Golden Palate Italia: Castello di Casole: The Finest European Luxury in the Heart of Tuscany!

Castello di Casole is a 4,200-acre estate located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. Castello di Casole includes an intimate 41-suite boutique Italian hotel, various dining venues, world-class spa, 28 luxury Farmhouses – available as Tuscan real estate opportunities – and a model game reserve. All are carefully situated among the rolling hills of vineyards and olive groves that span this exceptionally vast estate amid the rolling hills of central Tuscany, just 20 minutes west of Siena and 45 minutes south of Florence. The Italian coast is a scenic hour’s drive to the west, while the walled fortress of Monteriggioni is a comfortable bike ride. Nearby neighboring towns include the hilltop towns of Mensano, Radicondoli and the namesake, Casole d’Elsa. All are within 15 minutes of the estate. With the legendary view of San Gimignano’s towers rising on the northern horizon, your new Tuscan home at Castello di Casole is the ideal point from which to embark on countless journeys into the heart of Italy’s culturally rich and historically significant cities.

Hotel Castello di Casole offers the rare opportunity to enjoy the rich amenities of a restored Italian castle on a country estate in Tuscany. The castle’s rich history dates back to the end of the 10th century, when it was built and christened Querceto Manor. Querceto Manor often hosted the political exiles of nearby Siena until it fell into decline starting in the 15th century. Owned and reconstructed during the 19th and 20th centuries by the Bargagli family of Siena – esteemed local aristocracy – the castle rose to a prominent position in the region, as the surrounding estate was a leading agricultural producer with 31 farms on 2200 acres. During the late 20th century the Castello was owned by prominent Italian film director Luchino Visconti, who entertained European and Hollywood luminaries throughout the estate.

Timbers Resorts acquired the estate in 2005 and immediately began a significant and authentic restoration of all of the buildings, including the historic castle. The restoration has made use of traditional construction methods and authentic materials found on the estate and throughout the region, while spaces were updated with modern conveniences and luxuries. Today, Hotel Castello di Casole reflects its proud history, offering a new and exciting experience for guests and Owners who treasure contemporary amenities in a classically traditional Italian castle.

Enjoy the ultimate in pampering, including: sommelier wine tastings & chef-prepared food tastings, private car & luxury airport transportation, hiking, horseback riding & mountain biking, hand-made picnic basket lunches, guided vineyard & tasting tours, bird watching & guided wildlife tours, personal fitness training, personal shoppers, cooking, art, language and ceramics classes, in-suite massage, yoga classes, and children’s activities.

Cooking Classes

Castello di Casole is situated on the highest hilltop of the estate and was the original castle of the nearby hilltown Casole d’Elsa. The castle’s tower dating back 1,100 years can be seen from many outreaching hamlets and towns. The castle, now a luxury boutique hotel in Tuscany, includes 41 graciously appointed, luxury suites, fine and casual dining restaurants, pizzeria and gelateria, a fitness center and a world-class spa. The Castello is centrally located on the property and is the gathering point for all Owners and guests.

Essere Spa

A great area for biking and hot air ballooning!

Live performances

Enjoy authentic, gourmet dining at several outlets, under the direction of Executive Chef Daniele Sera including: Pazzia, with freshly homemade pasta made daily, Tuscan style “tagliata” beef accompanied with fresh vegetables and produce hand picked from the Chef’s vegetable garden in a rustic atmosphere. Bar Visconti is named after filmmaker Luchino Visconti who once lived at the Castello, and overlooks the dining terrace and pool area and has ample seating outside, either in the covered loggia of the courtyard or near the pool and dining terrace. One of the best lounge bars in Italy, it is a comfortable and richly appointed rendezvous as well stocked with charm and character as it is with wine and spirits. A Tuscan artist has frescoed the wall, and custom wall sconces create essential atmosphere and ambient light inspired by the lively parties Count Visconti was famous for hosting at the estate. The bar itself has classic marble details and built-in banquette seating, while cozy seating arrangements throughout the room invite intimate conversation. On summer nights, enjoy hors d’oeuvres, wine and cocktails outdoors for stunning views. Ristorante Tosca at Castello di Casole mixes Old World favorites with modern influences, creating an inspired menu of traditional Tuscan cuisine accented with a hint of modern. The focus is pure Italy – homemade pasta, locally sourced meat, exceptional seafood, garden-fresh produce, and of course, endless fresh bread and estate-grown extra virgin olive oil. Dine inside among the restored stone walls and custom Murano glass chandeliers, or head out to the dining terrace for an al fresco meal overlooking dramatic vineyards and valleys. The estate’s expert sommelier is on hand to advise on the perfect wine pairing for each course.

Enjoy the very best of the Tuscan lifestyle, either for a few days, or perhaps forever! See world-famous tenor Andrea Bocelli in concert in his hometown Lajatico- Teatro del Silenzio in the summer, and explore the amazing countryside, historic towns, and wineries!