Castello di Velona Montalcino - Tuscany.

Castello di Velona will reopen in April 2011.

Castello di Velona is a fortified edifice situated in the countryside just outside the Tuscan hilltop town of Montalcino, in the heart of Val d'Orcia. The castle was constructed in medieval times, in the 11th century. It is believed that the watch tower, still perfectly conserved, was a 13th century addition, erected at a time when the Orcia Valley was the stage of fierce battles between the cities of Florence and Siena. Later, when the castle was transformed in private residence, the main renaissance style loggia was built. The neo-medieval style wing to the rear of the edifice, is of more recent construction. Castello di Velona appears in geographical papers painted by Ignazio Danti, now housed in the Vatican.

The road at the bottom of the hill on which the Castle was built, appears on old maps under the name of Via Clodia; the old Roman road which united southern Etruria with Rome. In the vicinity, one can also see sections of the Via Francigena, the famous pilgrim route built to link Canterbury with Rome. In land close to the Castle, important Etruscan artifacts have been discovered, now exhibited in the museum of Montalcino.

In 1997, the Castle, which by this time had fallen into a state of ruin, came under new ownership and was subsequently to become the subject of a meticulous restoration project. The work ensured that the original structure and characteristics of the edifice were conserved, whilst allowing for its transformation into a luxury resort complete with gourmet restaurants, spa, high-tech function room and panoramic swimming pool and terrace .

Castello di Verona's sumptuous bedrooms and suites, all with view of the Orcia valley or the vineyards surrounding the castle, are elegantly appointed with period artworks and antiques. The careful integration of contemporary technology ensures maximum comfort, whilst leaving the building's old world charm intact.

The resort's "L'Abbazia" and "Taverna Il Vignone" restaurants serve delicious contemporary Tuscan cuisine, accompanied by an impressive selection of the region's world famous wines. During the summer months, light snacks and drinks are served at the pool bar.

Val d'Orcia's hot spring water, rich in mineral salts, is used in many of the treatments performed in Castello di Velona's spa. Wellness facilities include in and outdoor thermal pools, Turkish bath, sauna, and emotional showers.

A unique venue for high profile meetings and romantic weddings, Castello di Velona lies within easy reach of the all the principal towns in Val d'Orcia such as Castiglione, San Quirico, Pienza, and Radicofani. The medieval city of Siena is less than an hour's drive away.