Castello di Ripa D'Orcia Castiglione d'Orcia

The Castello di Ripa d'Orcia is located right in the heart of Tuscany's enchanting Orcia valley, just a short drive or bike ride away from the hilltop towns of Montalcino, Pienza, San Quirico d'Orcia and Bagno Vignoni.

Although its is extremely likely that the castle was built much earlier, the first documentation regarding the Castello dates back to 1218, when it was mentioned in the census of land and castles as belonging to the Salimbeni dynasty. The current proprietors are descendents of the Piccolomini Carli lineage who came into ownership of the castle and a large part of the surrounding land in 1484. Since that time remarkably few changes have been made to the castle and the ancient hamlet within its grounds.

Guests stay in the centuries old dwellings of the "Borgo", in any of 8 self catering apartments comprised of one or two bedrooms, large living room with kitchenette, open fireplace, bathroom, and sitting room, and decorated with traditional Tuscan country style furniture. A further 6 double bedrooms with characteristic exposed beam ceilings and "cotto" floor tiles are available for shorter stays.

A delightful public room with fireplace is situated in a room which was once the old granary, and offers an attractive place where to read or socialise. For those wishing to bask in the Tuscan sun, a solarium has been created in the gardens.

Guests dining at the Ripa d'Orcia restaurant enjoy the best Tuscan cuisine, choosing from a selection of simple dishes prepared using local seasonal ingredients. The excellent wines produced on the estate provide the perfect accompaniment. For both connoisseurs and the simply curious, fascinating wine tastings are held in the old cellar, by appointment.