In the heart of Tuscany Italy, near the mythic cities of Florence, Siena and San Gimignano, is Castello di Casole – A Timbers Resorts Hotel & Residences. One of the largest private estates in all of Italy, Castello di Casole is set among 4,200 acres of rolling hills, sweeping valleys, Tuscan vineyards and olive groves.
Casale Vemignano commands one of the estate’s most prominent hilltops, offering unobstructed vistas in every direction, from the Castello to Casole d’Elsa, Mensano, even to San Gimignano in the distance. The residential compound of three restored buildings and grounds command an expansive grassy plateau above olive orchards that completely surround the property.
The primary residence is organized around a long, open living area with exposed stone walls subtly sectioned off by arched doorways and windows. Magnificent hardwood doors open onto the pergola or patio for evening dining in the spring, summer and fall. The original forno is adjacent to create a warm and intimate dining experience. Two very large master suites on the second floor combined with two large outer sitting rooms offer each suite complete privacy and stunning views of the countryside. There are courtyards everywhere, including a porch opening off the primary guest quarters.
The North Guest Residence, with a soaking tub fronting a massive arched window, is among the most romantic in all of Tuscany. In a property where there is astonishing architecture at every turn, perhaps most memorable is the dazzling glass tiled infinity pool, pictured above, soaring off one edge of the property into the Tuscan hills.
Vemignano is approached from a country lane that crosses meadows, winds up through a forest and then opens to reveal the residence, which crowns the hillside. Olive orchards encircle the property, which offers views in every directions. Vemignano is ideally located within the overall Castello estate, close enough to make the hotel and spa little more than an invigorating walk, but like all the casale, exceptionally private. The 100 acres of Sangiovese and Cabernet vineyards are used to make a private-label vintage that is only available at the estate. In addition, there are 30 acres olive groves that are harvested to create a private-label extra virgin olive oil unlike no other.
Vemignano is a residence that continually delights, as there is discovery around every corner.
The primary residence is organized around a long, open living area with exposed stone walls subtly sectioned off by arched doorways and windows. Magnificent hardwood doors open onto the pergola or patio for evening dining in the spring, summer and fall. The original forno is adjacent to create a warm and intimate dining experience.
Like all of the Castello residences, interiors are warmed by traditional Tuscan style fireplaces. In the kitchen are a hand-carved marble sink, magnificent DeManincor gas and wood-burning stove and Gianfranco Ballerini refrigerators.
Upstairs are two very large master suites each with its own expansive sitting room. The suites afford complete privacy and stunning views of the countryside. Master baths are of course always works of art, with separate areas for shower, deep soaking tubs, toilet, bidet and double-vanity. Bisazza Mosaic tile work; Axor and Philippe Stark fixtures.
Resort Amenities for Villa Guests
GUEST RESIDENCE ONE
Guest Residence One, with a soaking tub fronting a massive arched window, is among the most romantic in all of Tuscany. From here, the view is one of the most stunning in all of Tuscany, reaching more than 20 kilometers to the towered town of San Gimignano. The massive arched window spans half the length of the main room, which is lavishly dedicated entirely to the white marble bath set into an expansive black marble floor. Three steps ascend to the sleeping quarters. This remarkable space is certain to be a coveted and unforgettable stay for the fortunate guests.
GUEST RESIDENCE TWO
Running the full length of the central courtyard, the Guest Residence Two is a study in elegant simplicity. Three soft patina arched doors lead to courtyards and the pool, each a different diameter, one Dutch, one with leaded glass, all inviting the curious eye. The master suite is expansive and opens to a courtyard ruin with an arch framing the countryside views. The bath is equal parts art, architecture and theater. Vanities, shower, bath and toilet are centered in a long space, glass to one side, massive stone wall to the other. Chrome and white fixtures play off against beautiful soft brown tile. Light, airy yet very private, it is a bath suite quite unlike any in the world.
MEALS
Daily breakfast included. Prepared in the villa by the Governate.
Dinner is provided one evening of your choice
Welcome Pack – Basic Grocery needs:
Sparkling & Still water
Coke
Diet Coke
AMENITIES
Two Interior Traditional Tuscan Fireplaces
Forno, or Wood-Burning Oven
Fully Furnished with Tuscan Marble, Ceramics and Italian Designer Fabrics
5 TVs, DVD Players, iPod dock, WiFi, Phone, Washing machine, Dryer, Fireplace, baby crib, Parking
Outdoor dining, BBQ
Refrigerator and pantry will be stocked with practical necessities and treasures from local markets, State of the art electronics including flat panel satellite TV’s and wireless internet.
POOL DETAILS
Heated Infinity-Edged Glass-Tiled Swimming Pool (heated May – October)
STAFF DETAILS
Housekeeper: 7 days per week, 9am-4pm
Manager: 7 days per week
Security Guard: 7 days per week
Bilingual Concierge available on site to assist guests
Personal Chef available at an additional cost
BEDROOM DETAILS
4 King Bedrooms
2 Bedrooms in main house
2 Guest Residences
LOCATION DETAILS
Airport: 45 minutes (Florence)
Train station: 25 min
VILLA NOTES
Rentals are Sunday to Sunday
A private car can be arranged on request
Extensive private hiking trail that can be utilized for biking and running through the vast Tuscan countryside
Discounted Rates will be available both at the hotel restaurant and on spa treatments as well
Private animal watching tours and guided day trips available with the Castello game wardens
Special discounted rates at the hotel restaurant as well as on spa treatments
TUSCANY VILLA NOTES
Due to limited transportation in outlying and rural areas, a rental car is essential for stays at countryside villas in Italy. We are more than happy to arrange a car for you during your stay, please just let us know at time of booking.
Please note that Italy villas rent from Saturday to Saturday. Exceptions may be possible on a case by case basis and upon request.
The Italian government has implemented a Visitor’s Tax of €1.50 per person per day and applies to all overnight stays for the first seven days in the destination. This tax is payable to the local property manager.
