L'Andana Tenuta La Badiola

Super-chef Alain Ducasse's gourmet sanctuary situated amid the peaceful countryside of the Maremma close to the Mediterranean coast, 90 minutes south of Pisa. Three dozen guest quarters are housed in a stately villa and restored farmstead that was once the hunting residence of the Duke of Tuscany, most of the rooms affording scenic views of the 1,240-acre estate's olive groves and vineyards. The restaurant showcases the authentic regional cuisine of chef Christophe Martin, a protégé of Ducasse at his 3-star Louis XV in Monte Carlo. Heated 60-foot outdoor pool, sophisticated spa and nearby national park hikes and marine activities, including excursions to the lovely island of Elba.

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What's Hot, What's Not

Globe Firsthand summaries of recent experiences, direct from the Andrew Harper membership.

BLACKBERRY FARM(Walland, TN)Some complain of “awful food,” including “stale pastries and breads,” and “clueless young service providers.” But for others the “chef is exceptional” and the property “fabulous,” though “the pool needs updating.”

— Hideaway Report, March 2008