Within the ancient walls of Cortona, a Tuscan hilltop town of exquisite charm, lies the Monastero di Cortona Hotel & SPA. This five-star boutique establishment, a meticulously restored 15th-century monastery, presents a unique experience where history and contemporary luxury converge.
The structure retains its original architectural grandeur, with vaulted ceilings, expansive corridors, and captivating frescoes, providing a tangible connection to the region’s rich past. From its elevated position, the hotel commands panoramic views of the Val di Chiana, creating a striking visual context for a stay steeped in Tuscan serenity.
Beyond the established fine dining of “Gli Affreschi,” the Monastero now introduces “L’Osteria del Santo,” broadening its culinary narrative with a focus on authentic Tuscan tradition, presented in a more relaxed setting.
In the heart of Cortona, within the Arezzo province, the Monastero di Cortona Hotel & SPA anticipates its reopening after the winter recess, presenting freshly curated experiences that enhance its distinguished array of services. The five-star, a restoration of a 15th-century building, encompasses 36 rooms and suites, the ‘Bagni di Bacco‘ SPA, located within the original water cistern, and the ‘Gli Affreschi’ restaurant, which interprets and refines Tuscan culinary traditions.
The reopening, scheduled for March 27th, marks the culmination of the Poli Family’s restoration efforts, conducted in collaboration with Architect Enrico Lavagnino, resulting in a space that harmonizes historical elements, artistic features, natural surroundings, and refined cuisine.
The 2025 Novelties at Monastero di Cortona: L’Osteria del Santo
A notable addition for 2025 at Monastero di Cortona is the opening of ‘L’Osteria del Santo,’ a new restaurant designed to complement the established fine dining of ‘Gli Affreschi.’ Featuring a distinct format, ‘L’Osteria del Santo’ focuses on traditional Tuscan cuisine served in a more relaxed setting, with lunch service available alongside the evening dining at ‘Gli Affreschi.’ Chef Michele Ricci and his team will oversee both culinary venues.
Located in the same breakfast space, ‘L’Osteria del Santo’ features ten indoor and seven outdoor tables. While maintaining the Monastero’s commitment to quality, the cuisine reflects the spirit of a traditional osteria, showcasing regional flavors. The menu includes homemade pastas, such as pappardelle with porcini mushrooms and egg pasta ‘stracci‘ with Chianina ragù and 24-month Parmigiano fondue, as well as classic Tuscan ‘gnudi,’ local cured meats and cheeses, ‘pappa al pomodoro,’ and a selection of grilled meats, fish, and cheeses.
Further enhancing the Monastero’s amenities is a new terrace within the solarium area, adjacent to the outdoor pool, providing an expanded space for leisure and relaxation.
Montaperti’s Echoes: A Refined Tuscan Dining Experience
Named for the captivating frescoes unearthed during its meticulous restoration – whispers of the Battle of Montaperti, some experts suggest, from 1260 – ‘Gli Affreschi‘ prepares to welcome discerning diners. This year, a subtle expansion sees a few more tables grace the space, yet the restaurant retains its signature intimacy. The bar counter’s graceful relocation to the terrace now seamlessly blends the indoor ambiance with the allure of the open air.
Chef Ricci’s culinary expertise is evident, his profound understanding of ingredients shaping Tuscan tradition into a refined, contemporary dining experience that highlights the natural flavors of the raw materials. Options include an à la carte selection or two curated four-course tasting menus: ‘Sapori Toscani,’ a celebration of regional flavors, and ‘Dal Mare,’ a popular exploration of seafood, featuring dishes such as roasted squid with pea cream and its ink.
Chef Ricci’s signature creations reappear, each a testament to the season’s bounty. An amuse-bouche of ‘pappa al pomodoro‘ sets the stage, followed by a delicate chicken liver pâté paired with crisp green apple, a Cortona Vermouth gel, and savory cantuccio. Hand-pulled pici, bathed in a creamy cacio e pepe with Cortona saffron, and a tender beef sirloin accompanied by potato millefeuille and herb ash, further showcase his refined approach.
Beyond the exquisite meats and pastas, vegetables are celebrated with equal fervor. They not only complement but frequently command the plate, presented in a symphony of textures and vibrant hues, straight from the garden. This dedication to seasonal produce culminates in the restaurant’s innovative ‘Ingredient of the Month’ menu. Each month, three distinct dishes are crafted around a single star ingredient, offering a unique tasting journey. The inaugural menu highlights the delicate nuances of asparagus.
From Cortona’s Hills to World-Class Recognition: The Monastero’s Wine List
Curated by maître and sommelier Taziana Lai, the wine list is undergoing expansion, aiming to surpass 300 labels, featuring an extensive selection of premier Tuscan appellations, including Cortona, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Chianti, and Bolgheri. While regional offerings are prioritized, the list also includes representative selections from Piedmont, Veneto, Sicily, Abruzzo, and Puglia. The cellar’s capacity is being increased to accommodate this growing inventory. Notably, the wine list received a Wine Spectator glass in 2024 and was recently awarded 1 star by The World of Fine Wine.
Monastero di Cortona: The Structure
Opened in 2019 after careful restoration work carried out in accordance with the Superintendence of Monuments of Arezzo, the Monastero di Cortona, overseen by engineer Enzo Poli and Architect Enrico Lavagnino, preserves the ancient charm and tranquil aura of a monastery while offering all the amenities and comforts of a modern five-star hotel. Guests can admire the ancient layout of the convent structure, including beamed or vaulted ceilings, imposing corridors, loggias, and magnificent frescoes.
The hotel’s centerpiece is the garden with a pool. Located on the splendid terrace overlooking the Val di Chiana, once the Friars’ orchard, it offers the perfect atmosphere for relaxation. The 36 rooms and suites are converted from the ancient cells, each with unique features.
The Monastero di Cortona Hotel & SPA is part of the Cronos Retreats Group, which also includes La Villa del Re, a five-star hotel in Costa Rei, Sardinia, and the Hotel Barocco in Rome’s Piazza Barberini.