We’re Sandy & Phil Ferretti — American-born, Tuscany-based, and proud to call Montepulciano our home.
As full-time local residents and longtime hospitality professionals, we created Total Tuscany to share the life we love: slow travel, unforgettable meals, deep cultural traditions, and meaningful connection.
Our guests don’t just book a trip — they begin a journey with us that often starts months (or even years) before they arrive. Every itinerary is personal, thoughtfully curated with care, and built on trust. By the time you get here, you already feel like a friend — and when you leave, you’re part of the family.
We had the great honor of running the #1 Bed & Breakfast in Montepulciano for five consecutive years on TripAdvisor, were featured on CBS Sunday Morning with Jane Pauley, and have been Rick Steves–recommended since 2019. Since 2021, we’ve proudly held TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best award — thanks to the incredible guests who’ve experienced this journey with us and shared their stories.
Today, we’ve poured all of that passion and energy into our Total Tuscany all-inclusive retreat — a signature week of wine, food, culture, and connection. Over the past decade, we’ve built lasting relationships with the very best of Italy: trusted boutique hotels, artisan winemakers, passionate chefs, expert guides, hidden gems, and five-star experiences from Tuscany to the Amalfi Coast, from Umbria to Sicily.
Whether you join us for our hosted retreat or entrust us with planning a fully bespoke itinerary anywhere in Italy, we’re proud to share our life here with you — one unforgettable moment at a time.
This page is a collection of kind words from those who’ve traveled this journey with us — and a glimpse into the magic we create together.
Cheers from Tuscany… we’re waiting for you.
XOXO, Sandy, Phil & Maverick
Amy Stewart
Washington DC
Definition of Luxury
If you’re looking for an out-of-this-world experience, you’ve got to book here! I joined the Total Tuscany 2024 retreat in April, and no detail was left out. Sandy and Phil arranged every part of the trip with exclusive, local-only experiences we never could’ve booked on our own. The property is the definition of luxury and truly a VIP experience. The chef was top notch — every single meal was incredible. I can’t rave about this place enough! The photos don’t do it justice. You have to see the views in person. A huge thank you to Sandy and Phil for treating me like family — that means everything to a solo traveler.
Anne Chinoda
Orlando, FL
An Experience of a Lifetime
My husband, Alan, and I have been visiting Tuscany for over a decade — it’s one of our favorite places. This year, we stayed somewhere new, and we are beyond grateful for the experience. Not only is the location and property breathtaking, but meeting Sandy and Phil made all the difference. They’ve created something incredibly special with their luxury farmhouse B&B. Their heart and soul are in every detail, and it shows. Sandy’s care turns into the most thoughtful concierge service. Once she learns what you love, she plans custom towns, restaurants, and experiences tailored just for you. Because of her, we had a completely fresh, magical experience in a region we thought we already knew well. That led to a sense of connection — we weren’t just guests, we were welcomed like longtime friends. We’ll be bringing our whole family next year, knowing Sandy will make it unforgettable. We’ve traveled the world, and this was truly one of the most meaningful trips we’ve ever had.
Meg Braham
Austin, TX
The Best Place to Stay in Tuscany
Staying at Relais Ortaglia was the highlight of our Tuscany trip in October 2023. Our only regret was not staying longer! Sandy and Phil are fantastic hosts, and their love for what they do shines in every corner of the property. It’s perfectly located near Montepulciano with easy onsite parking. Every breakfast was filling, creative, and different — and the cappuccinos were amazing. We loved the daily options for cocktails by the pool or patio, the stocked wine fridges in our room, and the many beautiful indoor and outdoor common areas. The rooms are large and gorgeously decorated. Sandy sent us a “Favorite Things” list before arrival that helped guide several of our activities, and during the trip, she gave great advice on parking, hidden gems, and where to go next. If you’re not a planner, don’t worry — she’ll take care of you. This place was everything we hoped for and more. Can’t wait to come back!
Eva-Lynn Morrison
Weston, FL
Total Tuscany – Trip of a Lifetime
If you’re looking for a SPECTACULAR all-inclusive trip of a lifetime to Tuscany, Total Tuscany is it. Your hosts, Sandy and Phil, take care of every detail. Bring your comfy clothes and walking shoes and get ready for something special. Start each day with an incredible homemade breakfast — quiches, pastries, fruit, fresh juices, all sourced from their property. Then hop in the van with your new friends to explore hill towns, wineries, and villages. And the food and wine? Sandy and Phil know everyone, and you’ll be welcomed into kitchens and vineyards as if you’ve known them forever. The moments relaxing back at the property were just as magical. The sunsets are something I’ll never forget. If Tuscany is on your list — book this. You won’t be sorry!
Terry Ambrosia
Miami, FL
Magical Trip at a Magical B&B
I just spent 10 days at Relais Ortaglia and I can truly say it was one of the most magical vacations of my life. Sandy and Phil have created something really special. The Total Tuscany experience they offer is filled with unforgettable moments — incredible food, amazing wines, local artisans and chefs, and warmhearted people everywhere we went. They immediately made me feel like I was visiting old friends. It wasn’t just a vacation — it was a celebration of life, love, and community. Do yourself a favor and go. You’ll leave with memories that will stay with you forever.
Kate Brewster
Portland, Maine
Total Tuscany is a Total Treasure
As a full-time working mom, I found planning a trip to Tuscany overwhelming. I didn’t know where to stay, what to do, or how to get around. Then I found Total Tuscany. Sandy and Phil planned everything — the itinerary, transportation, even the perfect group to travel with. They brought us to the most amazing wineries, restaurants, hilltop towns, and shops — places I never would’ve found on my own. I didn’t have to drive, figure out where to park, or make a single reservation. It was effortless, elegant, and unforgettable. If you’re stressing about planning your trip to Tuscany, stop. Just book Total Tuscany and enjoy the ride. It was magical.
Debbie & Doug Weston
Fort Lauderdale, FL
They Turn Dreams Into Reality
If you can dream it, Sandy and Phil can make it come true. I’ll admit, I started writing this review two days into our 7-night Total Tuscany retreat — that’s how blown away I was. Each day managed to top the last with new surprises, local experiences, and unforgettable meals. From Sandy’s gorgeous breakfasts overlooking the dahlia garden and Montepulciano, to multi-course wine-paired dinners, everything was curated with care. The rooms are stunning, the wine never stops flowing, and every detail was perfect. We were introduced to their friends — chefs, winemakers, artisans — as if we were longtime members of the community. This wasn’t just a vacation — it was an experience that will stay with us forever. Honestly, we’re already planning our return (and maybe even our retirement!). Come hungry — not just for food and wine, but for the adventure of a lifetime.
Grazie mille to our incredible hosts — Sandy, Phil, Cooper, & Maverick.
Cheryl Forchilli
New York, NY
The Perfect Tuscan Blend
Stop searching — this is the best way to experience Tuscany. Relais Ortaglia is stunning: sweeping views of Montepulciano, sunsets over the vineyards, and mornings with espresso on the patio. The rooms are elegant and comfortable with everything you need — plush beds, robes, USB ports, stocked minibars. The breakfasts are next-level: quiches, muffins, fruit, and ingredients fresh from the garden. But the real magic is Sandy and Phil. They are Americans who’ve made Tuscany home, and they share their world with you like dear friends. We cooked with chefs, visited family-run farms, held baby goats, and tasted wines at private vineyards — all places we never would’ve found on our own. You aren’t a tourist here — you feel like you’ve been dropped into their community. It was immersive, intimate, and unforgettable. Book the Total Tuscany week. You’ll never look at travel the same way again.
Susan Singleton
Naples, FL
Home Is Where the Heart Is – and This Is It
This was our second stay at Relais Ortaglia, and somehow it was even more magical than the first. As we drove up the long cypress-lined drive, the beauty of the villa and vineyards took our breath away. Then Maverick and Cooper ran out to greet us with Sandy and Phil — and we knew we were home. We joined their first-ever Total Tuscany retreat and it exceeded every expectation. From the Tuscan BBQ welcome dinner to spa days, cheese-making, cooking classes, hot air balloon rides, vineyard tastings, and daily adventures — every detail was seamless. But what truly sets this apart is Sandy and Phil’s heart. They know the winemakers, the chefs, the artisans — and they bring you into those relationships. We left with full hearts, bellies, and a million memories. If you’ve never been to Tuscany — come. If you’ve already been — come back. This is the way to do it. Magical, personal, and unforgettable.
Samantha Storch
Vicenza, Italy
A Summer Escape We’ll Never Forget
Relais Ortaglia delivered everything we dreamed of: rolling hills, golden sunsets, and incredible food and wine. From the moment we arrived, Sandy and Phil made us feel at home. They greeted us with a tour of the historic property, warm smiles, and (of course) wagging tails from Cooper and Maverick. Our room was beautifully appointed — comfy bed, luxury bath products, and thoughtful touches like multiple pillow options and self-serve drinks. The pool was a refreshing retreat during the summer heat, and the breakfasts? Beyond amazing. Homemade focaccia, fresh muffins, fruit, and eggs from their own chickens. They even produce their own honey and olive oil! Every day brought something special — whether it was wine tasting, horseback riding, or simply relaxing in a hammock. Sandy and Phil pour their love into everything they do, and it shows in every corner of this magical place. Thank you for the memories.
Matt Sack
New York, NY
The Best Travel Experience of My Life
I still don’t know how I stumbled across Relais Ortaglia — probably TripAdvisor — but I’m so glad I did. It wasn’t just the highlight of my trip to Italy — it was the best travel experience of my life. I was traveling solo and nervous, but Sandy and Phil (and their sweet poodles) made me feel instantly welcome. The other guests became fast friends, and the property itself is breathtaking. From horseback rides and cheese tastings to Negronis by the infinity pool, every day brought new joy. Sandy’s breakfasts are legendary: fruit from the garden, baked goods, creative egg dishes, and even imported avocados. The bed was the most comfortable I’ve ever slept in — and yes, I still dream about it. My favorite night? The Tuscan BBQ with table décor better than most weddings I’ve attended! Sandy and Phil are not just hosts — they are true hospitality artists. I left after three days already planning my return. This place feels like home
Jodi Solarana
Weston, FL
Tuscany Treasure!
I just returned from a 6-night stay at Relais Ortaglia and it was incredible! The 450-year-old villa sits just outside Montepulciano with stunning vineyard views. Sandy and Phil are the perfect hosts — from delicious homemade breakfasts to authentic pizza nights in their outdoor oven. The rooms are charming with brand-new bathrooms, and the food is organic and farm-to-table. With over 600 olive trees, they even produce their own olive oil. Sandy curated the perfect itinerary for us — from wineries and cooking classes to truffle hunting and shopping. It was the vacation of a lifetime. Highly recommend — 5 stars