Deep in the middle of 'Nowhere' lies Castello di Casole, a Belmond Hotel, Tuscany

Belmond celebrates its ‘Tuscan Renaissance’ with the official unveiling of its newest hilltop retreat, Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany and introduction of a new Town & Country package with sister-hotel Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence.

Along a cypress-lined avenue that leads to the middle of ‘nowhere’, surrounded by views of rolling Tuscan hills as far as the eye can see; the historic 10th-century hotel celebrates a rebirth with the introduction of new authentic experiences embracing the simple pleasures of Tuscan living.

Food of the land is celebrated with exquisite new al fresco dining experiences, first light encounters with nature connect guests with the enchanted forest that cocoons the property and vintage car adventures are a thrilling way to go deep into Tuscany’s wild and untamed countryside.

FRAMING THE VIEW 

The experience at Castello di Casole begins with the arrival – as guests approach along a beautifully manicured tree-lined avenue, archetypal Tuscan houses appear in the horizon and a glimpse of the private estate’s 4,200 acres come into view. 

Once inside the grounds, the impressive terrace serves as the heart of the hotel - a place to savour the sweeping panoramic views and take a moment to appreciate the quiet of nature. Now boasting elegant seating for all day dining and relaxation, it is also the best spot to enjoy a long lazy lunch or to toast the holiday with the estate’s home-grown red wine. 

The adjoining pool terrace serves refreshing cocktails and freshly squeezed juices from a new pool bar that also houses a small library of classic novels to while away the hours. The cleverly elevated infinity pool, seamlessly blends with the lush rolling hillsides and offers a cinematic view at dusk.

THE GREAT OAK FOREST 

The centuries-old great oak forest that borders the estate, is home to a variety of wild animals, native flora and fauna and is the inspiration for a number of new experiences. First Light in the Tuscan Wonderland in partnership with Leica Sport Optics, takes guests by jeep into the forest to spot bird and wildlife through Leica binoculars from observation towers dotted around the grounds. A champagne tour is offered at sunset and there is the option to journey back on foot to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of the surrounding countryside.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side encourages guests to explore the impressive number of trekking routes that weave around the woods. Or further afield, self-guided,  guided hikes and cycling tours can be arranged to nearby historic castles, landmarks and pretty hamlets. Truffle Hunting with small groups of foodies is an estate signature experience, led by expert hunter Mauro Nesi and his stunning Lagotto Romagnolo dogs. Once the truffles are unearthed from the forest grounds, the hotel kitchen uses the delicacy to infuse a tasting menu of Taglierini, Tosca fillet and Black truffle tarts.  

A TASTE OF TUSCANY  

Food from the land and savouring tradition is at the heart of Castello di Casole’s revitalised wine and dining experiences. Restaurants at Castello di Casole offer something for everyone. The focus at each of the dining venues is on simple, rustic food that blend Italian tradition with modern innovation. Whether one chooses to dine in the cosy Visconti Bar or in the elegant setting of Cip’s by Cipriani, each moment is to cherish. 

At Restaurant Cip’s served on the recently launched terrace with breathtaking views over the surrounding hills, Executive Chef Daniele Sera offers an array of masterful Tuscan dishes complemented by specialities from the legendary Cip’s by Cipriani. 
For a laidback meal or drink guests can enjoy the Visconti Bar, with marble details and frescoed walls, named after the illustrious Visconti family, who owned the property in the past. 

For a taste of Tuscan hospitality, groups can privately reserve the Enchanted Table; suspended from a towering oak tree, beautifully dressed with flowers and atmospherically lit by candelabra and twinkling lights. Guests can choose from a gourmet evening menu of traditional Tuscan classics or the more relaxed daytime merenda of sharing platters, consisting of local farmhouse cheeses, hams, wines and even homemade gelato. 

A TUSCAN VILLAGE

Rooms and suites are spread throughout the storied buildings of what was once a bustling Tuscan village dating back to the year 998 - an old school, limonaia, wine cellar and priest's house have been transformed into 39 sumptuous bedrooms, each bursting with rustic charm. Warm woods, Carrara marble floors and antique mirrors define the overall aesthetic and many rooms have spacious bathrooms with roll top baths from which to admire the picture frame views of the surrounding landscapes. 

The Essere Spa, located in the atmospherically lit ancient stone alcoves of a vaulted wine cellar, displays Etruscan artefacts and offers treatments inspired by the land. Locally harvested olive oil, orange-infused oil, honey, rosemary and grapes are used in signature facials and massages and a new outdoor relaxation lawn is a space to reconnect with nature over a fresh herbal tea. 

CONTEMPORARY RENAISSANCE IN FLORENCE 

Less than a two-hour scenic drive away is Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence - an icon of Florentine Renaissance famed for its terraced gardens and proximity to the city – and the ideal Tuscan twin-stay with Castello di Casole. 

Art lovers can also privately hire the car to visit the exceptional Tuscan sculpture parks, like the Pazzagli and secluded Garden of Sounds, or take a sunset drive to local landmarks and vineyards for a sparkling wine and picnic pitstop.  

To mark 500 years of Leonardo di Vinci’s genius, guided dawn walks through the lush landscapes of Monte Ceceri hill and historic quarries of Pietra Serena, culminate at the exact spot behind the hotel where the inventor test drove his famous flying machine. 

As a nod to Di Vinci’s lesser-known fascination with food (inspired by his time in Milan cooking for the ruling Sforza family in the 1480s), guests are invited to share a traditional feast under the pergola of the hotel’s Italian gardens just below Monte Ceceri Park. A menu, designed by rising culinary star and Executive Chef Alessandro Cozzolino, uses herbs, spices and techniques inspired by the pioneer’s foodie preferences. 

Throughout the hotel and gardens, Leonardo Di Vinci’s anniversary motivates the choice of new installations that challenge traditional Renaissance storytelling. Local contemporary artists showcase works that range from ironic modern sculptures of Renaissance icons, eye-catching wooden canvases depicting Italy to glass mirror columns that reflect nature.

BOOK NOW

The ‘Town & Country’ four-night package (which can be booked in any combination), includes best available rooms on B&B at Castello di Casole and Villa San Michele, private transfer between the two hotels and starts from £2,090 /€2,360 per couple, excluding taxes.

Double rooms on B&B at Castello di Casole start from £667 / €750 per couple based on two people sharing and at Belmond Villa San Michele start from £756/ €850. For bookings please visit Belmond.com