La Bandita Townhouse

Owner John transformed an ancient Tuscan monastery into a intimate hideaway with twelve rooms. He did this while preserving the original elements, without compromising on comfort and luxury. In the middle of the beautiful town of Pienza, you can experience a wonderful holiday on Italian soil.

La Bandita Townhouse has been a massive hit since it opened in 2007. When owner John saw a former monastery for sale in the picturesque Tuscan Pienza, he took his chance and restored the 15th-century ruin to paradise. The monastery with vaulted ceilings now houses 12 rooms with queen size beds and modern bathrooms. Worn leather armchairs, soft Busatti bed linen, and Ortigia bath products complete the picture.

The centuries-old cells where the nuns once stayed have been transformed into charming, comfortable rooms. From the suites on the top floor, you have a beautiful view over the rolling Tuscan landscape, while the other side overlooks the bustling village street Corso Rossellino. In the open library, you can retreat with a good book or choose a spot in the green, walled medieval inner garden.

The townhouse is located right in the center of the historical town of Pienza. According to owner John, one of the most beautiful places in Tuscany. His tip: have an aperitif in Bar Castello, located within the medieval walls of the city, and travel back in time. In the charming hill village, you can still find artisanal cheese producers, handmade, and locally designed leather clothing, and restaurants where the pici (Tuscan pasta) is still rolled fresh every morning. In addition, Pienza is the perfect base for exploring the wine regions Brunello and Vino Nobile or cities like Florence and Siena.

Old meets new

With the entrance on Corso Rossellino, La Bandita Townhouse blends completely into the Renaissance character of the rest of the village. No exterior changes were made during the renovation. The nun's rooms have been transformed into 12 large guest rooms, where the vaulted walls and high ceilings are still intact. Modern furniture, spacious beds, luxury bathrooms, and air conditioning make it a perfect combination of old meets new.

Townhouse Caffè

For delicious food, you don't need to leave the house. The Townhouse Caffè serves you homemade La Bandita classics, such as zucchini flowers stuffed with ricotta in garlic tomato salsa, a bruschetta of peas and burrata, and other delicious, fresh, and regional ingredients. What do you want, with Tuscany as your backyard? Cute: in the small restaurant with open kitchen, guests interact with the chef. For an aperitif, you can join at the wine bar and breakfast can be enjoyed in the garden. Extra nice: children under five eat for free with their parents.

Local vibe

Owner John quit his job in New York years ago and moved to Tuscany with the impulsive idea of opening a small country hotel. The premise: to create a relaxed and luxurious retreat in a beautiful, peaceful setting for people like him. John stumbled upon La Bandita in Pienza and so it happened. At La Bandita, you don't feel like a tourist, but a local. As you gaze out the window of your room at the medieval alleyways, you hear the distant sound of street music, smell fresh pasta sauce, and wave to the old lady on the street. Hello Italy!

Under the Tuscan sun

The breathtaking landscape and rich history of Tuscany ensured that the area was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004. It's no coincidence that it served as a film set for movies such as The English Patient, Gladiator and Under the Tuscan Sun. There’s no shortage of attractions. From a day of strolling and soaking up culture in Florence, Pisa or Lucca to wine tastings or a cup of coffee in one of the many shady piazzas.