The picturesque hilltop borgo of Castelfalfi is a hidden paradise in the heart of the Tuscan countryside.
Castelfalfi is widely regarded as one of the most enchanting villages in Italy, and it’s easy to see why. Boasting scenery that looks as though it has been lifted from the backdrop of a Renaissance painting, this once-abandoned ghost town, which dates back more than 2,000 years, is now under the ownership of Indian-Indonesian investor Sri Prakash Lohia and family who, thanks to a multi-million- dollar renovation in 2023, have given its 1,100-hectare working estate a new lease of life.
Home to a five-star resort, 75 hectares of vineyards and olive groves, a picturesque borgo (village) with shops, trattorias, chapels, and an old castle holding court above it all, as well as the largest golf course in Tuscany, Castelfalfi can only be described as a hidden paradise.
Its 146-key resort is the crème de la crème—choose a room with a view (Italian studio Caberlon Caroppi took the lead on refreshing the guest rooms, including 31 rooms set in a converted tobacco warehouse) or upgrade to a villa, which just so happens to be the accommodation of choice for visiting dignitaries and celebrities. The 106 m² Castelfalfi Grand Suite is in particularly high demand, while the Suite Terrace offers views of the Ligurian Sea, some 58 km away, from its expansive balcony.
As to be expected, the hotel’s amenities are second to none. Spend your days admiring the valley views from the comfort of one of the many sun loungers that line the outdoor pool, or enjoy a treatment at the RAKxa-branded spa.
Fitness enthusiasts are also well catered to thanks to a high-spec gym (with personal trainer, yoga and Pilates lessons), guided hikes, mountain biking and tennis, while elsewhere guests can enjoy wine tasting in the vineyards and truffle hunting in the forest.
Not to be outdone by the scenery, chef Davide De Simone takes the reins at the property’s new Olivina restaurant, where the use of regional materials in shades of terracotta, copper, oak and bronze are reminiscent of the locale’s grains, grapes and olives. Dine on elevated Italian classics like venison carpaccio, homemade traditional tagliolini egg pasta with fresh truffle, and Tuscan ribollita from the garden, all washed down with exceptional wines.
Castelfalfi’s other restaurants include Il Rosmarino trattoria-pizzeria, the poolside Giglio Blu for snacks and light lunches, the Country Clubhouse and Bar Ecrù, which makes for the perfect setting for aperitivo hour.
For a truly special experience, visit La Rocca, an intimate new fine dining restaurant in the medieval castle of the historic borgo, that offers a choice of two creative tasting menus. Bon appétit.
