Living The Italian Dream
La dolce vita awaits at Casali di Casole, a dreamy hilltop estate.
As originally published in CURATED Magazine.
A serene retreat from the urban buzz, Tuscany is where Members come to relax, recharge, and savor Italy at a slower pace. With its patchwork of olive groves, vineyards, and Cypress-studded rolling hills, this is the place where you indulge in authentic food, local wine, and rich culture — without the rush.
A LEGACY PROPERTY
Nestled amidst 3,200 acres of gorgeously manicured private grounds, this sprawling estate — an easy drive from Siena, Florence, and Rome — dates back to the end of the 10th century. Over the years, it has passed hands from Italian aristocrats to prominent film director Luchino Visconti. In what was originally an Etruscan castle, a boutique hotel now sits at the heart of the property, providing Members access to five-star amenities including a glorious spa and refined farm-to-table restaurants.
RUSTIC LUXE
The Club’s five villas epitomize elegant countryside living. Designed to reflect the traditional style of the region, the four-bedroom homes are constructed from Italian stone and timber, and feature authentic details like terracotta floors, hand-carved marble sinks, Italian ceramic tiles, a Tuscan fireplace, and a forno for baking wood-fired pizza. Each villa has its own distinct appeal. MonteRotondo, for example, is a restored 15th-century farmhouse, now with an expansive patio poised for al fresco entertaining.
BIG NATURE
With so many adventures to be had at Casali di Casole, you’ll be excused if you never leave the postcard-worthy grounds. Head out on a woodland safari through the estate’s game preserve in search of wild boar, pheasant, porcupine, and deer. Bike the tree-lined paths that wind past rapeseed fields, meadows, and oak forests. Or simply soak in the pinch-me views from your villa’s private, glass-tiled infinity pool.
EXTRAORDINARY AMENITIES
Each villa delivers the best of both worlds: the privacy and comforts of home, plus the over-the-top amenities of a resort. A wine-paired meal or family cooking lesson at your own forno can be easily arranged. And every villa has its own private, heated infinity pool cocooned by a stunningly scenic rise. The pool at Villa Tre Querce, overlooks both the estate and the nearby town of Mensano, while the forested vistas from the pool at MonteRotondo are equally breathtaking. It’s safe to say, you’ll never complain about the views.
EPICURIOUS ADVENTURES
At Casali di Casole, the culinary experience is personal, interactive, and completely customizable. Interested in learning how to make Tuscan schiacciata pizza? A local chef will gather the farm-fresh ingredients, teach you the authentic techniques, and help you host the ultimate pizza party — all without leaving your villa. Gourmet picnic baskets with artisanal treats can also be arranged, as can a private, in-residence tasting of the region’s world-renowned super Tuscan wines. For a truly memorable experience, venture into the countryside alongside skilled Lagotto Romagnolo pups (aka truffle-hunting dogs) as they sniff out prized tubers.
VILLA LIFE
Exposed stone walls, vaulted ceilings, antiques and opulent fabrics, traditional Tuscan fireplaces, and endless views of undulating hills. Indeed, the villas still feel worthy of the nobles who called the estate home centuries ago. Each has its own unique design, such as MonteRotondo, with a layout that beckons family gatherings in the spacious living room or out on the outdoor patio. Tre Querce is ideal for families, and its grand infinity pool has some of the estate’s most tremendous views. The seclusion of the villas makes you feel like you’re on your own private estate, yet even in the remote location, the service remains unparalleled — you’ll quickly be on a first-name basis with the friendly Concierge team who make everything seamless.
AL FRESCO
In Italy, every meal is a beautifully curated experience — and you don’t even have to leave your home. The outdoor dining area of Barbena, a restored farmhouse tucked into a wooded nook of the estate, is a picturesque setting for a lunch of regional cheeses, fresh salads, homemade pastas and pizza, and local wines. Another idea: Ask the team to prepare a gourmet picnic to enjoy in your yard or further afield in one of the estate’s many beautiful meadows.
VESPA OUTINGS & TRUFFLE HUNTS
Just a few minutes from the estate, you’ll discover wonderful hilltop towns, such as Mensano, Radicondoli, and Casole d’Elsa. For a serious dose of culture, the Concierge team will arrange a day trip to Volterra, which is known for its medieval frescos, or Montalcino, located in the spectacular Val d’ Orcia Natural Park. You can also drive an hour south to Florence and tour the city’s acclaimed Renaissance art and architecture. The team has a black book full of must-do activities, from Vespa tours to truffle hunts to tastings at renowned wineries.
Where You'll Stay
5 Residences
Tuscany, Italy
Casali di Casole
5 Residences
Casali di Casole
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