CASTELLO GRANDUCA – Tuscany

This splendid historical castle is situated on the Tuscan coast, just opposite the island of Elba, with views over an olive grove, and within easy reach of many artistically and historically interesting Tuscan towns. Built during the first decade of the 16th century, it has been the residence of many Tuscan Grand Dukes over the years. In 1860, it passed into the hands of a noble Tuscan family, who transformed it into a historical house, open to all those who wanted a unique holiday experience on the Etruscan Riviera. Subsequent renovations, supervised by the Italian Monuments and Fine Arts Office have been carried out since 1900, and today the castle represents one of the most important monuments in the region, offering guests the chance to live in a historical residence, while enjoying all modern comforts.

The accommodation is on two floors and the architecture, furnishings and décor are of a late 16th century noble Tuscan style. There are 5 double bedrooms, 5 bedroom suites and a superior ‘Granduca’ suite, all equipped with air conditioning, mini bar, safe, satellite TV, telephone, modem access, radio and alarm clock. The bathrooms are all hand-painted, with travertine marble and equipped with hairdryers. Further amenities include satellite TV, VCR, DVD, CD player and ADSL internet access. The rental of the property includes a hotel service. Continental breakfast is provided each morning and a welcome dinner on arrival. The preparation of lunch or dinner each day is also included and a chef is available for other meals as well. There are fixed rate menu selections which can be made either prior to arrival or during the stay, at additional cost.

The garden, to the rear, is accessed through the entrance hall and out through a set of double glass doors. There is a rose bed and a well maintained lawn furnished with comfortable outdoor chairs. A large patio with tables, chairs, and umbrellas, ideal for dining outdoors. The swimming pool is at the end of the garden and has gate access. It overlooks an olive grove and pine trees. There is also a Jacuzzi and a fitness room, equipped with new machines, as well as a changing room and bathroom. The property is accessed by a private cypress and pine tree lined driveway, through impressive gates into the front garden and parking area. A variety of activities and excursion can be arranged during guests’ stay. These include visits to wineries and olive mills, boat trips to Elba, horse riding, tennis and massages.

Ground Floor
Fabulous entrance hall. Small sitting room/study. Sitting room with fireplace and a bar in the corner. Sitting room/TV room. Dining room. Kitchen.

First Floor
Accessed by two staircases. The first staircase leads to:
Suite 7, opening to a large terrace, 2 double bedrooms (Rooms 5 & 6)). Suite 4.
Descending this staircase, there is a mezzanine level with another double bedroom (Room 9), a junior suite (Room 8) and a staircase leading to the attic, which has another junior suite (Suite 10. This room has exposed ceiling beams and lovely views.

The second staircase leads to the imposing Grand Duke’s bedroom (Suite 3) with views over both the front and rear gardens. It has antique furnishings, a 17th century bed head and a grand piano. The staircase also leads to Suites 1 and 2, one overlooking the front garden and one overlooking the rear garden.

Daily maid service included from 8 a.m. – 12.00. Continental breakfast is included, and the preparation and service of lunch or dinner each day. Linen and towels are changed twice a week. Personal laundry service is extra.

Etruscan tombs 10 kms
Pelagone Golf Club 15 kms
Punta Ala 20 kms
San Gimignano 75 kms
Siena 95 kms
Florence 120 kms