Castel Monastero

Castel Monastero began life as an eleventh-century village. Then it became a monastery, complete with an incredible Chianti cellar. Now, roughly a thousand years later, it still sits magisterially on a hill, a high-end luxury hotel, one placed close to Siena, far from most everywhere else, and absolutely worth a detour.

As you’d expect, given such a pedigree, there are vaulted ceilings, rough-hewn stone walls, broad beams, and vineyard views galore. Yet there are also flatscreen TVs, complimentary wi-fi, and that lovely modern invention known as the mini-bar. Rooms are scattered among various buildings a short distance from the main one, heightening the sense of seclusion (the super-thick walls and private courtyard help too). Tours by bike, horse, or car into the neighboring countryside can be arranged, or you might prefer to hang out by one of the indoor or outdoor pools. The hotel also offers mushroom foraging, followed by lunch.

Though Chianti is most famous for its wines, the culinary arts are hardly neglected. Two restaurants serve Castel Monastero’s guests: the fine-dining Contrada, and the more casual Cantina, set in the old medieval wine cellar. And while life here was tranquil enough during the property’s years as a monastery, a more accessible form of relaxation is offered by the dazzling and modern Spa Monasterii.

Please note: Castel Monastero is open annually from the end of March through December.

How to get there:
Castel Monastero is located 100 km from Florence airport (FLR) and 170 km from Pisa airport (PSA).