Travel

Liz reviews Castelfalfi: “a Tuscan haven of rural luxury”

Liz shares a review of her stay at Castelfalfi, a luxury estate in Tuscany, Italy.

Embedded in the heart of Tuscany, not far from Pisa, Castelfalfi Hotel and Spa is the most perfect blend of luxury, natural beauty and authentic Italian charm.

This enchanting destination is more than just a hotel; it’s a sprawling estate with a rich history and a commitment to sustainable living. From organic wine and olive oil production to honey harvesting and family-friendly activities, Castelfalfi offers an immersive experience that feels both indulgent and wholesome, seamlessly marrying rural allure with gourmet gastronomy.

The BF and I found a stay here to be a truly restorative and memorable break for both our souls and senses.

Liz reviews Castelfalfi

A taste of Tuscany

From the moment we arrived, we felt enveloped in the deep calm of the Tuscan countryside. Surrounded by 2,700 acres of vineyards, olive groves and woodlands, the estate feels both expansive and intimate – a rare combination ideal for solace-seeking as well as adventure.

The hotel’s architecture, thoughtfully preserving the heritage of the original medieval village, invites you to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect with the natural world. The estate’s vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see and the commitment to organic farming, from farm-to-fork (and wine glass), is impressive. A highlight was the chance to taste their traditionally-made organic wines. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just enjoy a good glass of vino, these tutored tasting sessions with charming sommelier, Enrico, are a must-try. The wines here aren’t just about flavour; they tell a story of the land and the people who lovingly tend it.

Equally special is the estate’s extra virgin olive oil, cold-pressed from their own olive groves and bottled either plain, or with a range of flavours (the aromatic truffle oil was my favourite, The BF chose spicey chili). There’s also Castelfalfi honey, with the owner’s love of nature extending to beekeeping, as bees buzz happily here amidst the Tuscan flora. We enjoyed a beekeeping experience, learning about the importance of these pollinators in our ecosystem and how this golden nectar is harvested – especially good family fun. In fact, it’s a fantastic place for families, with a range of activities for all ages, from cooking classes to guided nature walks, e-bikes and golf lessons. Unusually, there’s something for everyone.

A feast for the senses

No review of Castelfalfi would be complete without covering its exceptional culinary offerings. There are six restaurants on site, each with a unique perspective on Tuscan cuisine. The menus focus on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, with many of the vegetables and herbs picked from the hotel’s own kitchen gardens, the rest from local farmers and growers.

Whether dining at the super-swish La Rocca di Castelfalfi with its breathtaking views, treating the kids to the best pizza north of Naples at Il Rosmarino or enjoying the vibe of the chic outdoor terrace of Olivina, each dish was a true delight. Plus Bar Ecru, Club House and Gliglio Blu offer the perfect spot for enjoying a relaxed lunch.

Most memorable? I was blown-away by a simple plate of finely sliced tomatoes – the flavour and taste of which was beyond any other.

Spa sanctuary

The recently opened RAKxa Spa at Castelfalfi is also a delight. Sublimely chic in design and offering a range of genuinely good treatments. The spa also features an indoor-outdoor pool with stunning views of the Tuscan countryside, a perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring the estate.

The garden infinity pool, set amidst billowing wildflower beds, also provides a panoramic view of the Tuscan hills. Alongside the pools are saunas, steam rooms and – my favourite – a cold-plunge pool. There’s also a state-of-the-art gym, complete with a very good set of heavy weights (rare in hotel gyms), complimentary protein bars and a Nespresso machine – impressive!

Bocelli beach

Just an hour’s car ride away brings you to the smart seaside town of Forte di Marmi, where you’ll find Alpemare, the singer Andrea Bocelli’s stylish beach club. Castelfalfi guests can enjoy exclusive access to this glamorous watering hole, with its colourful chandelier-clad giraffes, cyan striped cabanas and up-market beach bars.

A favourite with the cognoscenti for seafood, Bocelli family wines and, of course, its background music. Sitting at painted wooden tables (next to a clearly famous Italian boy band we alone didn’t recognise), we ate grilled calamari and shrimp pasta, washed down with Aperol spritz, before getting the white sand between our toes on the beach. A hidden gem, Alpemare is a must-visit for a chic day of contrast between seaside and countryside.

Nearby historic towns

While Castelfalfi itself offers plenty to see and do, the surrounding area is rich with historic towns and many other spots well worth exploring. A short drive away is San Gimignano, often referred to as the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages” for its multi-medieval towers.

Another gem is Volterra, an Etruscan town with beautifully preserved medieval architecture. Wander through its cobblestone streets, visit the Roman Theatre or explore the alabaster workshops that the town is famous for (I bought some lovely bathroom accessories here, reasonably priced too).

More into art and culture? Florence is within reach for a day trip, with its iconic landmarks such as the Uffizi Gallery, Florence Cathedral and the Ponte Vecchio. And of course, you can’t leave without a visit to Pisa, home to the iconic Leaning Tower (and more besides).

In a nutshell

Castelfalfi Hotel and Spa is that rare gem: a simply perfect blend of thoughtful luxury, natural goodness and authentic sustainability. Whether sipping their delicious organic wine, savouring the rich flavours of their olive oil, or indulging in the rural beauty of the estate, every moment here feels like a celebration of life’s simple pleasures.

The addition of the RAKxa Spa adds a new layer of relaxation, making it an ideal wellness destination for both rejuvenation as well as adventure. And with so many historic towns and picturesque spots nearby, Castelfalfi serves as the perfect base for exploring the beauty and history of Tuscany.

If you’re looking for somewhere very special that offers a little bit of everything– fine food, beautiful scenery and plenty of wholesome activities, I have to say that Castelfalfi is an unbeatable choice.

Rates at Castelfalfi start at €600 (approx. £510) for a deluxe room, including breakfast and taxes.*

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