Castello di Vicarello

Castello di Vicarello is in the heart of Tuscany’s wild Maremma countryside, located between Rome and Florence, and is surrounded by 40 hectares (400,000 square meters) of organic vineyards, olive groves, and farmland.

The estate captures the essence of contemporary luxury – an experience offering total seclusion, award-winning accommodation and exceptional cuisine.

Situated 350 meters above sea level, Poggi del Sasso is not simply a sanctuary away from everything and everyone, it is where both silence and the roar of uncontaminated nature meet.

Striking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west offer cool late-spring and summer breezes, the dense forests and the flowing Ombrone river below creates dramatic and favorable contrasts in temperature year-round.

Our estate and castle was built by the Republic of Siena over 900 years ago and offers an atmosphere unrivalled in Italy’s most famous region of Tuscany.

THE HISTORY
Surrounding the estate, and set against a dramatic backdrop of the macchia mediterranea and ancient olive groves, you will find our vineyards. Seven hectares of high-density, organically grown vineyards produce our two wines, Terre di Vico and Castello di Vicarello.

The fertile soil in our vineyards, due to the proximity to the sea and the choice of cultivars, only begins to tell the story of our organic wines. What truly sets our wine apart is the passion and dedication that Carlo Baccheschi Berti has for the craft.

THE VINEYARDS
Our high-density approach to cultivation produces rich, complex, and intense wines, made to be enjoyed now or in the future. The intertwined narrative of the vines, land, climate, dedication and passion all converge and live within every bottle.

Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot were each chosen to honor the classic wines of Tuscany. Sangiovese, a staple of Tuscan winemaking is blended with Merlot to create an alternative interpretation of the Maremma.

Our seven hectares range from 11,000 to 14,000 plants per hectare and are divided between classic cordon training and ancient “alberello”, or head spur, training. Natural sulphur and copper are the only treatments we use in our organic vineyards.

THE FARM
Organic ingredients, whether grown on our property or sourced from local farmers, are nurtured in our Italian kitchen gardens and harvested when at their most flavorsome.

Our property has been organic since the beginning – not a trend, but our way of life, and the ultimate appreciation for sustainability and Tuscan traditions.

THE CULINARY GARDENS
We cultivate over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs in our vegetable garden, set within our olive grove. The garden supplies our estate with the highest quality selection of fresh, seasonal produce.

Our chefs use these organic ingredients to create delicious farm to table meals that incorporate the flavors of rustic, Tuscan cuisine.

THE OLIVE GROVE
Our natural surroundings of olive trees, vineyards, and lush Tuscan forests provide a stress-free environment to revitalize your mind and body.

ROOMS & SUITES
Sensitively restored and elegantly decorated, the guest suites feature original stone and brick walls, a tasteful mélange of antique and modern furniture, and an oriental touch stemming from the Baccheschi Berti family’s years spent in Indonesia.

TORRE SUITE
Our most prestigious suite occupies an entire floor at the highest point of the castle and boasts stunning, 360-degree panoramic views of Vicarello.

Guests are spoiled by unique art pieces, a spacious living area with a fireplace, a traditional Tuscan roof, a large bathroom featuring an Italian marble bathtub, and a private outdoor terrace overlooking the central courtyard (110 sq. m)

VILLA CHIESINA SUITE
A private villa with olive wood floorboards and traditional Tuscan design, perched on a cliffside surrounded by lush vegetation and trees.

Enjoy two floors of spacious interiors, a pergola with outdoor seating, a private terrace boasting exceptional views of the countryside and the infinity pool, a private cantina (wine cellar), a large bathroom with a shower and freestanding bathtub, and a modern collection of art. (150 sq. m).

FOOD & WINE
Simple Italian food using locally sourced ingredients; this is the foundation and inspiration for all the meals we prepare. All of our vegetables are grown on the estate, and we use only organically raised meats and cheeses. Join us in our 900-year-old family kitchen and learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine with Signora Aurora, author of ‘My Tuscan Kitchen’.

Our wines are made by two generations of the Baccheschi Berti family, Carlo and eldest son Brando. Finding inspiration in the wines of Bordeaux, Carlo sought to realize his dream of creating a Tuscan wine akin to those of the celebrated terroir.

We cultivate over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs in our vegetable garden, set within our olive grove. The garden supplies our estate with the highest quality selection of fresh, seasonal produce.

Our chefs use these organic ingredients to create delicious farm to table meals that incorporate the flavors of rustic, Tuscan cuisine.

THE BREAKFAST
A special, organic breakfast using ingredients from our gardens, chickens, and bees is served daily; enjoy a fulfilling start to your day in our charming courtyard, under the grape pergola, our indoor glass verandah or in-room.

Try our famous formaggione ricotta sourced by the best local producers and delivered weekly. Visit our hen house and collect fresh eggs for your cooking class or next day’s breakfast. All our juices and cakes are made daily by our passionate culinary team

DINING
Guests are spoilt for choice here at Vicarello; enjoy candle lit dinners on our grassy terrace with 360 degree views of the Maremma, or dine inside the castle in our romantic glass verandah off the family kitchen.

• Ristorante La Terrazza – During our warmer months you can dine on top of the castle with vast views of the Maremma, on candlelit tables, under the stars.
• Small Bites Menu – Sample many flavours of Tuscany with this unique menu offered between lunch and dinner, available in-room or poolside.
• Romantic Dinner – We have many secret locations for the perfect romantic dining experience within our ancient castle – available upon request.

COOKING CLASS
Enjoy an authentic culinary journey into the heart of gourmet Tuscany alongside our chef’s team. Master the seasonal flavors of Tuscan cuisine, and sample the finest wines the region has to offer:

• 3 night minimum reservation in one of our exclusive suites including: the Vicario Suite, Sassi, Chiesina and the newly opened, luxurious Spa Suite.
• A welcome bottle of Spumente on arrival
• A cooking class, for two, using fresh ingredients from our organic gardens. Learn the secrets of our Tuscan Kitchen and discover the joy of preparing simple, yet delicious dishes from garden to plate. In the evening for dinner you will sample the results of your culinary journey

THE WINES
Our wines are made by two generations of the Baccheschi Berti family, Carlo and eldest son Brando. Finding inspiration in the wines of Bordeaux, Carlo sought to realize his dream of creating a Tuscan wine akin to those of the celebrated terroir.

THE LAND
Poggi del Sasso is where peaceful silence meets the roar of uncontaminated nature. The Tyrrhenian Sea to the west offers cool late-spring and summer breezes.

Monte Amiata to the southeast gives our vineyards protection from strong winds. The dense forests and flowing Ombrone river below the estate allow for favorable fluctuations in temperature.

This is a land deep in the heart of the Mediterranean Basin. The ancient soils of our vineyards are rich in clay minerals and marine deposits. Full of calcium and other micronutrients, this land produces lush vegetation and incredible wines.

THE WELLNESS
At Castello di Vicarello our therapists offer wellbeing and massage therapies using organic oils and ingredients from the castle gardens.

Treatments can be enjoyed in the privacy of your suite or set within the beautiful gardens surrounded by the heady scents of lavender and jasmine. There are many wellbeing, spa and beauty treatments available and each session is tailored to your personal requirements.

THE MASSAGES
Our therapists offer wellbeing and massage therapies using organic oils and ingredients from the castle gardens. Treatments can be enjoyed in the privacy of your suite or set within the beautiful gardens surrounded by the heady scents of lavender and jasmine.

YOGA
Relax and revive with a private yoga class set amidst our tranquil country estate. Sooth the mind, body and soul whilst immersed in unspoilt countryside with enchanting views of the Maremma region.

FITNESS
We offer the choice of an independent walk through the countryside via a guided path to the Ombrone River, or a private training session specific to your fitness regime.

THE SWIMMING POOL
Sit by our infinity pool and take in the stunning views of the surrounding valley or seek total isolation at our second pool set amongst an olive grove.

WEDDINGS IN TUSCANY
Our estate offers a romantic destination in Tuscany and is a much sought-after location for weddings or exclusive rentals – an opportunity to enjoy your own castle in Italy.

A civil ceremony or a blessing can be held within the Castle itself or at a romantic spot in the garden. Alternatively, Castello di Vicarello can organise and recommend the following local, lovely churches in which to hold a Catholic ceremony.

Be it an intimate affair or an extravagant function, every corner of this dreamy property is yours to enjoy and explore. Celebrate in gardens of lavender and climbing roses, or groves of ancient olive trees.

Welcome your guests at the castle and invite them to a barbeque on the panoramic field. Enjoy an aperitif in the courtyard and enjoy stunning sunset views from the roof terrace.

Experience a gala dinner under the stars, followed by an open barrique bar. There are no restrictions at your wedding – dance to a live band or a DJ until the sun rises.

The Baccheschi Berti family has over 15 years of experience in hosting weddings. Every detail can be taken care of in order to make your wedding unforgettable, including home-grown organic cuisine, award-winning wines, fresh flowers, table settings, marquees, decorations, music, and entertainment.

For Aurora Baccheschi Berti, each wedding is special and unique. As a former fashion designer, her meticulous attention to detail is evident in every aspect of presentation of service.

ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES
Country house wedding celebrations offer something special for all guests with both pre- and-post wedding activities available for members of the wedding.

Let Castello di Vicarello spoil your guests and immerse them in an authentic Tuscan lifestyle, by participating in a cooking lesson in the castle’s rustic kitchen, enjoy a wine tasting in one of the private vineyards or explore the region whilst biking through Maremma.

Simply relax while enjoying the spa facilities or unwind with a massage overlooking the vineyards and the distant medieval villages of this charming part of Tuscany.

Take advantage of the authentic, Tuscan experiences that Castello di Vicarello offers, and turn them into unforgettable memories.

With an emphasis on nature, food, wine and wellbeing, experiences are tailored to the seasons and designed to allow guests to immerse themselves in the natural rhythms of Tuscan life.

WINE TASTING
Sample award winning wines from organic grapes grown and harvested on our estate. Carlo Baccheschi Berti and his oldest son, Brando, have established a highly successful vineyard on the slopes around the castle

HIKING & BIKING
Take a trek or a bike ride through vineyards, forests, meadows, and olive groves, and enjoy the beauty of the majestic Maremma region. Discover the hidden valleys and high hills with a guided tour, or venture out on your own using our signed trails.

TRUFFLE HUNTING
Learn the art of truffle hunting with an experienced truffle hunter and his dogs. Seek our this gourmet ingredient and savour the seasonal flavours of this Tuscan delicacy.

LEATHER WORKSHOP
Experience a leather-working course with Era Balestrieri, famous leather creator whose story has been featured in the NY Times Style Magazine. Spend time making a handcrafted belt or simple leather purse.

GRAPE HARVEST
Are you interested in learning about the process of wine making? There is no better place to begin than in the heart of our vineyards, where you will learn how to properly harvest the grapes.

OLIVE HARVEST
Take to the olive grove in the autumn and experience the joys of traditional olive harvest, discover the traditional methods of olive-picking and sample the freshly pressed organic oils

HORSE RIDING
What better way to discover the beauty of the Tuscan countryside than by riding through the Maremma hills or coastline? Our skilled guides lead both individual and smaller group treks, with horse riding available for both experienced and novice riders

THE SURROUNDINGS
For guests with a bigger appetite for adventure, the wonderful sights of Tuscany are right at your fingertips. The areas surrounding Castello di Vicarello are packed with beauty, history, and culture.

MONTE ARGENTARIO
A unique, rugged area with a rich history and a seafaring tradition due to its coves and beaches. The two main towns are Porto Santo Stefano, and on the opposite side, Porto Ercole. In Porto Santo Stefano, enjoy a glamorous seaside stroll on the promenade, observe the boats in the harbour, or set sail for nearby islands.

If you are visiting in August, you can also enjoy the “Palio Marinaro”, an annual 4000m rowing regatta. In Porto Ercole, venture on a scenic hike to the peak of Mt. Argentario, or explore the restaurants, shops, and fisherman huts that make up the vibrant atmosphere of the town.

CASTIGLIONE DELLA PESCAIA
This medieval town is a renowned seaside resort, dotted with restaurants, cafes, and beautiful beaches. It is also a good starting point for bicycle trips on the coast or inland.

TALAMONE
A charming fishing village that sits on a small promontory, overlooked by a medieval fortress. There are a few beaches, including one that is loved by sailors, surfers, and kite-surfers.

PITIGLIANO
Characterised by volcanic tuff stone, the area of Pitigliano interrupts the typical Tuscan landscape of small farmhouses and soft, green hills. Explore ancient, narrow pathways carved into the tuff by the Ertruscans. Not far from here sits Lake Bolsena, a lake of volcanic and tectonic origin.

SORANO
Setting foot in Sorano from the surrounding plains, you feel as though you have entered another world. Squeezed along the top of a rocky ridge, and overlooking the Lente river below, this town has stayed miraculously unchanged for the last few centuries.

Over time, the blocks of tufaceous rock from which houses are built have taken on the same color as the cliffside, making for a picturesque landscape.

SOVANA
Home to an important Ertruscan necropolis, Sovana is an authentic medieval town with several monuments of interest to see, including ruins of an ancient fortress, and the charming Romanesque ‘Church of Santa Maria’. This small town won’t take long to explore, but will leave a lasting impression nonetheless.

ST. ANTIMO ABBEY
Not far from Montalcino, this Benedictine monastery is one of the most gorgeous architectural jewels from the Roman era still standing today. Beautifully immersed in nature, and built with travertine stone, this majestic abbey is a must-see.

SIENA
Italy’s most romantic medieval city, this historic centre has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason. Siena is well known for everything from cuisine, to art, to its unique medieval cityscape.

Lonely Planet aptly describes Siena as a “giant, open-air museum celebrating the Gothic”. Siena’s central piazza, Il Campo, hosts the world-famous Palio, a horse race held twice every summer, and one of Italy’s most popular traditions.

MONTALCINO
Famous for its prestigious Brunello wine, Montalcino is a fairytale hilltop town with breathtaking scenery. Gabriele D’Annunzio describes the panorama views from Montalcino as “the window sill of the Apocalypse”

Rooms: 8

Price: from 597 EUR per night

Source: www.castellodivicarello.com