Castello di Velona

The stylish Castello di Velona hotel occupies an 11th century fortress and former aristocratic residence overlooking the hills and valleys of the Val d'Orcia as well as the impressive Mount Amiata, Tuscany's highest volcano.

The 24 individually designed suites and guestrooms and suites maintain the building's original fireplaces and architectural features and are decorated with antiques. All rooms have luxury bed linen, air conditioning, satellite television, direct dial telephones and minibars.

Guests can lounge on the grassy sun terraces surrounding the large swimming pool with a drink or cocktail from the poolside bar, relax in the shade and enjoy views of the Val d'Orcia or quietly read in the hotel's library.

Typical Tuscan cuisine is served under age-old olive and cypress trees on the terrace in summer or next to the roaring log fire in the restaurant in winter. The hotel is air conditioned throughout, offers a 24 hour front desk service and secure parking. Guests will find high speed Internet access, a television and complimentary newspapers in the lobby area.

Guests can walk or cycle on the marked paths that line the River Orcia and pass the hotel's doorstep, explore the Montalcino vineyards, just seven kilometers away or visit the Renaissance town of Pienza, which is 30 kilometers away. Florence Vespucci airport is 120 kilometers and a 90 minute drive from the hotel.