Stay at Castello Di Tornano Wine Relais in Gaiole in Chianti

Castello Di Tornano Wine Relais occupies a medieval castle with origins dating back to 760 AD, set on a hillside in the Chianti Classico wine region. The property includes an outdoor swimming pool that was originally the castle moat, a tennis court, and a medieval stone-vaulted chapel available for blessings. Seven self-catering apartments with rustic decor and private gardens are adjacent to the main castle, offering views over the surrounding vineyards and olive groves.

Rooms are named after literary figures and feature four-poster beds, private gardens, and panoramic terraces that overlook the Tuscan hills. Each room in the castle retains original medieval elements such as stone walls and wooden beams, while providing air conditioning and a minibar. The tower room at the top of the castle offers a 360-degree view of the landscape and a rooftop terrace for stargazing.

The on-site restaurant serves Tuscan specialties prepared with ingredients sourced from the immediate area, including game meats, pasta, and the signature Bistecca alla Fiorentina cooked over an open wood fire. Daily wine tastings present the estate's own Chianti Classico wines, produced from the vineyards surrounding the castle. Themed dinner nights, happy hour, and a snack bar are available, with special diet menus and kids' meals offered upon request.

Guests can join cooking classes led by the chef to learn how to prepare fresh tortellini and other Tuscan dishes using herbs from the castle's garden. E-bikes are available for rent to explore the Chianti countryside, and guided walking tours of the vineyards and olive groves are offered. Table tennis, tennis court access, and board games for children are provided on-site.

The castle is 18 km from Siena and within easy driving distance of Florence, Montepulciano, and San Gimignano. Access to scenic hiking and biking trails starts directly from the property, through the protected wild forests of Chianti. A shuttle service can be arranged for transfers to local towns, and car hire is available through the hotel.

Location: Chianti Classico wine region, 18 km from Siena

Rooms: Tower room with 360-degree view and rooftop terrace

Dining: Open-fire Bistecca alla Fiorentina and daily wine tastings of estate wines

Activities: Cooking classes with the chef, e-bike rentals, guided vineyard tours

Family: Seven self-catering apartments with rustic decor

Pet: Pet-friendly with pet bowls and designated areas