We had a wonderful time here - in part because we had the place to ourselves. Why? Stefania explained that it is July, and most of the people traveling are Europeans with familes, so they want a pool and air conditioning. Montorio doesn't have these. But it does have a spectacular location. It sits on a hill just outside Montepulciano, overlooking the beautiful church, with a panoramic view of the nearby Tuscan hills, including Montepulciano itself. Our suite included a small kitchen, most of which worked. We prepared several meals and ate our on the grounds overlooking the views - this was fabulous especially since no else was there. The room was large, with a sitting area, bathroom, bed area and kitchen/breakfast table, and dining table. So lots of room.

Although it was very hot in Tuscanny, and the rooms don't have air conditioning - there is a nice breeze in the afternoons and evening in this area - so it didn't matter.

Stefania was very helpful and friendly - gave us good restaurant recommendations which, for the most part, overlapped with Rick Steve's recommendations. She speaks very good English as well.

We enjoyed walking back and forth to Montepulciano - up a steep dirt road past the cemetary. Probably a 20 minute walk to get into town that route, you should be in pretty good shape to do that one. Other routes are less steep - but will take longer. We had a car, but didn't use it since parking in and near Montepulciano is difficult. From Montario we also ventured out to Deruta, Todi, Montelcino, and other little Tuscan towns by car. So it was a great location to explore Tuscanny and Umbria. Siena is about 90 minutes away too.

The only negative - there were nearby barking dogs at night - a common thing in the counry. But with ear plugs we were able to sleep well. Also in the hot summer it would be nice to have a pool and or air conditioning.

Montorio is a former convent which has been divided into a number of self catering units. The one we stayed in was very comfortable, effectively a one bedroomed apartment with the necessary facilities. However, when you see the views this place has you will want to spend as little time as possible inside. For starters, it overlooks the church of San Biagio which was apparently designed by the same designer of St.Peter's in Rome, the view is just stunning. Montorio is perched on its own little hilltop offering panaormic views of southern Tuscany and beyond. There are tables and chairs including sunbeds provided allowing you to relax in the Tuscan sun. The owner Stefania is very helpful and has excellent English.

Montepulciano itself is a pretty town though hilly and is a great location to visit other southernTuscan towns such as Pienza etc. You will need a car as public transport is not good. I suspect the only reason why there are not more reviews about this place is that people want to keep it a secret!

Montorio is located on a knoll above the church of St. Biagio and below the town of Montepulciano, so you have great views of both and across the countryside. Stefania, who owns a hotel nearby as well, is a great source of information. Her English is excellent, and she offers great advice for touring and for restaurants nearby. The property is a group of apartments, from small to quite spacious, with kitchens. That's good because sometimes you just get overwhelmed with eating in restaurants every night. We stayed in two over seven days, and enjoyed being in the top one. It's all spotless and very well maintained, and also gated, which is nice because the road below is quite busy.

My husband and I spent 4 nights at Montario on our honeymoon. We had a 2 bedroom apartment with a kitchen and bathroom. It is a gorgeous old castle in the middle of Brunello wine country. From here we enjoyed beautiful sunsets in a very private setting. Montepulciano is close to Montelcino (vineyards) and a short drive from Cortona (cute artist town). The owner of Montario, Stephania, is incredibly friendly, helpful, and hospitable. All of her suggestions for restaurants and winerys were excellent! We felt very much at home and would go back in a heartbeat!