When travelers dream of Tuscany, visions of golden hills, sun-drenched vineyards, and lively piazzas often come to mind. Yet for those who venture beyond the peak summer rush, Tuscany’s off-season—known locally as the “Secret Season”—offers an even more enchanting side of the region. Cooler air settles over the rolling hills, harvest celebrations wind down into cozy traditions, and timeless villages invite slower, more authentic experiences. At the heart of it all is Borgo San Vincenzo, a luxury boutique hotel where history, wine, and hospitality intertwine.
A Reimagined Tuscan Borgo
Named after the patron saint of winemaking, Borgo San Vincenzo is a beautifully restored 18th-century borgo tucked amid the UNESCO-protected Vino Nobile vineyards of Montepulciano. The property features just 21 elegant studios and suites, blending Tuscan warmth with contemporary design. Its intimate scale and vineyard setting make it an idyllic base for exploring Tuscany’s countryside, with the medieval heart of Montepulciano—home to Central Italy’s largest Christmas market—just 10 minutes away.
Exclusive Off-Season Experiences
Visiting Tuscany in the off-season means fewer crowds, crisp weather, and special seasonal offerings. Borgo San Vincenzo leans into this slower rhythm with unique experiences:
- Daily indulgences: Complimentary midday olive oil tastings and Thursday Tuscan BBQs bring guests together in convivial style.
- The Winemakers’ Bar: A chic wine cellar and bar where private dinners, sommelier-guided tastings, and cocktail-making classes unfold.
- Il Ciuchino Restaurant: Where Tuscan tradition meets international flair, from tableside tiramisu to a rare wine-by-the-glass program.
For wine enthusiasts, autumn and winter bring a rare treat: the weekly Wines of Italy Masterclass, a five-course guided dinner pairing regional dishes with wines from across the country. On Mondays, the Wines of Montepulciano Masterclass dives deep into the area’s celebrated varietals, while the monthly Winemakers’ Dinner Series brings local producers to the table.
Beyond the Borgo: Immersive Tuscan Adventures
Borgo San Vincenzo curates off-season experiences that immerse guests in local culture. Guests can explore the countryside on foot, by horse, Vespa, or even hot air balloon. Personalized outings include truffle hunting in the woods, pecorino tastings at family-run farms, or visits to boutique wineries. These quieter months allow travelers to savor the land’s bounty without the summertime crowds.
Why Visit in the Off-Season
From the festive glow of Montepulciano’s Christmas market to the serenity of vineyard-dotted hills, Tuscany in its Secret Season is a revelation. Travelers discover a more authentic rhythm—meals linger longer, conversations with locals come easier, and the scenery, touched by autumn and winter light, feels more intimate.
At Borgo San Vincenzo, these moments are elevated with thoughtful hospitality, curated cultural encounters, and a refined sense of place. It’s Tuscany at its most soulful—made for travelers seeking not just beauty, but connection.
