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The Enviroment:
Castello di Casole is deeply rooted in the rich agricultural history of Tuscany. The area’s first settlements date back to the Bronze Age, as early as 3000 B.C., when mineral-rich land and the nearby Elsa River made the land inhabitable. Later, Etruscan settlers farmed the land, as indicated by the Etruscan artifacts found on the Castello di Casole Estate.
The estate’s namesake castle dates back to the late 10th century, when it was erected and christened the Querceto Manor. During the 1800’s the noble Bargagli family of Siena assembled properties surrounding the Querceto Manor, and the estate grew to include more than 30 farms rich in wheat, corn, olives, grapes and livestock. The Italian castle fell into disrepair and underwent a major renovation in the 18th century, resulting in the structure that is now Hotel Castello di Casole. Families and sharecroppers worked the estate until the 1960s, when it was purchased by the Earl Edoardo Visconti di Modrone Erba, who often hosted movie stars and luminaries of the jet set. Timbers Resorts acquired the Tuscan estate and began developing Castello di Casole in the year 2005 and has gently coaxed it into the modern era.
Being Responsible
Preserving the rich history of Tuscany and the natural wonder of the Castello di Casole estate has always been a priority for Timbers Resorts. Nowhere is that commitment more apparent than in the restoration and reconstruction of the Hotel Castello di Casole, and its surrounding Tuscan villas and farmhouses. Architects and artisans have crafted these stunning structures using traditional methods and reclaimed materials including wood beams, ceramic tile and terra cotta found throughout the estate. One can trace the centuries across the stones of walled courtyards and hand-set loggia.
Where possible, the structures have been fully restored in their original locations, lovingly coaxed into the modern age. Elsewhere, the same original materials are used for faithful reconstructions updated with modern day practicalities including spacious floor plans, large kitchens and sumptuous baths. Throughout the construction process we focus on sustainable methods that minimize the environmental impact so the estate will look and feel the same for generations to come.
How you will reside
Hotel Castello di Casole offers 41 luxurious hotel suites in a range of styles and sizes to accommodate visitors in grand style. From junior suites in the main hotel building to apartment-style olive grove suites a short walk away, these enticing spaces have been painstakingly restored using original materials found on the estate. Authentic details – wood-beamed ceilings, stone walls and hand-plastered finishes – are gently coaxed into the modern era with luxurious fabrics, fixtures and furnishings, an alluring blend of old and new.
In addition to the luxury suites, guests of Hotel Castello di Casole are welcome to choose from other five-star accommodations on the estate. The Bargagli Penthouse is the highlight of the main hotel, a two-story, 3-bedroom masterpiece where every detail is a work of art. Families may be interested in renting one of the Tuscan Hotel Villas just steps away or for a bit more privacy, the Farmhouses, set on hillsides throughout the 4,200-acre property. No matter the choice, one will enjoy the comforts of home, amazing views of the Tuscan hills and exceptional services from Timbers Resorts.
How you will eat
Castello di Casole, a luxury resort and hotel in the heart of Tuscany, offers remarkable dining experiences, a collection of fine and casual dining venues serving traditional Italian cuisine with a twist. From a perfect cappuccino as the Tuscan sun sets, a romantic picnic lunch in the vineyards, to dining al fresco with friends and family, food and drink are an essential part of everyday.
The focus is on simple, rustic food in the classic Italian tradition. Expect handmade pastas, fresh organic vegetables, fresh fish and game from local sources – all paired with fine wines from the best wineries in Italy and around the world. Whether you choose to dine in your private residence, order room service at the hotel, take Italian cooking classes from master chefs, or visit one of the restaurants, every day in Tuscany stirs the soul in some new way.
The wellness choice
At the heart of the Castello di Casole Estate, located within our Hotel in Tuscany, an inviting spa awaits your arrival. Originally the estate’s wine cellar, Essere Spa, meaning To Be in Italian, offers a serene setting within one of the most dramatic spaces at the hotel. Barrel-vaulted ceilings and restored stone walls create a theatrical setting accentuated by long views across an expansive valley.
Whether it’s the centerpiece of a day on the estate or a treat after touring Tuscany, you’re in for an unforgettable spa day. There are seven treatment rooms, secluded men’s and women’s areas, a room for couple’s treatments, and private outdoor gardens. A full treatment menu inspired by local ingredients will soothe and nourish your mind, body and soul.
Amenities
As a guest of the boutique hotel or an Owner within the Private Residence Club, you can expect exceptional personal services at Castello di Casole. Timbers Resorts brings its celebrated and distinctive service standards to every aspect of this Tuscan estate, where an enthusiastic team of hospitality experts makes every day in Tuscany more special than the one before.
Attentive bilingual concierges will see to your every request during your stay, assisting with every aspect of your accommodations, including dinner reservations, guided Italian tours, and family activities in Tuscany and beyond. Estate-produced wine, extra virgin olive oil and fresh flowers anticipate your arrival, and your refrigerator and pantries are stocked with necessities. There is daily housekeeping and nightly turndown service, 24-hour in-room or in-residence dining, transportation to and from the property, babysitting services and children’s activities, and much more. Simply ask, and consider it done.
And beyond the expected, you’ll delight in the experience and sense of feeling at home away from home, because this is what defines the service at Timbers Resorts properties.
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