Podere Castellare
Diacceto, Chianti
Enjoy laidback lounging and a warm welcome in this fun, brightly coloured and stylish hotel in the Tuscan hills, an easy drive from Florence
Stunning view? Yes. Tranquil countryside? Yes. Ancient olive
groves? Yes. This hotel has all the ingredients of a top Tuscan
getaway; but a little something extra...
Podere Castellare is set apart thanks to the warm hospitality of
the Cecconi family and the friendly and incredibly laidback
ambience that they have created. With loving care and attention to
detail, this former family home has been converted into an
informal, stylish 14-room hotel. From the funky, colourful rooms to
the choice of handmade soaps, it's these little touches that make
all the difference. Fresh red gerberas float next to the vivid pink
pillars on the restaurant balcony. Lime green Starck armchairs sit
on a vast terrace overlooking a panorama of rolling hills and
bright blue towels lie waiting on sunloungers next to a cool pool.
Whether you want to explore and sightsee or simply relax and enjoy
the view, you'll feel very at home and want to stay for a while...
Reviewed by Emma Taylor
Last updated 14 February 2012
Highs
- Funky pool and quirky, colourful rooms, most with great views and outside space
- Friendly, relaxed atmosphere - also welcoming for children and the occasional pet
- Amazing views of olive groves, vineyards, woodland and Tuscany's rolling hills
- Perfectly located for trips around Chianti, to Florence and other parts of Tuscany; and Pelago only 3km away
- Eco-friendly - organic homegrown produce, solar panels, eco air freshening systems in rooms...
Lows
- Communal dining might not be for everyone, but there are separate tables outside when the weather is warm (all summer)
- Although it's just a 5-minute walk to the nearby village, you'll need to hire a car
- Food and fitness facilities seem to deteriorate in the last few weeks before hotel closes in November and a lick of paint here and there wouldn't go amiss
- Mountain bikes looking a bit tired
