Tuscany

The estate captures the essence of contemporary luxury – an experience offering total seclusion, award-winning accommodation and exceptional cuisine, with sustainability a core philosophy of the family.

in 1995, Carlo and Aurora Baccheschi Berti began the journey of restoring their 900-year-old castle and converting three areas of surrounding land into what are now award-winning, homeopathically fertilized vineyards.

The entire property has remained organic since the beginning; not a trend, but their way of life. By protecting the terroir for future generations.

Learn how to cook traditional Tuscan recipes to impress your friends at your next dinner party; sample the award-winning wines with the family who plants and maintains the vineyards daily, or visit a quaint leathermaker’s workshop in a nearby village and select your own handmade creation.

Over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs are grown in the vegetable garden, set within the estate’s olive grove. The garden supplies the estate with the highest quality selection of fresh, seasonal produce. Castello di Vicarello’s chefs use these organic ingredients to create delicious farm to table meals that incorporate the flavours of rustic, Tuscan cuisine.

Pignano’s luxurious accommodation includes not only rooms and suites, but also cottages and maisonettes perfect for small groups and families who like the space of a stand-alone luxury villa, but would also appreciate having an array of services and staff at their disposal. Surrounded by enchanting landscapes, some guests are seduced by the serenity of the estate and do not wander far, instead swimming in the heated infinity pool, soaking up the sun, and strolling or painting among the orchards, gardens and woodland paths. Others may practice yoga, go horseback riding or mountain biking, or enjoy the experiences offered by an estate that doubles as a working farm, such as making honey with the beekeeper or creating scented soaps in the Herbal Lab. As far as cuisine, Borgo Pignano’s gastronomic restaurant Villa Pignano proposes a refined and innovative menu. Guests can sample fine dining where the ingredients take center stage. The cuisine is further complimented with an exquisite selection of organic and biodynamic wines from Tuscany. During the summer, the traditional Ristorante Al Fresco offers an informal, relaxed dining experience set within a beautiful garden environment. The new wellness area harmoniously combines elements of Pignano’s wellbeing philosophy which includes history, nature, health and relaxation, all set within a beautifully designed and elegant spa. Borgo Pignano is a haven for art lovers who wish to immerse themselves in the pleasure of creating and observing art. The Pignano Art Gallery offers a contemplative environment for artists to exhibit their work and allows hotel guests the privilege of viewing exceptional art during their stay.

Sun-starched stonework and rusty tones blend seamlessly with the enchanting rural surrounds. Head high into the hills around Casole on an unassuming farm road. Between leafy banks and tall trees you will catch your first glimpse of the medieval castle, presiding over untouched landscape. Step over the threshold into a thousand years of history, where the doorman greets you with a warm welcome. Inside the cool air offers a refreshing retreat from the Tuscan sun, while exposed beams and earthen tones harbour a glorious past that echoes the surrounding landscape. These grounds were once home to an entire Tuscan village, including a school, priest’s house and limonaia. Today they have been thoughtfully, beautifully restored to lavish rooms and suites. Many still maintain their original chimneys, a throwback to the days of family gatherings and home-cooking. Once settled in and suitably revived, head to the heated infinity pool for a spot of relaxation. Sunbathe in the balmy warmth or swim to the edge, gazing across the painterly rolling hills. For deeper indulgence, descend to the former wine cellar to unwind at Essere Spa. You’ll discover a peaceful eden with a decadent menu of rejuvenating rituals featuring natural ingredients like rosemary, grape, olive oil and honey. Nestled deep within Tuscany’s tranquil heartlands, those seeking quiet bliss will not be disappointed, but Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany is also alive with activity. Anticipate an array of pursuits from mountain biking and truffle hunting to exclusive tours of the Brunello di Montalcino vineyards—adventurous spirits will feel right at home.

Places full of history but familiar at the same time. Places that, once discovered, you would never wish to leave. Castello di Spaltenna, a charming hotel situated in Gaiole in Chianti, is one of these places. La Terrazza Restaurant offers light dishes, whilst Michelin-starred restaurant Il Pievano is full of creative cuisine along with the Castle Wine cellar, staying at Castello di Spaltenna is all part of a classic Chianti journey .