CASTELLO DI TORNANO
CASTELLO DI TORNANO bears the weight of centuries of fascinating history, from its establishment as a fortified medieval castle within a wooded hamlet to its modern-day incarnation as a picturesque hotel and winery. The property has belonged to the Selvolini family of Florence since the 1970s, and their masterful renovations have transformed the castle into a model of hospitality within the Chianti region. While the full tales of the myriad rivalries and plots, loves and losses, joys and sorrows that have played themselves out within these stone walls are lost to the mists of time, today’s guests will no doubt add their own stories to the intricate tapestry of this history. Set amid the gently rolling Chianti hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, the hamlet offers visitors an unparalleled Tuscan experience. The castle’s accommodations include ten elegant double rooms and suites located in the castle tower, one double room with a private patio, as well as seven cozy country-style apartments away from the main building, each with their own entrance, living room, kitchenette, bathroom with shower, and private outdoor space with table and chairs.
The property’s ancient barn has been transformed into a charming two-bedroom, 750-square-foot cottage with two bedrooms and private Jacuzzi. All accommodations include large flat-screen televisions and central heating. And while apartment and cottage guests have the option of cooking in their kitchens, a visit to the on-site restaurant at least once is a must. Here, the chef creates traditional Chianti dishes using only the freshest locally sourced ingredients, including seasonal vegetables from the kitchen’s garden, the property’s very own IGP Tuscan extra virgin olive oil, local cold meats and cheeses, and game like pheasant and wild boar, hunted on the property’s grounds. The Selvolinis also run the on-site winery, which showcases the Sangiovese grape in a variety of wines to enjoy at dinner as well as sample and purchase at the local wine shop.