Relais & Chateaux il Borro Valdarno

Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Il Borro is a century-old hamlet surrounded by 1.100 hectares of organic land. Thanks to meticulous restoration that began in 1993 it has been restored to its former glory and now stands as the custodian of tradition, culture and sustainability and today speaks for the most elegant Tuscan hospitality.

“A timeless act of faith”, as Ferruccio Ferragamo loves to say, that started in 1993, when together with his family, he brought the century-old Borro hamlet back to life by promoting the history, the traditions and the excellencies. Authenticity, respect for the environment, culture and enhancement of the local expertise are Il Borro’s pillars of sustainable philosophy which underlie each choice.

An unconquerable stronghold in the XII century, in the mid-50s Il Borro belonged to Duke Amedeo di Savoia-Aosta who owned it until 1993 when Ferruccio Ferragamo became the new owner and the one who can be credited with the Estate’s restoration and refurbishment and for having returned it to its original glories.

Surrounded by the Tuscan hills, Il Borro is now an agricultural estate and organic vineyard, dedicated to hospitality and to farm-to-table catering. Il Borro is the ideal setting where you can feel regenerated and relaxed in the quiet and green Tuscan countryside.

It is, indeed, an oasis of peace which affords a truly relaxing and intimate vacation in close contact with nature, be it in the form of a walk in the surrounding vineyards, in the woods or in the Hamlet, far from the hectic rhythms of everyday life.

A stay at Il Borro means total immersion in Tuscany at its most authentic where the facilities of exclusive hospitality are combined to life in an avant-garde agricultural estate which is inspired by its eco sustainable philosophy.

From wine tours to cooking classes to horseback riding to golf, from the craftsmen’s workshops to the excellent range of Spa treatments: these are the many unique offers for our guests so they can enjoy an authentic Tuscan experience.

Each guest at Il Borro can select different solutions for their stay: the exclusive Dimora Storica, the characteristic Villa Mulino situated in the woods, the romantic Villa Casetta in the Merlot vineyards and lastly, the elegant and refined suites located in the medieval hamlet or in the “Aie del Borro.” For more private stays, the Borrigiani, characterized by an agritourism formula, or the Villas of Viesca in the Florentine countryside are ideal.

THE HISTORY
Il Borro owes its notoriety to several things: first of all, to its architecture and to the conformation of the area where the hamlet is located and then to the important families of the past to which it was historically bound.

The history of Il Borro most likely dates back to Roman times. It is believed that the hamlet was originally a stronghold. During medieval times, this area in the Upper Valdarno was a place where many clashes that took place between the city of Arezzo and Florence.

The first written account of the Castle dates back to the year 1254 when a Milanese nobleman, the Marquis Borro Borri, purchased the property from the Mascagni family. After years of harsh battles between Guelph Florence and Ghibelline Arezzo who fought for centuries for control of the stronghold, the Florentines conquered Arezzo.

Having conquered the Ghibelline city, the Florentines took back all the castles and villas in the municipality and in the rural area of Arezzo. In 1384 even the Borro castle fell under Florentine domination and the Castle was returned to the Dal Borro family when the Archduke Ferdinand granted it as a fief to General Alessandro del Borro (October 4, 1644).

Thanks to him, the XVI marks the start of the first transformations and extension of the stronghold which slowly led to today’s context. In the 18th century, Il Borro and its land was purchased by the Medici Tornaquinci family who retained ownership until 1823 at which time the Borro estate was passed over to Count Giuseppe Della Torre Hoffer Valsassina.

In keeping with the fashion of the time, the Hohenlohe family built a stately home of brick and stone right over the ruins of an ancient dwelling. Besides the castle which today is surrounded by vegetation, the Medici Tornaquinci also erected a small chapel as a sign of their presence at Il Borro.

When it was sold to the Prince Emanuele Filiberto, Duke of Aosta, in 1903, the farm estate comprised some 50 farms and covered over 1000 hectares. Duke Amedeo inherited Il Borro from the Savoia Aosta family and had to reconvert the estate like all other Tuscan farms due to a period of crisis caused by the century old method of sharecropping.

In 1993, Il Borro became property of the Ferragamo family who had fallen in love with the wild nature of the area and the history of the estate. Respect for the traditions and the history of the place guided the family as they began major renovations and restoration of the hamlet and the villas.

THE RESTORATION
Restoration of the ancient structures of Il Borro which at the time of purchase still bore the signs of World War Two required the work of artisans and local craftsmen in order to maintain the allure of the past.

This entailed an ongoing commitment in terms of maintenance and restoration of the ruins in order to contribute to the quality of the countryside. The vast restoration activity further enhanced the environmental heritage which also achieved recognition from the local authorities.

CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Today this small Tuscan hamlet, born over 1000 years ago, is a place where artists, artisans and visitors share the beauty, the style and the quality of life that make Tuscany one of the most loved destinations by visitors from all over the world.

Drawing inspiration from the ancient crafts and trades that once existed at Il Borro in medieval times, the local shops of shoemakers, goldsmiths and restorers have once again opened their doors and go about their activities with love and expertise.

Restoration of the ancient medieval hamlet was triggered by the wish to bring this place back to life and represents the perfect combination of the past, the present and the future.

It is a place of a thousand souls which pass on traditions and history according to ethical principles calling for employment of local craftsmen and workers and emphasizing respect for the environment and making eco sustainable choices.

IL BORRO TODAY
The agricultural estate Il Borro affords a perfect integration of top level hospitality and exclusive stays offering the most genuine Tuscan experience.

For medium and long term stays the ideal solution is to select one of the available villas ranging from the Dimora Storica (Historic Home) which can accommodate up to 20 people, or the Villa Casetta situated in the Merlot vineyards, or the Villa Mulino which sits surrounded by holly oak and oak trees. For short term stays, the suites located in the medieval hamlet or at “Aie del Borro” offer the utmost wellbeing.

STAYING AT IL BORRO 
Il Borro offers an opportunity to experience wellbeing and relaxation while discovering nature and the local crafts. Guests have a variety of available activities such as the Spa, two tennis courts, the golf course, the football field, a structure for calesthenics, the Wine & Art Gallery and a century-old wine cellar. Topping it off is the cuisine which exalts Tuscan food and wine to be enjoyed in the Osteria del Borro and the Borro Tuscan Bistro.

SUSTAINABILITY
The agricultural soul of Il Borro remains intact and emphasizes respect for this land and its fruits. Here, 1100 hectares are still cultivated according to the principles of organic agriculture thus producing top quality wines, extra virgin olive oil, honey and seasonal vegetables.

These very products can be found in the food and wine selections of the Estate, in keeping with the agri tourism philosophy. Lastly, thanks to the use of renewable energy sources, Il Borro boasts a negative impact of Co2 emissions.

BorroBar, a comfortable but elegant spot, is ideal for a refreshing sundowner. Guests can also imbibe in something cool at the freshwater infinity pool with creative cocktails, mixed with local liqueurs, fruit and herbs from our organic Estate.

ROOMS & SUITES
Il Borro is part of the Relais & Châteaux circuit and offers a range of accommodations and places to stay; this gives guests the opportunity to experience the authentic spirit of Tuscany and an oasis of peace where time seems to stand still.

At Il Borro each guests can choose from many different solutions: the exclusive Dimora Storica, Villa Casetta, 38 elegant and refined suites in the medieval hamlet or 20 new suites “Aie del Borro”. Altogether up to 105 guests can be accommodated.

THE MEDIEVAL VILLAGE
The ancient medieval village of Il Borro is the heart of a luxury hotel whose accommodation is spread throughout the village. 38 exclusive suites, furnished with chic simplicity and equipped with all comforts, are located in a completely authentic setting.

SUITES IN THE VILLAGE
A stone bridge leads to the perfectly restored and preserved ancient medieval village of Il Borro, the heart of a luxury hotel whose accommodation is spread throughout the village. 38 exclusive suites, furnished with chic simplicity and equipped with all comforts, are located in a completely authentic setting.

Each of the discreetly luxurious suites reflects a facet of the village’s charm. Staying in the medieval village allows guests to experience true village community spirit, meeting up in the piazza, strolling the stone paved alleys and shopping in the artisans’ workshops. The Conciergerie located in the centre of the village can help guests with suggestions for making the most of their stay.

DELUXE SUITE
8 Deluxe Suites in the heart of the medieval village evoke the intimate magic of fairytales. The suites are 30 to 50 square meters in size , beautifully renovated with ceilings in original wood or whitened beams that render the rooms airy and hospitable, some with bathtub others with shower, fireplace, terracotta or wooden floors, marble or travertine bathrooms. As in true Tuscan tradition some also have a private garden or terrace.

AIE DEL BORRO
The Aie del Borro are rural buildings typical of the era of the Grand-Duchy of Tuscany, as can be deduced from the features of the main building. Today they offer hospitality in 20 new suites and rooms ideal for families or groups of friends. The Aie del Borro are rural buildings typical of the era of the Grand-Duchy of Tuscany, as can be deduced from the features of the main building.

The Leopoldina, of considerable historic and cultural interest, features all the signature architectural elements of the period – the solid, rectangular shape, the loggiato or arched porch on the ground floor, the ballatoio or enclosed balcony on the first floor and a colombaia or dovecote on the roof.

Leopoldina and the three nearby farmhouses, Il Forte, La Posta and La Fonte, have all been meticulously renovated to preserve their original architectural features and safeguard local history. Today they offer hospitality in 18 new suites and rooms ideal for families or groups of friends.

A long avenue of holm oaks leads guests to the Aie dell Borro, set in in verdant countryside and surrounded by mulberry trees, oaks, lavender bushes, wild roses and geometrical aromatic herb gardens. The pool, the paddock with horses and the Vincafé offer guests the opportunity to relax and unwind.

Vincafé is the ideal place to enjoy the surrounding nature while savouring a light lunch, an aperitif or a cocktail by the pool. The Aie del Borro are located in a strategic position on the estate, meaning guests are close to the heart of the resort and its amenities, which are just a few minutes’ walk away, or can be reached using the internal shuttle service.

VILLA MULINO
The main villa is on two levels, with large living room at the entrance and kitchen on the ground floor, three bedrooms and two bathrooms on the second floor. The outbuilding features large spaces, including a welcoming entrance and 120 square meters on two 2 floors.

Shared spaces, such as kitchen and living room, and 2 double bedrooms with 2 bathrooms. Villa Mulino is nestled in a forest of holm and oak trees, with fencing to ensure safety for children and for our four-legged friends.

A few steps away is the roaring stream and the ancient water collection basin which has been transformed into a large infinity pool with solarium and relaxation area.

VILLA CASETTA
Villa Casetta offers the most authentic Tuscan experience in an absolutely unique country location among Merlot vineyards.
The 350 sq.m. villa has 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms with bathtub and shower, a living room with a fireplace, kitchen, dining room and an infinity pool with pool house.

To add to your enjoyment, breakfast is delivered to the villa. Villa Casetta is equipped with solar panels in line with the eco-sustainable philosophy that is the hallmark of the entire Il Borro Estate.

THE HISTORICAL DIMORA
Located in the heart of the Estate, the Master Villa Il Borro is a large and elegant building dominating the whole medieval village. Built in 1854 by the Hohenlohe Waldenburg family, it was sold at the beginning of the 20th century to Duke Amedeo d’Aosta and finally, in 1993, to Ferruccio Ferragamo.

Major and meticulous restoration has brought it back to its ancient splendor, enhancing the original materials, as well as the architectural style that is so characteristic of 19th-century villas.

With its 10 rooms that include an en-suite bathroom, conference room, dining room, study, heated indoor pool, gym, billiard room and a sauna, the Villa is now an exclusive place for VIPs, large families, events and meetings. All suites boast unique features, such as the four-poster bed and oriental wallpaper in the Royal Suite.

The residential staff are constantly available to guarantee exclusive and highly personalized service.

DINING
In keeping with the philosophy of Il Borro, the Estate’s cuisine under the guidance of Executive Chef Andrea Campani, is directly linked to the idea of respecting the territory, where the quality and freshness of raw materials are the very foundation of menus devoted exclusively to exalting Tuscan excellence.

Special attention is paid to ingredients, always fresh and seasonal, such as vegetables that come from Il Borro’s organic garden or meats, cheeses, and fish which are provided by carefully selected local producers with whom there are continuing relations.

OSTERIA DEL BORRO & THE TUSCAN BISTRO
At Il Borro catering plays a central role and is able to meet the most varied and demanding tastes. The Osteria del Borro, a gourmet restaurant, serves the products and the recipes based on the principles that guide Il Borro Estate. Il Borro Tuscan Bistro, informal and simple, offers the typical dishes of the Tuscan tradition where top priority is that ingredients be in season.

The Osteria del Borro, a gourmet restaurant in the heart of the hamlet, offers a range of dishes meant to exalt the materials provided by small Tuscan producers and a wine list solely dedicated to the region’s vine varieties.

First and foremost fresh and seasonal ingredients that come from the Estate – vegetables from the organic garden, flours of ancient grains with a low gluten content, also used to make pasta, appetizing spelt biscuits, tomato purée – products that come from small local artisans with whom the Chef has established strong ties through the years thus making local culinary art a real excellence.

Osteria del Borro offers its guests a unique and unforgettable gastronomic experience in its exclusive space, which is ideal for those who want more privacy and confidentiality. A cozy and refined space with a private kitchen and a dedicated chef: highly personalized experiences featuring a cooking show.

The gastronomic selection is completed by the Estate’s Tuscan Bistro. Here you can discover the great classic and traditional dishes: pasta and soups such as Ribollita or Pappa al Pomodoro, typical Tuscan cold cuts and cheeses, appetizers with rabbit, chicken, guinea fowl, Valdarno tarese, raw meats or fish, grilled or oven-cooked meats.

THE WINES
The uniqueness of wine comes from the absolute harmonization between the land and man, between nature and its being. Each man, like the land, has a precise vocation which leads him to his achievements. This is the start of a harmonious journey; a journey of fatigue, commitment and love, a journey that unfolds along the furrows of the rows of vines.

The are moments of waiting and expectation when ability and passion transform the simple fruit into the ideal drop, the moment in which man goes beyond himself and becomes the winemaker.

His hands bear the signs of working the land and his commitment to each phase of production, from cultivation to winemaking, inspired by a single goal: to fill each bottle with the best that this terroir has to offer.

WINE EXPERIENCES
Il Borro opens its wine cellar for tours especially organized to offer an oenological and cultural journey into the heart of winemaking. The tour is much more than just visiting the vineyards, looking at the beautiful view and tasting the excellent wine. Thanks to an expert guide it becomes an all-encompassing total immersion: discovery of vineyards, cellar, wine, art and architecture.

VISITING THE CELLAR
Il Borro opens its wine cellar for tours especially organized to offer an oenological and cultural journey into the heart of winemaking. The tour is much more than just visiting the vineyards, looking at the beautiful view and tasting the excellent wine. Thanks to an expert guide it becomes an all-encompassing total immersion: discovery of vineyards, cellar, wine, art and architecture.

THE ORGANIC FARM
Sustainability, use of renewable energy sources and the agricultural and wine production based on respect for the environment are only a few of the themes that are at the heart of Il Borro. Sustainability begins in 2012 when Il Borro starts the conversion from conventional to organic agriculture. A change in direction based the respect for nature and cultivation cycles.

ORTO DEL BORRO
Il Borro is an organic and sustainable estate. Our Organic Garden respects the season’s cycles, the natural balances and safeguards the local seed and cultivation traditions that produce genuine and varied crops. There are 30 beehives on the estate which serve not only to produce organic honey but also to sustain the flora’s biodiversity,

Seen from above, this part of the Valdarno valley appears like a flat valley floor; nonetheless, a closer look reveals a landscape that is much more dramatic with sharp hills, narrow river beds, mixed woods and undulating fields.

Each individual wine is the result of a careful study of the Estate’s terrain where different vine varieties have been planted in order to achieve the best expression of our terroir.

Being involved with organic activity entails a special way of living as well as observing and respecting the land. The end goal is to help the land to regenerate while maintaining fertility and establishing an ideal balance between nature and human impact.

The entire estate is based on the exclusive use of natural fertilizers and organic pesticides for the cultivation of the vineyards. The estate completed its conversion to the organic method in 2015.

ORGANIC AGRICULTURE
As of 2012, all chemical products were totally eliminated and vineyards started to be managed according to the principles of organic agriculture, with the inclusion of some biodynamic procedures aimed at increasing product sustainability.

The goal of our sustainable organic philosophy is to create a closed company productive cycle and to favor biodiversity through the creation of complex ecosystems.

THE VIESCA ESTATE
The Viesca Estate, located only 30 minutes from Il Borro and from Florence, is specialized in tailor-made stays in villa, offering guests a range of activities and services to make them feel at home.

There several unique and special accommodations; the XVI century manor house as well as another 7 beautiful villas, all with private pools. For more intimate and shorter stays the suites are ideal. There are 17 at the heart of the Estate.

VIESCA VILLAS
Viesca’s villas – verdant oases ina pristine natural setting – are ideal for families and groups of friends wanting to spend some time together and relax in the wonders of the Tuscan countryside.

All the villas are expressions of authentic Tuscan elegance in which antiques co-exist with furniture made by local artisans and fine, warm coloured textiles, all blending ideally into the colours of the natural setting. What makes a villa stay unique is the many exclusive and tailormade services on offer.

VIESCA SUITES
Borgo Pian di Rinaldi, in the heart of the Viesca estate, with its 14 suites, and Family Cottage Due Torri with three suites, are ideal for more intimate and shorter stays. All newly renovated and featuring warm, stylish spaces, its suites – divided up into Superior,

Deluxe and Prestige rooms – are large and light-filled, ranging from 25 to 70 square metres in size in natural colours echoing Tuscany’s typical country hues. The fine materials used are wood, terracotta and travertine which contribute to creating an atmosphere combing nature with style.

IL BORRO TUSCAN BISTRO – VIESCA
Il Borro Tuscan Bistro di Viesca, a café-bistrot offering top quality cuisine in a cosy, stylish setting is there to accompany every moment of your stay. The menu, managed by Executive Chef of Il Borro’s restaurants Andrea Campani, pays homage to his native land, Tuscany.

Traditional dishes are expertly reworked in contemporary style, conserving and getting the best out of genuine products. Open all day, it is an informal place to buy the area’s characteristic products, enjoy an excellent breakfast of local, organic products, a Tuscan-style light lunch, a sunset drink and dinner with top quality wines.

SPA & WELLNESS
Viesca Estate is proud to offer a natural and holistic approach to mindfully enhance your Tuscan experience, in partnership with Debra Kochanczyk our Yoga and Wellness provider.

Yoga classes, breathing exercises and guided meditations surrounded by the green and tranquil Tuscan countryside. In addition, there is the possibility to book en-suite massages, a series of personalised wellness treatments responding to guests’ needs by the expert staff of Spa La Corte de Il Borro.

EVENTS
Viesca – Il Borro Toscana is also an ideal location for weddings and can host up to 230 guests. Its outdoor spaces offer a great many layout options: a park with historic trees, beautiful lawns alongside a large swimming pool, a spacious panoramic terrace, a courtyard with a stylish loggia and even a romantic private chapel.

Indoors there are two large halls linked to the manor house, specially restored to act as a backdrop to ceremonies and events. It is also ideal for corporate meetings and conferences.

I BORRIGIANI FARMHOUSES 
Il Borro also offers agritourism solutions, which are designed for medium and longterm stays – 1.5 km away from the main facility and services. There is no shuttle service, therefore, having a car is preferable.

Thanks to accurate restoration aimed at rediscovering and preserving the classic Tuscan style, the three farmhouses of I Borrigiani represent a perfect combination of nature and exclusivity. Renting a farmhouse will make you and your entire family feel you are in your Tuscan home-away-from-home!

POGGIO PIANO
Surrounded by a splendid garden with many beautifully-kept lawns and gazebos, Poggio Piano is a picturesque rustic farmhouse divided into four spacious apartments where every detail is taken care of to make your stay the best. Each apartment has 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen and living room. The guests of Poggio Piano farmhouse can also use the private swimming pool.

CAPANNA
Thanks to its original shape, which is like a hut, Capanna offers an intimate atmosphere, with ultra-modern comforts and cozy spaces. This is probably one of I Borrigiani’s most special farmhouses, unique in its kind and a very relaxing place.

110 square meters divided into 2 bedrooms, one double and one single, and two nautical-style bunk beds. Outside are vast green spaces and a swimming pool. Capanna is next to Poggio Piano farmhouse

CASA AL PIANO
Casa al Piano, a large and charming farmhouse in the traditional Tuscan style is divided into four spacious apartments. Each one has 2 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen and living room. There is a lush garden and a comfortable barbecue area near the private swimming pool for guests. Casa al Piano also features an independent entrance, directly connected to the public road.

A TASTE OF TUSCANY
Dining with us is the perfect way to apprecoate the true magic behind Tuscan cuisine. Our menus at Osteria del Borro and Il Borro Tuscan Bistro, respect and reintepret tradional Tuscan gastronomy. Executive Chef Andrea Campani’s dishes feature daring modern twists and unique ingredient combination.

ACTIVITIES
Il Borro offers a series of unique experiences designed to give a taste of authentic Tuscany. From wine tours to cooking classes, from the artisans’ workshops to horseback riding, biking and a whole variety of excursions in and about the coutryside.

SPA LA CORTE
La Corte Spa perfectly reflects the philosophy of well being at the Estate and creates a perfect link between the natural uncontaminated landscape and a relaxing atmosphere to bring harmony and equilibrium to body and mind.

A true oasis of peace, a place keep in shape with fitness exercises or yoga and to enjoy precious moments for one’s health and beauty. The exclusive and intimate Suite Spa offers hydromassages, sauna and a relaxation area where one can regenerate with a mix of holistic products and personalized treatments.

COOKING CLASSES
The Borro attracts lovers of Tuscan cuisine, best expressed at the Osteria del Borro and by our executive chef Andrea Campani. Cooking shows and courses exalt the culture of Tuscan cuisine by selecting the best seasonal ingredients for the area’s most sought-after recipes.

TASTING
Many tasting options for wine lovers, to discover the different facets of the making of the Estate’s wines. Each option will include the tasting of a selection of Il Borro’s organic products and of Il Borro’s organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

WINE CELLAR & ART GALLERY TOUR
Two alternative paths that highlight different aspects characterizing the organic wines of our Estate. An artistic journey through iconography or a tour in the cellars to learn the many secrets of winemaking.

VINEYARDS TOUR
A full Il Borro immersion comprehends the possibility to choose the many expereinces offered by the Estate and pattern them following your preferences.

WINE TOUR BOX
A full immersion inside Il Borro Cellar, with a selection and combination of different activities. After a visit to the “Vino e Arte” Gallery, you will have a choice of tastings with our cellar’s main wines. Each of your choices will include a delicious board of organic products and a tasting of Il Borro’s organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

HORSE RIDING
Those activities are offered to let experience nature as if you were part of it. Horses share with us their instinct and sensitivity. Those who go on horseback learn to look at the world in a different way, to listen more carefully and to feel emotions through movements, rhythm, breath and smells.

TREKKING & BIKING
Il Borro is an organic estate which extends for over 1100 hectares; it offers many trails for pleasant walks where to discover the beauty of Tuscan nature. For the lovers of trekking and hiking, guided tours are available on routes in the Pratomagno valley. Furthermore, rent a mountain bike or an electric assisted bike, ideal to explore the countryside which offers many trails, woodlands, mild hills and extensive flat lands.

YOGA
Relaxation and wellbeing in Il Borro’s unspoilt natural surroundings. Enjoy yoga sessions in a unique Tuscan setting, an oasis of peace hidden between Florence and Cortona. Eliminate stress, recharge and restore balance to your body and mind with guided sessions.

TENNIS
Two tennis courts immersed in the green countryside, amid olive groves and vineyards, are available for guests to challenge each other or refine their technique with the help of our professional instructors.

GOLF
A sport that’s suitable for all ages and is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The golf course has 3 holes and is ideal for all those who want to stay in shape and for those who want to approach this sport for the first time. Individual or group lessons are available.

WORKSHOPS
Workshops last about 2 hours, depending on the type chosen. Children can also take part in craft workshops organized especially for them.

Rooms: 38

Price: from 342 EUR per night

Source: www.ilborro.it