La Bandita Townhouse

Right in the heart of the Renaissance crumbling charm of Tuscany's Pienza in Val d"Orcia, the chilled La Bandita Townhouse is the boutique hotel of rural sister La Bandita Countryhouse – and whilst both share owner John Voigtmann’s cool styling DNA of urban design – they are each matched to the heritage of their sublime locations, making them pleasingly related, but subtly different.

La Bandita Townhouse is etched in the history of Pienza. A former convent, the exteriors were largely left untouched adding instant romantic appeal and a sense that this place is part and parcel of the town’s fabric – which indeed it is. The interiors bring on boutique design with soft luxury – bright airy rooms decorated in strikingly simple yet intricate prose, including the signature use of lemon to accent each suite. 

Salvaged pieces, well-turned books and music add unfussy culture and a wink to nostalgia. The courtyard gardens and terrace play host to the in-house restaurant of Tuscan delights – also a perfect pitch for the Apero or late night drinkies with friends.

La Bandita Townhouse is Pienza captured in an all-encompassing moment, delivered with imaginative boutique charm and passion.

Being a former convent, the size and shape of the nun’s cells were modest and linear. With subtle renovations, 12 guest rooms were created into more spacious bedrooms, whilst keeping to the familiar traditions of Italian village architecture. 

Ceilings are soaringly high and windows overlook the stone village lanes, allowing you a bird’s eye view on the happenings of local life.

Parquet flooring, beamed ceilings and exposed stone walls that date back centuries characterise the rooms, giving a glimpse into heritage past. However, the rooms have been touched by a modern hand, with accent colours of bold yellows and reds, modern designer furniture, ‘floating’ beds and freestanding stone tubs with Ortiga products from Sicily. From the top floor suites, you have sweeping views across the Val D’orcia to Montepulciano, Montefollonico and Monte Amiata.

Casual, relaxed and in sync with the soul of Tuscany - the little Townhouse Caffe is soul satisfyingly good with honest home cooking using produce from the village and farmsteads.  

The open kitchen lends an air of familiarity where you can chat with the chef - sitting in the garden is also a delight. This is where breakfast is served in typical La Bandita style - local with luxury urban touches that make us feel good.

Standing among the Renaissance-aged buildings on the Corso Rossellino, La Bandita Townhouse is in the heart of ancient Pienza, close to the Palazzo Piccolomini and the Cattedrale dell 'Assunta.

Step out onto the cobbled streets and soak up the atmosphere of Pienza in all of its glory, a working village where the townsfolk meet to chat, sing and occasionally dance in the main square. Here pecorino, wines, spices and local produce are sold, as well as it being home to a dozen or so bustling trattorias.