with lily pads, surrounded by decking.
Casanuova is a haven of calm and tranquillity, whilst wonderfully accessible, either via Chianti or straight down from Florence. Thierry and Ulla went out of their way to make me feel cherished as a solo traveller, especially at dinner when nationalities and stories mingled with ease. Giulia, Barbara and their talented team created the most delicious meals from the organic bounty all about them: the aroma before suppertime was tantalising from my room above. Here the "Bellezza della Semplicità" translates into a deeply thoughtful, tasteful emphasis on what really matters. Thank you all.