Some places are so unforgettable, you still dream about it well after your departure. The Castello di Spaltenna Resort (Spaltenna Castle) and its Il Pievano Michelin restaurant in Chianti, Italy is just that kind of love affair.

From the day we arrived to this storybook resort in the charming town of Gaiole, we did not want to leave. We stayed for 2 nights for spa and rejuvenation time after touring Paris and Florence. We had been non-stop for almost 2 weeks at that point and on our way to Sorrento. My only regret is that we didn’t stay longer at this incredibly romantic place.

The grounds of this resort was spectacular and everything you could imagine staying in a Castle in Tuscany to be. The views were breathtaking at every angle. The pool area was so serene and private. There was not one spec of trash to be seen on the grounds.

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The architecture of the castle was made completely of stone and wood from the 18th century. Of course everything has been updated to include electricity and amenities for our modern day conveniences.

Accommodations

We booked a Deluxe Double Room (one bedroom suite) that overlooked the rollings hills of Tuscany! Our charming suite was above a quiet church and so inviting. The old world country decor was authentic and made you feel like you just stepped back in time.

Each night’s stay came with a buffet breakfast. But it’s no ordinary buffet, it’s generous with high quality eats! The fruits were incredibly tasty, actually the best quality we’ve ever eaten. Anything from pears, apples, grapes, melons, and assortments of berries all tasted amazing. The baked goods were freshly made and used ingredients straight from their gardens.

Castello di Spaltenna Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor

La Pieve Spa

We spent some time at the resort’s La Pieve Spa for massages and it was great. They have a full service menu from exotic showers to massages to facials and more. I had the Relax in Tuscany Massage which included a body scrub and bath. Hubby had the Dream Massage that had a variety of techniques that he enjoyed. The pool areas had fantastic views that can easily sweep you away for hours.

Il Pievano Michelin Restaurant

In one of the evenings, we had dinner at the resort’s Michelin restaurant Il Pievano. It was set in the main courtyard square of the castle. In Europe they begin eating dinner later than Americans. Reservations begin around 7:30pm daily and end approximately at 10pm here.

We had the 8 course tasting menu by Chef Vincenzo Guarino in 2016, but since then they have transitioned to Chef Stelios Sakalis. The evening was romantic with the Summer atmosphere and live piano in the background.

The dinner was delicious and the service was terrific. My favorite dish was the Mediterranean Fish and The Strawberry Latte for dessert. Hubby’s was the Risotto and The Salted Caramel for dessert. The end of dinner glass presentation with little treats was interesting. It was fun to taste each of the goodies. The tiny puff pastries were very good.

Il Pievano Michelin Restaurant: Read what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor

Hot Tip: The Best Pesto in Italy in the Tiny Town of Gaiole

We spent over 2 weeks traveling up and down Italy in the Summer of 2016. If ever in Chianti, head to the little town of Gaiole located at the very bottom of hill from The Castle Spaltenna. It’s maybe only a 15 minute walk down the hill.

There’s a cute cafe called Lo Sfizio di Bianchi that has the best pesto lasagna we’ve ever had! The handmade pasta was incredibly thin with perfect layers of fresh cheese and homemade pesto sauce. I could not stop eating it! I wasn’t even a fan of Pesto trying it in several countries and various regions in Italy until I had this incredible dish in this unknown town.

Enhance your experience and check out these TripAdvisor reviews:

Castello di Spaltenna: Find the best deal, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor

Il Pievano Michelin Restaurant: Read what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor

Lo Sfizio di Bianchi Restaurant: The best pesto on earth, read what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor

Ever wondered what it’s like to dine at Michelin Restaurants? “The Top 5 FAQ’s on How to Dine at Michelin Restaurants.”

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