Castello di Spaltenna - Gaiole in Chianti, Italy     

This was our last third stop on our Tuscany trip, having stayed at Castello di Velona in Montalchino and Hotel Lungarno in Florance. From the website photos, we thought we would like Castello Velona better, but staying here was much more enjoyable. The property has gorgeous grounds in a fairytale setting and is perfect for a 3 night stay or a base to explore the area. The first room, in the main castle building, they tried to give us was not up to my standards. It was dark/gloomy, sparse and shabby looking. They were very agreeable about showing us 2 more rooms in that same catagory, as well as the 2 available balcony suites in one of the outer buildings (extra 150E per night). The comparable room we chose in one of the out buildings, next to the pool, was so much better, with a beamed ceiling and 2 nice windows. I knew in advance not to expect chic and stylish furniture and decor, but this room satisified me with its rustic charm and great view and property location in a beautiful stone cottage. They could definately benefit by updating some of the room interiors, but there are alot of people who would think it was just fine. We loved the wildly lush green grounds and the layout of the property with several buildings, very charming. The staff was very eager to please us (it helps to be nice). My husband and I were celebrating our 20th anniversery and this property is very romantic with alot of places around the property to explore. Sitting by the pool in one of the variety of private corners and terraces was wonderful with views of 3 castles in the distant hills. Breakfast was topnotch on a lush terrace and we enjoyed after dinner drinks in the stoned tavern. Dinner in the interior courtyard was unforgettable and worth every penny. We did a multi course tasting and the food was quite inventive and absolutely delicious. We both thought it was much better than some of the other 400e dinners we had in Italy in restaurants rated as the best in Italy. In fact, it was so good and unexpected, we asked to meet and thank the chef personally. In the area, you will also enjoy a visit to one of the most incredible wineries, Campanalle, state of the art and the property is beautiful, owned by the Orient Express hotel guy. We also had a great meal in a local restaurant with an outdoor seating area a 10 minute walk away. It is in a building that is before you get into the town square area (can't remember the name), but it was more modern inside with wonderful food.

We stayed at Castello di Spaltenna about 8 years ago so we were a bit nervous that it would not live up to our memories. We came this time for a week and it was fabulous. We had a great room with separate lounge (which we weren't expecting). The breakfasts are amazing. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The views are great and best of all the town of Gaiole is a five minute walk - and it has several restaurants (our favourite was Osteria al Ponte). It is not really geared up for kids (I would say that about the whole region). The hotel restaurant is quite formal but very good food.