DEPARTURES

ENCHANTING ESCAPADES

Escape to the enchanting world of Castelfalfi, where centuries of history, luxurious accommodations, exquisite cuisine, and a myriad of activities await, offering a truly unforgettable and immersive luxury experience in the heart of Tuscany.

MARIE DURAND

Nestled in the captivating Tuscan countryside, the ancient village of Castelfalfi and its sprawling 1,100-hectare agricultural estate have been transformed into a world-class travel destination. Equidistant from the Renaissance cities of Pisa and Florence, this Italian gem is steeped in history and natural beauty. Owned by visionary Indonesian entrepreneur Sri Prakash Lohia, Castelfalfi is a place where guests can reconnect with nature and immerse themselves in the authentic Tuscan way of life. With a five-star hotel, exquisite dining options, a championship golf course, and a range of activities, Castelfalfi offers an unrivaled luxury experience.

The roots of Castelfalfi’s history can be traced back to the ancient Etruscans, but it was the Lombards who established the village and castle. Over the centuries, ownership changed hands, leading to its transformation into a residential residence during the Renaissance. The estate suffered damage and devastation during conflicts between Florence and Siena in the 16th century, but it was revitalized by the Medici Tornaquinci family. In the 20th century, the village and farm were gradually abandoned until the German group TUI AG acquired the property in 2007. In 2021, Sri Prakash Lohia took the reins, setting in motion a vibrant plan to inaugurate a new future for this historic destination.

The centerpiece of Castelfalfi is the five-star Toscana Resort Castelfalfi, which consists of a contemporary main building and the historic tobacco warehouse, La Tabaccaia. With 146 rooms and suites, including 31 in La Tabaccaia, guests are immersed in luxurious comfort. Additionally, five stunning villas are available for rent or sale, offering the opportunity to live in Castelfalfi year-round.

Delightful culinary experiences await at the resort’s exceptional restaurants. Olivina, a brand new restaurant conceptualized by international artist and designer Henry Chebaane, offers panoramic views and a blend of modern bistro and artisan atelier. Here, guests can savor the authentic flavors and aromas of Tuscany. Ecrù Lounge Bar and Giglio Blu Pool Bar provide enchanting settings for aperitifs and live music, while La Rocca, housed in the medieval castle, offers a fine dining experience with a terrace overlooking the golf club. The Country Club House restaurant boasts splendid views of the 27-hole golf course, and Il Rosmarino, a Tuscan trattoria, offers typical regional dishes just steps away from the hotel.

Castelfalfi takes pride in its gastronomic offerings, sourcing ingredients locally from the village farm, organic gardens, vineyards, and olive groves. Executive Chef Davide De Simone curates a culinary journey that combines the flavors of traditional Tuscan cuisine with contemporary creativity. The estate produces its own organic olive oil, made from olives cultivated in the surrounding olive groves. Guests can sample different flavors of olive oil, including classic blends and infused varieties. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the estate’s vineyards, which produce exquisite wines such as Sangiovese, Merlot, and Vermentino, among others.

Castelfalfi offers a wide range of activities to captivate guests and immerse them in the beauty of nature. Sports enthusiasts can indulge in a game of golf on the spectacular 27-hole golf course or enjoy tennis and padel tennis matches. Adventurers can explore the countryside through trekking and cycling routes, with mountain bikes and e-bikes available for rent. Yoga sessions, personal training, archery, fishing, and bushcraft activities provide ample opportunities for relaxation and excitement.

For those seeking unique lifestyle experiences, Castelfalfi offers truffle hunting, saffron picking, and beekeeping experiences, where guests can gain insight into these traditional Tuscan practices. Renting a Vespa or supercar allows exploration of the picturesque surroundings, while cooking classes and wine tours provide hands-on experiences in the region’s culinary delights.
Castelfalfi is a hidden paradise that seamlessly blends history, luxury, and nature. With its five-star hotel, exceptional dining options, championship golf course, and diverse range of activities, it offers an enchanting retreat in the heart of Tuscany. Whether indulging in fine cuisine, teeing off on a world-class golf course, or immersing oneself in the region’s rich history, Castelfalfi promises an unforgettable luxury experience that celebrates the harmony between man, nature, and the traditional Tuscan community.

For more information about Toscana Resort Castelfalfi, please visit:

www.castelfalfi.com or call +39 0571 892000.

Rates for the luxury 5-star resort start at $659 a night.