Hotel Il Pellicano

Reviewed by Joeri Van Overloop

Set the scene

From the moment you arrive at Hotel Il Pellicano in sunny Tuscany, you will be immediately enchanted by its striking beauty. The verdant terraced gardens offer a refreshing welcome, which is heightened by the magnificent view of the twinkling Tyrrhenian Sea just beyond. This little Eden, tucked away from the bustling streets, is a calming retreat for those who are seeking solace in the lap of luxury.

In the daylight, the hotel basks in the glorious Tuscan sun, making its terracotta hues glow radiantly. As you stroll through the manicured lawns, you'll find yourself soaking in the tranquility and the stunning panoramic sea views. When the sun dips below the horizon, the entire scene transforms. The intimate glow of the stately lamps against the deepening twilight sky adds a magical charm, while the gentle lull of the nearby sea serenades you throughout the evening.

What can we expect in our room

With their stunning blend of contemporary Italian design and a dash of Mediterranean charm, the rooms ensure a promise of comfort and relaxation. Their interiors, adorned with hand-picked artworks and elegant furnishings, pay tribute to the classic Tuscan aesthetics, while also managing to incorporate modern luxuries. From your plush, king-sized bed, you can gaze at the spectacular views of the sun-soaked Tuscan coast or the lush gardens that surround the property.

Each room is carefully designed to ensure ultimate comfort, equipped with state of the art amenities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, a coffee machine, and a mini-bar stacked with exquisite beverages. The marble-clad bathrooms are as luxurious as the rooms, showcasing a free-standing bathtub, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring Tuscany. Some suites also feature private terraces, where you can enjoy breakfast or a glass of the fine local wine.

How about the food and drinks at Hotel Il Pellicano

The hotel boasts a two Michelin star restaurant, led by talented Chef Sebastiano Lombardi. The delicacies prepared by the maestro use only the finest and freshest local produce, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean in each bite. Diners can enjoy seafood caught daily from the Tyrrhenian Sea, vegetables harvested from verdant Tuscan farms, and traditional Italian pasta rolled by hand.

Take a break between sightseeing and enjoy a refreshing cocktail at the hotel’s Pelligrill Bar. It takes the Italian tradition of aperitivo to another level, with an abundance of perfectly crafted cocktails and a selection of vintage wines such as Brunello di Montalcino hailing from Tuscany’s renowned vineyards. The bar also serves light snacks and salads, ideal for an afternoon nibble amidst the stunning backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.

What about the service

Known for their attention to detail, be it in setting up a candle-lit dinner at your preferred location, or arranging a unique sightseeing tour of Tuscany, they spare no effort to bring your wishes to life.

The service at Hotel Il Pellicano is equally exceptional, in sync with their promise to provide world-class luxury. It operates in a smooth and efficient manner – rarely does a customer find any reason to complain. The room service is prompt and impeccable, with staff exhibiting professional decorum at all times. There’s a concierge team on standby 24/7, ready to offer insightful advice on activities in and around the hotel.

What’s the neighbourhood scene like?

Silver-green olive trees, rolling hills blanketed with vineyards, and sunflower fields are as synonymous with the landscape as the medieval hamlets dotting it. Off the beaten path, visits to these idyllic smaller towns form part of the characteristic and welcoming rural charm of Tuscany. They act as serene breaks from the touristic hustle of larger cities - like the gems of Siena, Florence, and Pisa nearby - seemingly taking you on a time-travel journey.

Exploring further, adjacent Porto Ercole is a must-visit destination. This seaside town, cradled within the Monte Argentario promontory, is a convergence point of the usual Tuscan charm with the magnetic allure of a fishing village. Its marina, brimming with posh yachts and embraced by pastel houses dotting the shoreline, offers a laid-back vibe and amazing views.

The nearby nature reserve, Parco dell’Uccellina, invites to revel in its pristine beauty. And for a unique experience, visit the artisanal studios in Pietrasanta, just a little northward. It's here that most of the world’s marble sculpting happens!

What’s the backstory?

The hotel was born out of love in 1965 when British Aviator Michael Graham invited his American sweetheart, Patsy Daszel, a former Hollywood star, to the Tuscan coast. Enchanted by the sweeping sea views of the Argentario Bay, the pair decided to create a haven that epitomized the essence of romance, beauty, and luxury.

Their envisioned retreat came to life as Hotel Il Pellicano, a pet project that eventually transformed into an elite gathering spot for the jet-set class of the 1960's. The hotel's fame quickly swept through Europe, attracting royalty and celebrities such as Jackie Kennedy, who sought the tranquility and intimate luxury that was the hallmark of Il Pellicano. Well-kept guest-books over the years of the hotel's existence stand as a testament to its timeless allure, concealing countless untold stories of glamorous soirées and hushed rendezvous.

Price Range

Unlike the budget accommodations prevalent in the region, this luxury destination sets a different price range mirroring its superior offerings. As an aspiring guest, you may find the room prices hovering around €500 - €1100 per night during high season, reflecting the variations in room types and suite categories.

Amenities & Facilities

Unwind and let go of your worries in the hotel's luxurious spa which offers an extensive menu of treatments, built to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. For those who can't help but stay active even during their vacations, there's a fully-equipped fitness center lit by natural light, an essential accent that makes the training sessions just a bit easier. An outdoor saltwater pool, surrounded by lush greenery, is there to offer a relaxing swim or a lazy afternoon by the pool.

But that's not all. For discerning guests, who seek an immersive Italian culinary experience, the hotel offers cooking classes taken by experts in the field. You can burn off those calories from the cooking sessions in the tennis courts, available day and night, or engage in a variety of water sports available at the hotel's private beach. If you are on a business trip, you can make use of the fully serviced business center and meeting rooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

How to get to Hotel Il Pellicano in Tuscany

Contact:

Address: Località Sbarcatello, 58019 Porto Ercole GR, Italy

Phone: +39 0564 858111

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed within this article are the author’s alone, not those of any travel/leisure company, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.