Locanda Rossa

Capalbio has remained the secret getaway for Romans looking for a seaside retreat close to the capital, and this property set in the vineyards above the Med is a well-priced but still luxurious hideaway.

• The huge pool with sweeping views
• The playground and general child-friendly ambience
• The sculpture garden with works by Niki de Saint Phalle

There is a serious dearth of contemporary, well-designed (and not exorbitantly priced) hotels along the Tuscan Coast, but even with that lack of competition, this spot, opened in 2010, created a new standard. The 12 rooms (ranging from standard-sized doubles to spacious suites), plus four apartments in a separate farmhouse, look onto 50 acres of vineyards and the sea in the distance.

One of the best aspects of the resort is its sense of space, with plenty of shaded areas, a large living room with a fireplace, a huge pool, and even a playground for the little ones in tow. (Many of the seaside hotels don’t even accept kids under 12, so the touches like a playground and friendly staff is particularly welcome). There is a nice restaurant that serves a small but local menu, and a tiny spa available for treatments booked in advance. Chic but understated, the rooms offer comfy beds with butter soft linens, Allegra Hicks–designed pillowcases, contemporary art, and coffee-table books on the area. It feels very much like its own retreat even though it’s still close to the charming town of Capalbio.

Don’t miss restaurant Il Frantoio and the tarot garden, Il Giardino dei Tarocchi, with its 22 sculptures by French-born artist Niki de Saint Phalle. Fabulous beach clubs like Vino e Rosso and Ultima Spiaggia (with their excellent restaurants and daybeds available for rent) are only a short drive away too. We recommend renting a car to drive to the sea or surrounding towns; there is a shuttle, but it is preferable to have your own wheels.

Locanda Rossa is perfect for both romance-seeking couples and families who want to relax beachside and explore the coast and towns of this gorgeous region. Riding, mountain biking, golf and sailing are all easy to arrange through the resort.