Review of Il Pellicano, by The TI Review Team

Don't be put off by the rather hair-raising route to Il Pellicano, which is located at the end of a steeply descending, hairpin-turning, one-lane road, somewhere at the more deserted end of the Monte Argentario peninsula. It's more than worth it once you're ensconced in this casually elegant aerie, composed of low terracotta bungalows cascading down the hill towards the turquoise waters of the Med. Il Pellicano manifests perfect seaside Tuscan style: teak and tile, white walls and rough beams, bouganvilla-lined paths and casual poolside dining.

The facilities

The idea's to get away from it all here, but there's no shortage of dining options. Il Pellicano Restaurant, situated on a lovely high terrace overlooking the bay, serves fresh seafood - from caciucco (Tuscan fish stew) to grilled swordfish steaks-and is the best restaurant on the Peninsula (so even guests need to book). The heated saltwater pool sits on an outcropping just above the jetty beach, which is furnished with lettini and ombrelloni and serviced by staff ready to bring you a cool towel or chilled drink. There's a tennis court with a pro available to give lessons, a small but very swank fitness room, and a gorgeous boutique selling lesser-known hand-made Italian goods. And Il Pellicano can arrange for private boat trips, on a three-person Riva or a full-service yacht accommodating a dozen for a sit-down dinner.

The rooms

Nothing surprising about the simple, traditional decor here-but not a beat is missed, either. The 50 rooms and suites are large, whitewashed, and sun-filled, most with shuttered French doors opening onto flagstone or tiled terraces. Beds are dressed in traditional matelassé coverlets and fine linens; desks and chairs are antique or fine repro; and soft, inviting slip-covered chairs and sofas abound. Quality prints and mirrors hang on the walls; graphic designs - pineapples, wide awning stripes - grace the fabrics. The effect is stylish, unfussy, and restful - flawless beach-side chic.