Photos courtesy of Castello di Spaltenna
The ancient feudal hamlet of Castello di Spaltenna includes a church and 1000-year-old bell tower. The castle itself, which began life as a monastery, dates from the 11th century and is documented at nearby Coltibuono Abbey.
Pamela’s Perspective
Ask for a room with a view of the valley, which is much nicer than the view of the town of Gaiole in Chianti. The corner rooms, with heavy lattice wood beamed ceilings are the best.
Castello di Spaltenna
A 12th-century castle
Contact
53013 Gaiole in Chianti
(Siena)
Tel: ++39 0577 749 269
Fax: ++39 0577 749 483
Hotel website
Reserve with Booking.com
Reserve with Venere
Fast facts
30 double rooms
8 suites
Double rooms: 230–330 euros
Suites: from 380–540 euros
Single rooms: 15% discount
Tower Suite: 2600 euros
Rates include breakfast, tax,
and service.
Open: mid-March through mid-January
Getting there
The castle is about 25 km north of Sienna. Gaiole has a bus stop; the nearest train station is 21 km away in Montevarchi.
What to do
On site: spa; two swimming
pools; tennis
Nearby: horseback riding;
hiking; Tuscan hill towns; golf
This former monastery still retains some medieval touches with its beamed ceilings, terra-cotta tiled floors, and thick stone walls.
Guest rooms can be in the main building or stone annexes. They are tastefully decorated with country-style antiques and wrought-iron bed frames; some have fireplaces and Jacuzzis.
An internal courtyard transforms into a candlelit, flower-filled dining area every evening, with harp or violin music to serenade patrons. On cooler evenings, dinner is moved indoors to the ancient cloister.
Something special
Tower of Vertine A km away from the main castle, the entire tower is given over to one suite that is divided into six levels. The top level holds a solarium and aromatherapy tub, with views that stretch out over the Tuscan landscape. A private butler tends to your needs, be it helping with the private cellar or arranging for your helicopter to set down on the helipad.