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Exploring Tuscany in summer – Enjoy your Tuscan summer

terrace in tuscany at conti di san bonifacio wine resort

EXPLORING TUSCANY IN SUMMER

Enjoy your Tuscan summer

As summer casts its golden glow upon the picturesque countryside, there’s no better time to embark on a journey through Tuscany’s hidden gem – Maremma, where the essence of Italian hospitality intertwines with the allure of breathtaking landscapes and world-renowned wines.

Whether you’re seeking adventure along the sun-kissed shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea or a tranquil escape amidst our vineyard-clad hillsides, you’ll get a memorable retreat.

Here are some ways to embrace summer in this breathtaking region:

Indulging in authentic gelato

Whether you opt for classic flavors like fragrant pistachio or tangy lemon, or venture into more adventurous territory with artisanal creations, each spoonful is a taste of Italian craftsmanship and tradition.

Embarking on island-hopping adventures in the Tyrrhenian Sea

Explore Isola d’Elba and the charming Isola del Giglio, known for their beautiful beaches and untouched natural beauty. Relax, soak up the sun and enjoy a romantic sunset stroll surrounded by picturesque coastal views. Experience a private sail to the Tuscan isola  d’Elba, exploring crystal-clear waters and savoring lunch aboard.

Visiting Mount Argentario

Located in the province of Grosseto, particularly Porto Ercole, a glamourous port town, dotted with colorful fishing boats and luxury yachts. Stroll along its winding streets lined with chic boutiques and inviting cafes, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and timeless beauty of this coastal gem.

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Enjoying a serene horseback ride

Along Maremma’s picturesque beaches or through its tranquil forests. Let our experienced guides lead you on a journey through the region’s stunning landscapes, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while enjoying the peaceful rhythm of your horse’s stride, an experience that promises relaxation, adventure, and a deeper appreciation for the splendor of Maremma.

Capturing sunrise and sunset in Maremma

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Tuscan landscapes while learning or perfecting your photography skills with our exclusive sunrise or sunset photography workshop. Capture the enchanting hues of dawn or dusk amidst Maremma’s breathtaking vistas and frame them in your lens. It’s a unique opportunity to blend learning with leisure and create stunning visual memories of your summer escape.

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Learning about wine through wine tasting

Sip like a sommelier - group tasting workshop

A quintessential Tuscan activity regardless of the season. At Conti Di San Bonifacio a sommelier will guide you as you delve into the rich heritage of Italian winemaking and learn about the nuances of Sangiovese, Pinot Grigio and Prosecco. It’s a must-do activity that will leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s wine culture.

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Exploring Tuscany in Spring

Exploring Tuscany in Spring

9 Things to do in Maremma this Spring

As winter bids farewell and the landscape awakens with vibrant hues, Tuscany transforms into a captivating haven during the spring season. From charming hilltop towns to verdant vineyards, there’s an array of activities that promise an unforgettable experience. Here’s a guide to some of the enchanting things to do in Maremma during spring:

Rolling hills and wine

Here are a few highlights of what awaits you in Tuscany's paradise:

1. Explore the Coastal Towns:

    • Visit charming seaside towns like Castiglione della Pescaia and Porto Santo Stefano. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the beaches, explore historic harbors, and savor fresh seafood at local restaurants.

2. Hiking in Natural Reserves:

    • Maremma is known for its diverse landscapes, including natural parks and reserves. Explore Parco Naturale della Maremma (Uccellina National Park) or Riserva Naturale Diaccia Botrona for scenic hikes, bird watching, and encounters with the region’s unique flora and fauna.
GUIDED GENTLE YOGA HIKE AND ANCIENT OLIVE GROVE MEDITATION

3. Hot Springs in Saturnia:

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cascate del mulino
Relax by the pool
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    • Indulge in relaxation at the natural hot springs of Saturnia. The warm, sulfurous waters are not only therapeutic but offer a unique experience surrounded by the beautiful Tuscan countryside. 
    • The thermal waters at Saturnia are an enchanting and enticing stop while exploring Tuscany and the Maremma. Take advantage of the free entrance to the hot water springs called “Cascate di Mulino“, located less than 6 km outside of the town of Saturnia. 

4. Wine Tasting in Massa Marittima:

    • Maremma is part of the renowned Tuscan wine region. Explore the vineyards and wineries, especially in the Massa Marittima area, known for its Sangiovese wines. The star wine of this area is Monteregio di Massa Marittima. At Conti di San Bonifacio, we set the benchmark, and we are a point of reference amongst producers. We achieved this by making an iconic Monteregio DOC Riserva which is locally and globally acclaimed. All our grapes are grown in the Estate. Enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and pairings with local delicacies.
tasting wine at conti di san bonifacio in tuscany
Italian wine tasting in Tuscan luxury resort
wine tasting at conti di san bonifacio

5. Visit Pitigliano, Sorano, and Sovana:

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    • Discover the charming hilltop towns of Pitigliano, Sorano, and Sovana. These historic villages boast ancient architecture, Etruscan ruins, and a rich cultural heritage. Wander through cobblestone streets and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

6. Cycling Through the Countryside:

  • Take advantage of the pleasant spring weather by exploring Maremma’s countryside on a bicycle. Many areas offer bike rentals, and you can pedal through vineyards, olive groves, and scenic paths.
Views of Tuscany from two wheels – guided bike tours

7. Culinary Delights:

8. Historical Sites in Grosseto:

    • Explore the historic town of Grosseto. Visit the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, stroll through the medieval walls, and discover the archaeological museum. Grosseto provides a blend of history and modernity.

9. Cooking Classes:

    • Take part in cooking classes with our chefs, that focus on Tuscan cuisine. Learn to prepare classic dishes using fresh, local ingredients, and then savor your creations paired with exceptional wines.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 
dine at conti di san bonifacio
Conti Di San Bonifacio Dine

Remember to embrace the slower pace of life, enjoy the natural beauty, and savor the authentic experiences that Maremma has to offer during the enchanting spring season.

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5 Reasons why you should visit Tuscany during Spring

Garden and exteriors Conti di San Bonifacio

5 Reasons why you should visit Tuscany during Spring

What Makes Tuscany Such a Special Place in the Springtime?

Tuscany is a magical place in the springtime. The rolling hills, charming villages, and picturesque views make it one of the most sought-after travel destinations in Italy. From its stunning Maremma Hills to its many tourists’ hot spots, there is something for everyone to enjoy during their visit to Tuscany. So, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, Tuscany has something for you. With its beautiful scenery and good food and wine, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this region every year during the springtime season. Explore all the attractions that make Tuscany a special place in the springtime! Start planning your trip to this stunning region.

olive tree and bar Conti di San Bonifacio
vineyards Conti di San Bonifacio

Reason 1 - Tuscan nature at its best: The breathtaking Views from the hills,
Tuscan golden beaches, thermal springs, and natural parks

The rolling hills of Tuscany in the springtime are a sight to behold. With its lush vineyards, towering cypress trees, and colorful wildflowers, the Tuscan countryside is a paradise for nature lovers. From the Maremma Hills to the Chianti region, there are breathtaking views and landscapes to explore.

Golden beaches – Though Tuscany is most known for its famous hills, this region has much more to offer, including its golden beaches. If you have never tried the experience of going to the beach in spring, then you should try it in Tuscany. Sunny spring days with a pleasant breeze and the smell of the sea scent are simply the best.

Cascate di Saturnia – However, suppose the days of your stay are still slightly too cold for the sea. In that case, head to the stunning Cascate di Saturnia: a magical place just waiting to be discovered, famous for its thermal waters, limestone pools, and landscape. The waterfalls originate from a natural source of sulfurous water at a temperature of 37.5°C.

Natural Park Maremmana – For those who prefer long walks, a visit to the Natural Park Maremmana is a must. You can also cross some parts of the Park by bike, horse, carriage, or canoe.

The Tarot Garden – Lastly, for nature and art lovers, we recommend the Tarot Garden, which will be open from April 1st.

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Reason 2 - Enjoy Delicious Food and Wine in Small Villages Throughout Tuscany and Discover the Italian 'sagre'

Tuscan food and wine are some of Italy’s best-loved offerings. From hearty pasta dishes to succulent meats cooked over open flames, there’s something for every palate in Tuscany. And don’t forget about the wines! With a variety of reds and whites from across the region, you can enjoy a glass or two while exploring the countryside restaurants and cafes.

The Italian Sagra – For a real dive into the local Tuscan life in terms of food, you need to experience the traditional local festivals that take place at this time of the year in Tuscany: the so-called ‘sagre’. The sagra is usually dedicated to a Saint Patron or local food or dish. In the past, it was mainly a religious event to celebrate the harvest.

barbeque and fire - Tuscan food
bancarella sagra Conti di San Bonifacio

What is a sagra – Each sagra is more or less extensive, but it must include a place to eat at communal tables and a space where the organizers prepare the food. Most also provide a ballroom dance floor, usually packed with older couples and kids. Some have an amusement park (so-called ‘giostre’) for the younger generations. It is challenging to generalize, though: each sagra has its peculiarity, which is why it is always a surprise. If you are looking for a local experience, then attending a sagra is undoubtedly one of them.

Tip – We highly recommend going with an Italian speaker or keeping your automatic translator with you.

Reason 3 - Have a Unique Experience at Some of the Most Beautiful Art Towns in Europe

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Torre di Pisa - Pisa Tower
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Firenze Toscana tourist highlights
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Europe is home to some of the world’s most beautiful cities. From the cobbled streets of Siena and Florence in Italy to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, there are endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Siena is known for its stunning medieval architecture and vibrant culture. Its main attractions include Piazza del Campo, the city’s main square, and Duomo di Siena, a stunning cathedral. It’s also home to some of the best restaurants in Italy!

Florence is among Italy’s most charming cities. Awarded fourth best city in the world in 2022 by Travel and Leisure, Florence is home to some of the greatest works of art ever created, including Brunelleschi’s dome on top of Florence Cathedral and Michelangelo’s David sculpture. With its rich history and incredible beauty, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience. Check out what are the best things to do in Florence.

Pisa is also a must-see destination if you’re in the area. The Leaning Tower of Pisa and its Square of Miracles are two of the most iconic sites in Italy. With only half a day to visit, you can have a unique experience.
If you’ll go for a longer journey through Tuscany, explore the vineyards of Antinori, Ribolla, and Montemassi. Then, spend a day in one of the many small medieval towns that dot this beautiful region.

And if you still have time left, check out other beautiful places to visit in Tuscany!

Reason 4 - Enjoy The Perfect Weather

Springtime is the best time of year to enjoy the beauty and charm of this region. The weather is delightful, with warm days and cool nights. The colors of nature are unique as nature wakes up from its winter slumber, with trees budding and flowers blooming. Lovely smells will surround you as you take in the beauty of Tuscany during its flowering season. Whether you want to explore the countryside or take a leisurely stroll through one of the many quaint villages, springtime in Tuscany has something for everyone.

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Reason 5 - Far from the Crowd

Have you ever wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find a place to relax and reconnect with nature? Tuscany is the perfect destination for a revitalizing holiday. With reduced crowds, it’s the best way to unplug, energize, and slow down. Enjoy an escape from it all as you explore the rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages of this beautiful region. Relax in peaceful settings surrounded by breathtaking views while indulging in delicious local cuisine. Experience a slower pace of life that will leave you feeling refreshed and in connection with nature. If you are a sport lover check out the suggestions by Wanderlust about cycling and walking trips in Tuscany!

Conti di San Bonifacio garden outside
olive tree Conti di San Bonifacio
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Retreat to Tuscan wine country this harvest season

terrace in tuscany at conti di san bonifacio wine resort

RETREAT TO TUSCAN WINE COUNTRY THIS HARVEST SEASON

Autumn escape in Tuscany

Fall into the new season with a wine country escape to Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort. Discover what makes this time of year so special in Tuscany, from the Cabernet coloured vines to the harvest parties and undeniable buzz in the vineyards.

Whether you’re looking for unique wine-inspired experiences, seek rejuvenation and restoration, or crave fresh seasonal flavours, the Estate has you covered. Enjoy the pleasure of Tuscany living and take an extra day to enjoy the magic of harvest season (both grapes and olives) with our new offer. Book four nights at Conti di San Bonifacio during November or December and enjoy your fourth night on us.

Unique seasonal experience

Explore the undiscovered side of wine country this season. From exclusive access to limited production wines to behind-the-scenes tours. This is the moment to live the Tuscan wine dream.

Live admist the vineyards

Your suite will welcome you with spectacular views, natural woods, terracotta and linens. This is a chance for you to retreat, relax and take a moment in our iconic working wine estate.

Farm to table restaurant and organic vegetable garden

The culinary program at Conti di San Bonifacio focuses on quality ingredients with simple and elegant preparation. A responsibly-sourced and seasonally-driven menu creates an unparalleled dining experience, where farm-driven, local ingredients represent our deep commitment and passion for creating not only special meals, but also a more sustainable future.

Conti Di San Bonifacio Dine
Conti Di San Bonifacio Dine
Conti Di San Bonifacio Dine
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Enjoy the fourth night on us

Linger just a little longer this harvest season. From one of a kind food and wine experiences and restorative wellness offerings, to suites designed with the comforts of home, a wine country reset is the perfect way to welcome Italy’s most beautiful time of year in its most sought after region. Book four nights during the months of November or December and receive your fourth night on us.

Contact us directly, call +39 0566 80006 or book online.

IMPORTANT: If you book online, use the code AUTUMN22 in the ‘notes field’ in the booking form.

cozy living room in Tuscan wine resort
Private terrace Italian luxury wine resort
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What’s it like to stay in a Wine Resort in Tuscany?

Italian wine Resort in Tuscany

WHAT'S IT LIKE TO STAY IN A WINE RESORT IN TUSCANY?

Escape the everyday in Tuscany’s best boutique Winery this Spring. 

Evocative views and intense emotions are what you will find spending a Spring Break inTuscany. Flowers and gardens, soft green hills and valleys to catch in your photograph simply strolling the paths of the Tuscan countryside is one of the best ways to enjoy the incredible scents and colours of the of the season. 

Let go of everyday worries and distractions and reconnect with loved ones and with yourself. You will immerse yourselves in landscapes which haven’t changed for hundreds of years. 

Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort, located in the heart of the Maremma, will give you a peaceful place to explore mindfulness and just be present. Breathe the fresh country air, listen to the sweet song of birds in the woods and admire the perfect balance between beautiful views of the vineyards and world-class sunsets.

Stay with us at CDSB for a quest escape with all the comfort and service that a private luxury hotel can offer. For those who need a relaxing treatment to rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit, or for those who just want to indulge in unforgettable Italian classics with our private chefs, our team is on hand to meet your needs. Get away from the crowds and experience a journey reflecting on what’s important, slowing down, and getting back to nature. 

The CDSB Wine Resort has seven exclusive suites built by local artisans who have become our friends over the years. This is Tuscany pared back revealing it’s wood, stone and terracotta.

Every corner of the estate and grounds will wrap you in a sense of peace – just breath!

The spacious rooms, with terracotta floors strewn with white cowhides and chestnut beams, are lovingly furnished with natural linens. 

It’s heaven here. The estate looks out from a hill surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort is one of a kind. The terraces with panoramic views offer unforgettable sunsets that makes the experience simply extraordinary. Book one of our seven suites so you can get away, relax and enjoy the privacy of our gated estate. 

Browse our packages and select one which will work perfectly for you. Our exceptional local knowledge, decades of customer experience and a desire to make our guests happy is what sets this privately curated Wine Estate apart from the rest. Choose from our activities and experiences to make your stay in Tuscany completely unique for you.

Wine and Olive Oil tasting, Horseback Riding in the forest or to the beach, Yoga Classes, Wine Tours, and Picnics on the Tuscan Hills. Enjoy carriage rides in the Maremma Regional Park and Garden to Plate cooking classes with our Chefs our Artisan Food and Wine pairing dinner. Don’t miss our Complete Wine Experience which takes place daily at the estate at 16.00! See our reviews here – it’s something which shouldn’t be missed. 

Take a few days of this Spring in the dreamy rolling landscape of Tuscany and stay in the exclusive Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort. 

This is about discovering the beauty that lies in the simplicity. it’s about giving back to ourselves just a few days, deep in nature experiencing a part of Italy which cannot be missed. Drink wine were it’s made – eat the food Italians love. This is Tuscany at its best.

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Exclusive and luxury villa rental in Tuscany

Tuscany Villa Rental

EXCLUSIVE AND LUXURY VILLA RENTAL IN TUSCANY

EXCLUSIVE AND LUXURY VILLA RENTAL IN TUSCANY

In this period of history, the continuous restrictions on travel do not allow us to choose the next destinations to visit in complete serenity. However, Tuscany is a destination that offers to travel safely and to spend a luxury holiday between well-being and unique experiences.

Sublime art, poignant countryside, amazing wine and mouth-watering cuisine: Tuscany is wonderful all year round and offers many opportunities for awareness and relaxation. The countryside offers an ideal environment to let go of everyday worries and distractions and reconnect with loved ones and with yourself.

Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort, located in the earth of Maremma, offers a peaceful environment to explore mindfulness techniques. Breathe the fresh country air, listen to the sweet song of birds in the woods and admire the ideal balance between beautiful views of the vineyards and wonderful sunsets.

CDSB offers the ideal solution for a quiet holiday with all the comforts and services of a private luxury hotel. For those who need a relaxing treatment to rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit or for those who wish to indulge in unforgettable culinary meals with the private chef, our team is on hand to meet your needs. Avoid the crowds and experience a journey reflecting on what’s important, slowing down and getting back to nature.

The Wine Resort has seven exclusive suites built by carefully selected local artisans to fully represent the traditional Tuscan style. These, give the idea of comfort, relaxation and peace, that you can breathe in every corner. 

The spacious rooms, with terracotta floors, white cow-hides lying on the ground and chestnut beams, are finely furnished with natural fabrics.

Perched on a hill surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort is one of a kind. The terraces with panoramic views offer unforgettable sunsets that make the experience simply extraordinary. Especially suitable for a relaxing holiday where privacy reigns.

We can provide a package that can offer you a worry-free vacation. Our exceptional local knowledge, decades of customer experience and a desire to satisfy every request. Our services include various activities and experiences. Wine and oil tastings, horseback riding in the forest and yoga classes. Enjoy carriage rides in the Maremma Park and cooking class with our Chef.

Furthermore, we guarantee you a totally Covid Free stay, thanks to a complete sanitation of the villa before your arrival. Especially, due to the continuous monitoring of employees through frequent tests.

Spend your next vacation in the fabulous rolling landscape of Tuscany, staying in the exclusive Conti di San Bonifacio Resort.

Fill out the form with all your requests. We will be delighted to prepare a personalized quote for your needs.

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The Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

Renew your vows

THE VALENTINE'S DAY GIFT GUIDE

Unique Gift Ideas to Surprise Your Special Someone.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Tuscany with something that makes you feel appreciated and cherished! Send your bestie a cheerful gourmet surprise from Tuscany, indulge in a special treat with a special someone on the hills of Maremma, or plan a trip with friends or on your own. Don’t forget to check out our ultimate wish list for the season of love – for you, for them, and of course for us!

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Immersive Tuscan days

IMMERSIVE TUSCAN DAYS

Autumn & winter edition

TUSCANY IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST LOVED DESTINATIONS, BUT WHAT IF YOU HAVE JUST A FEW DAYS TO SPEND HERE?

HOW CAN YOU OPTIMIZE YOUR TIME WHILE STAYING AT CONTI DI SAN BONIFACIO WINE RESORT?

WE’VE GOT SOME SUGGESTIONS TO HELP YOU MAKE UP YOUR MIND.

HERE 5 SUGGESTIONS FOR YOU

1. ONE

For enthusiasts of art and culture, the Tuscan cities and villages offer some of the world’s most beautiful and well-known attractions.

Stay at our Wine Resort in Maremma to explore the best areas in the Tuscan countryside.

Montemassi and Massa Marittima are located not far from each other and are a true wonder, two medieval jewels rich in history, art and monuments. In particular, Massa Marittima is the birthplace of Monteregio DOC wines.

Visiting these hamlets, not far from Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort, will allow you to have half a day at your disposal to spend on another experience. In the autumn season, a horseback ride in the forest or on the beach of Cala Violina will immerse you in the beauty of the autumn-colored forest.

Alternatively, for wine lovers, you can spend a couple of hours learning the secrets of Winemaking with our Complete Wine Tasting. During a visit to the cellar, our winemaker will let you taste the different varieties of wine and will explain our production and aging methods throughout the experience.

2. TWO

If you are looking for a Hotel Spa experience in Tuscany, there is no better way than to spend a day at the spa in Maremma during the colder seasons.

The Terme di Saturnia are the best-known and most famous thermal springs and one of the most enchanting destinations in the Maremma. Its’ thermal waterfalls, “Cascate del Mulino“, are perhaps the most famous natural thermal springs in Tuscany, consisting of so many natural pools of warm thermal water and relaxing waterfalls. They are open to the public and completely accessible throughout the year.

When you return to us, we recommend that you end your day with a cooking class organized by one of our chefs at Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort, who will guide you in preparing typical Tuscan dishes that you can then enjoy as your dinner.

3. THREE

Tuscany is the ideal destination to enrich your holiday with unique experiences. We suggest you head to Siena during the day while staying at our Retreat. It takes about 40 minutes to go there – one of the most loved and visited cities in Tuscany, a place rich in history and art, and strong traditions. The famous Palio di Siena is known the world over.

If you are visiting Siena for the first time, you must visit, the city’s heart, the wonderful Piazza del Campo, one of the symbolic places of the city. In the area between Piazza del Campo and the Cathedral, you will find the city’s main attractions, including the precious Duomo.

Once back at CDSB, book an in-room or spa relaxing treatment to end a perfect day in Tuscany.

4. FOUR

Tuscany is a region full of landscapes of outstanding beauty, such as the Maremma Natural Park, a protected area rich in ecosystems where biodiversity and conservation are at the heart of our wild countryside. You can discover this miraculous place by bike, on foot, during carriage rides, on a night excursion, or on a guided bird-watching tour.

Upon your return to CDSB, enjoy our six-course food and wine pairing dinner. Our executive chef and sommelier have personally selected each of the seductive pairings. During your dinner, you will have the opportunity to talk with them about their flavors and aromas, the different winemaking philosophies, and the unique stories behind the artisans who produce these local ingredients.

5. FIVE

Autumn brings with it delicacies with the original flavors of Tuscany. Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort designed local activities perfect for the Tuscan autumn. The “Truffle Hunter” is a day spent with an expert “hunter” of truffles and his dogs, in the Tuscan woods.

Prepare yourself for an intensively emotional day. Finish off this once in a lifetime adventure with our perfect “Truffle Lunch” where you can taste in Tuscany the fruits of your spoils.

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Our wellness philosophy

Our wellness philosophy

OUR WELLNESS PHILOSOPHY

How wine & wellness is good for the body & soul – Q&A with Sarah di San Bonifacio

HOW WINE AND WELLNESS IS GOOD
FOR THE BODY AND SOUL

Q&A WITH SARAH DI SAN BONIFACIO – FOUNDER AND CEO OF
CONTI DI SAN BONIFACIO WINE RESORT

To get under the skin of the evolving philosophy at the resort, we asked Sarah about the project she started now almost twenty years ago. As an English woman living in Italy for a decade, after twenty years of working in the City of London, we felt she might know something about switching gears and making better and more mindful choices!

Q. WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND CREATING THIS RETREAT IN TUSCANY?

The project was really born out of an urgent need to rebalance my life when I was working at Goldman Sachs in the late 90’s. I had decided to convert some of the blood, sweat and tears into an escape. I fell in love with this estate in Tuscany and ever since I have come here to unplug from the crazy back in London!

From the beginning the place was mesmeric and it only ever took 24 hours to completely let go. It was like a spiritual detox being out here and made the subsequent years of work possible. Sharing it with others and creating a destination where our guests can restore harmony and balance to their often busy and stressful schedules became my mission. It took another ten years to finally have the courage to leave my job but aligning my passion and purpose has been the right journey for me.

Q. WHAT DOES WELLNESS MEAN TO YOU HERE IN TUSCANY?

I believe the concept of ethical travel and hospitality has been around for a while. We see more and more of our guests mindfully choosing their vacations. It needs to mean more than just “taking a break.” Our guests tend to have their own wellness objectives around clean eating, eco travel and reconnecting at an emotional level through an authentic and often transformative experience.

Guests arrive here frazzled and leave feeling that both body and mind have been nourished. Our location in Tuscany meets their visceral needs. The Wine Hotel sits within a couple of hundred acres of unspoilt organic vineyards, olive groves and forest. We have organic fine wines that we make on the estate and the immersive wine, food and nature experiences are right at their fingertips. I think there has been a big shift from traditional destinations to unspoilt, virgin locations which are off the grid. A stay with us is often a part of a bigger personal wellness journey.

Q. WHAT WOULD A TYPICAL STAY LOOK LIKE FOR A CITY DWELLING GUEST?

The need to unplug and tap into local life in a completely natural environment has become a big lifestyle goal. Escaping to a private wine estate where they can walk in vineyards and taste wine from the barrels or pick organic vegetables from our garden then cook and eat with them are just a couple of way we help fulfill our guests dreams.

Don’t we all want to make better choices for ourselves and the planet? Our holidays are no exception so a big part of our mission is to help visitors do just that. We tend to think of their time with us as our opportunity to curate a menu of experiences to meet their wellness goals. A couple who arrive from a busy, urban life tend to visit us with an immersive nature experience in mind. From the moment they check in, the unwind begins.

The service has to be attentive and meticulous without being overwhelming-always driven from the heart. You will feel as if you’re the special guest being cared for in the house of a friend. Of course the architecture and the interior design matters – the canvas has to be right and reflect a philosophy of restorative calm and warmth. I’ve tried to create light and airy spaces which connect you to the outdoors – winter or summer.

Q. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE ORGANIC IN THE HOSPITALITY BUSINESS?

We were really determined that any property and land we took on would be organic. This estate is certified organic which means that chemicals have never been used here, not in the vineyards, the olive groves or the fields.

At the core of our mission is to be ethical and sustainable both in the way we care for our guests and also the wine, foods and oils we produce. The restaurant at the hotel is a holistic experience in and of itself. Sitting under the trees watching the sunset eating locally sourced meat and fish and vegetables from the organic garden on site.

To compliment the plate we produce three award-winning Super Tuscan wines from the vineyard stretching out beneath you. We’ve know for a long time that Italian food is already avant garde when it comes to excellence but here in Tuscany, farm to plate takes you to the next level. Its pure medicine, nourishing body and soul.

Q. SO WHAT’S THE BIG MESSAGE?

The passion and driving force behind the Wine and Wellness Retreat is to create a sanctuary of personalised well-being. I want to empower guests and make it easy for them to spend a few days with us restoring the harmony we so often are lacking back at home. I think this is where we all feel at our most fulfilled. We’re all trying to prioritise self care and save our sanity at the same time so undisturbed natural environments with transformative experiences you can enjoy with others or alone for some solo reflection are an obvious choice.

 

Some might choose to hike into the hills with a truffle hunter or take out mountain bikes and cycle to some of the incredible Unesco cultural sites which are on the doorstep. Then a private yoga lesson or guided mediation and an in-room ayurvedic massage. We just recommend taking the time to do what makes your soul happy.

 

There’s an amazing simple truth that when we make better ethical decisions we live better lives and it’s one of the best ways to help the environment. Visiting small boutique retreats like ours support local workers, craftsmen and women, farmers, cheesemakers, artisans and so many more…. and of course allows us to preserve a sustainable farming philosophy for the long term. I’ve learnt from my time here in Italy to slow down, stay consciously and to love things that last.

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Dreaming of Tuscany

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Dreaming of Tuscany

8 Reasons to come back after Lockdown

As we all speculate madly the reopening of our borders and our personal freedoms it is impossible not to daydream about where we’ll go when all of this is over.

Here in Italy it looks as if international travel could be seriously limited for most of us in 2020 and holidays in our beloved country will be the order of the day. While we’ll be ready to jet off to faraway places when we can travel overseas again, our time in isolation has given us a new appreciation of the beauty spots found right on our doorstep. One place we’re dreaming of retreating to is Tuscany and to help you along we’ve come up with 8 reasons why Tuscany might fit the bill for your first adventure outside of the four walls of your city apartment.

Click on the playlist I’ve put together below to really feel the vibe…

  1. Open Spaces After time spent in close quarters with our families we are all begging for space-both inside and out. Our souls need restorative calm and comfort at the same time. We also know that maintaining safe distances will be critical now to prevent a second peak. Choosing more remote locations in the middle of small farming areas away from big cities will keep us safe and allow us to retreat without worry. Open skies, landscapes and deserted roads are on our shortlist of must-haves.

2. Immersing ourselves in Nature The unspoilt reserves and bountiful nature, combined with the warm hospitality, offers the perfect post-lockdown remedy to ‘re-wild’ and get back to nature. Gentle hikes, bike rides, yoga on your terrace or a lazy walk on an unspoilt beach are what we need to offset weeks of shifting sands and uncertainty. We want to unplug and tap into the simplicity of local life.

 3. We can drive there…and bring your dog How much do we love throwing our bags, kids and the dog in the car and heading off? As much as a trip overseas takes us out of ourselves, the flight can often zero us when it comes to travel stress. The simplicity of travel with the family and a car loaded up with everything we need is actually a godsend. And our children and our dogs need the countryside as much as we do.

4. Clean living, eating and drinking Getting back to our core values will be a priority for many of us. We’re all feeling” less than” after lockdown so making sure that whatever break we choose gives us the chance to nurture ourselves with organic food and drink and a farm to plate ethos Spending a few days being taken care of with wines, olive oils and regional foods which are all sourced locally is good for the body and for the heart. Plus, at its centre the best travel experiences are full of tastes, smells and connections of the senses. Its self care at its best and supports our local Tuscan artisans who have been hit the hardest during the crisis.

5. Making our money go a little further All of us have felt the hardship of the lockdown and how it has affected the Italian economy and our own pockets. Many of our own Italian businesses won’t survive and this is particularly true for those in Tourism. However, some are offering incentives to encourage us to support them while they help us at the same time. In addition, most Hotels are offering 100% flexibility for any bookings made right now. #booknowstaylater is the advice from many travel experts and by doing so we’re helping small boutique businesses get through a tough time. 

6. The Air is Clean in Tuscany Every day I check Il Meteo and I see the lightest azzure colour indicating the almost perfect air quality. Knowing that clean air is central to staying well during Covid makes me really think about where I want to spend time in the future when I have a chance to escape. Tuscany’s air quality and untouched landscapes resonate with our need for deep down healthy living-this is one of the new luxuries we will all be demanding. No doubt we will want to eat beneath the trees, gaze at a sunset and sip a glass of something exquisite al fresco. Its the lifeblood of our country.

7. The Wine….oh the Wine Vineyards stretching out beyond our gaze, a glass of rounded, red gorgeousness at our lips is something which echoes from our ancestors and draws us with a hypnotic pull to Tuscany time and time again. There’s nothing quite like your Tuscan aperitivo as the swallows fly overhead and the day comes to a balmy close. Wine experiences and tastings take you deeper and closer to the earth which produces some of our best vintages and olive oils. Don’t forget that this Summer we’ll have it all to ourselves without the tourists. Heaven!

8. Staying consciously It’s not enough anymore to check-in, chill and check out. We’re looking for a curated stay and a transformative experience. This holds true even with a short break close to home, but we don’t want to sacrifice quality. Service for many of us simply means someone listening to our needs and meeting them with personal attention, care and kindness. After such a huge shift in our lives where we have lost so many of our routines and in-person connections, we are feeling a deep deficit of self-care and grounding. Making sure we choose destinations with an ethical philosophy around the personal wellbeing of guests is a high priority for anyone coming to terms with the last few months. Where better than Tuscany to slow down, stay mindfully and heal in a safe sanctuary you can trust.

To reserve your private hideaway at Conti di San Bonifacio Wine and Wellness where you can recharge and rebalance in one of our seven suites #booknowstaylater.