Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany
Slow living and countryside calm are the order of the day at Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany a luxurious escape in Casole d’Elsa, a hamlet not far from Siena. Querceto (the larger municipality of which Casole d’Elsa is part) translates to “oak forest,” and the surroundings live up to the name: besides the lush green views from the hotel’s main terrace and striking infinity pool, the woods surrounding the property lend the land an almost mystical feel.
The bucolic Tuscan vibe at Castello di Casole runs deep. The property has strong ties to the Etruscans (Tuscany’s earliest society), evoking their memory at every turn. In addition to celebrating their fondness for life’s simple pleasures — wine and fresh food in particular — Castello di Casole preserves their legacy by displaying several artifacts discovered on the grounds.
A countryside retreat in the truest sense of the term, the hotel has a village-like feel, complete with friendly staff and homespun touches.
- History and regional heritage are woven into luxury hotel: an anchor of the property is a tower dating to 998, probably associated with the nearby Tuscan leg of the Via Francigena, a pilgrimage road from Canterbury toward Rome.Built more recently, but no less impressive, the main castle was once owned by acclaimed Italian filmmaker Luchino Visconti. A sleek lounge a few steps from the heated pool now bears his name and party-hosting legacy.
- Speaking of which, don’t miss a visit to the Bisazza-glass-tiled infinity pool, whether you take a dip there or enjoy a sundowner.
- An ancient amphitheater with views over the lush green countryside and a pathway to the pool makes an atmospheric spot for summer concerts. It also doubles as a dramatic wedding venue.
- Morning rituals are made memorable by the surroundings: breakfast typically takes place alfresco or in the property’s former limonaia, or lemon house.
- The concierge team has hefty local intel on everything from cheese farms to truffle hunters, working closely with area businesses and professionals to arrange experiences for hotel guests.
- The luxurious Essere Spa is housed in the property’s centuries-old former wine cellar. The original stone walls and dimly lit corridors add an air of mysterious serenity to your day of pampering.
- Children of all ages are welcome at Castello di Casole. There are numerous made-to-measure activities just for tots, including merenda (a Tuscan take on snack time), pizza-making classes, area farm visits and mother-daughter and father-son pampering packages in the spa (the only time kids under 12 can use the facility).
- Upon request, cooking classes can be organized onsite, making use of the property’s impressive 16th-century oven.
- All accommodations aim to replicate the feeling of a real Tuscan country home with creamy autumnal colors, brick floors and cabin-like coziness.
- Marble floors, gilded mirrors and ample space make the en-suite bathrooms a place to unwind.
- Each category of suite has its own distinct personality. For rustic environs, book one of the Exclusive Suites outfitted with antiques and original stone walls, or for more modern surroundings and a large terrace, opt for an Oliveto Suite.
- Architecturally, the estate feels like its own “Little Tuscany,” complete with a shared open-air courtyard that functions much like a piazza, a mainstay of any Italian town. You’ll find easy access to the main buildings, benches and plenty of space for lounging.
- Manicured landscaping and fresh flowers are an integral part of the ambience: potted geraniums add life to the central square, and Tuscan cypresses framed by flowerbeds welcome you to the property.
- Regionally sourced materials (like alabaster from Volterra) and repurposed relics found on the grounds (Etruscan sculptures, antique doors) add a strong sense of place to the overall aesthetic.
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