Castel Monastero

A castle of tranquility, nestled in the Tuscan wilderness

Castel Monastero has gone by many names – originally Sarna in 1044, then a member of the Berghandini family during medieval times and a contender in many a battle with the Florentines… A history that’s enriched its character and filled its brick-inlaid halls with a palpable significance, now to be explored and enjoyed by handfuls of guests who are drawn in by the Chianti region’s unmistakeable allure, and totally captivated by this extraordinary hotel. 

Beyond heavy wooden doors and ornate lookouts, a vast courtyard sets the stage for small-scale get-togethers, exciting celebrations, and fairytale weddings; all against a backdrop of Cypress trees and aromatic brush, stone homes and terra cotta flooring. During the day, this storied piazza is teeming with life, but late into the night, nature takes over with the intoxicating chirping of cicadas and a heady breeze that sweeps into sumptuous suites through open, beckoning windows.

Here, timeless style reigns eternal, with plush leather couches and Italian frescoes adorning ochre-toned walls, crested with beamed ceilings and parquet floorings, handsome armoires and intimate, private balconies. In these free-flowing open spaces, rustic chic meets classic luxury in more ways than meet the eye, in a renaissance of subtle creativity and elevated design that invokes a desire to experience the true essence of Tuscany.

And savour they will, in La Cantina, a restaurant of regional delicacies that’s situated just a few metres below, in the castle’s ambient restored wine cellars. Here, centuries of oenological tradition have borne a personally curated collection of labels that suit every palate and create ‘gastronomic symphonies’ with dishes that have been part of the area’s legacy for hundreds of years, flavouring the most unforgettable events and festivities. 

Overhead and in view of the piazza, Contrada is Castel Monastero’s fine dining restaurant, which combines the area’s flavour profile with the most delicious developments in the Mediterranean culinary arts. Brick-inlaid arches and abstract wall art fall into place for an experience that’s just as traditional as it is contemporary, while impeccable service and talented chefs add their own personal touches to every stay.

To add an element of pampering, the hotel includes a luxurious outdoor pool, as well as indoor spa areas with whirlpools and centres for medical wellness treatments – the “Aquae Monasteri” practice includes a soak in saline waters with components sourced from the sea for a natural form of regeneration, while the hotel also offers acupuncture,, osteopathy and somato-emotional release techniques, and positive thinking sessions with experienced specialists.

All the while, just outside the hotel a tranquil paradise awaits; the rolling hills and flowery meadows of Chianti, which hold a treasure trove of wonderful destinations to explore.