About This Villa

With origins dating back to the 12th century, this historic castle in southern Tuscany is set within a beautiful 40-acre estate of lavender, olive trees and protected forest, only a 20-minute drive from Siena.

Pass summer lavender as you approach the medieval tower, then step through to the charming courtyard from where you can reach and living spaces and bedrooms. The original tower dates back to the 1300s when the estate was a defensive outpost for Siena – the former chapel, now a sumptuous ground floor bedroom, still exists to this day. Since then, it was thought to be a hunting lodge and then a hamlet housing several villagers and animals. Nowadays Palazzone Della Lavanda is a magnificent abode for a wedding, special event or gathering with family and friends.

Sleeping up to 22 guests, the eleven air-conditioned bedrooms are so individual in style, each with their own story to tell. The main part of the castle is home to eight en suite bedrooms including the grand suite where the chapel once was with its historic furnishings and opulent bathroom, and the light-filled corner bedroom on the first floor with vineyard views (there’s a winery next door – tours and tastings can be arranged). The second and third floor bedrooms are part of the 12th century tower.

Just across the courtyard, the farmhouse has three further bedrooms (one en suite, plus a shared bathroom) as well as a characterful dining room for feasts with loved ones. Indeed, the services of the in-house cook and a helper are included five evenings a week – they will prepare and serve traditional Tuscan dishes for a truly authentic experience (guests only have to pay the cost of the ingredients and drinks).

Enjoy a continental breakfast, at an extra cost and to be booked in advance, prepared by the cook who is known for her delicious breakfast pastries, perhaps served in the main kitchen with its arched ceiling or in medieval courtyard during warm summer months. In terms of relaxation, there’s the main lounge with fireplace and billiard table as well as a first-floor salon where nobles were once hosted. Outside, discover a quiet spot in the courtyard by the roses, jasmine and terracotta pots of summer flowers.

Beyond the courtyard, follow old stone steps towards the swimming pool which can be heated on request (for an extra charge). Children will love the enclosed shallow area and there are loungers for sunbathing in the garden.

The vast estate is surrounded by protected forest and there are hikes and biking trails on your doorstep - look out for roaming deer, porcupines, hares, wild boar and migratory birds. The setting is idyllic, part of an organic working farm producing lavender, olive oil and honey. Embrace the serenity as you hear only the distant sounds of cuckoos, jays or farmers at work. Guests can help themselves to vegetables in the large organic kitchen garden.

Despite this remote setting, the local village is only 2km away with its restaurant and grocery shop selling regional products. Wander around the medieval quarter of the village with its old houses and palazzi. Across the area, admire the beauty of the rolling Sienese hills and dense forests in the Montagnola Senese region – the flora and fauna is fascinating throughout the seasons with an abundance of wildlife.

Continue to Siena, around 20 minutes by car, to explore one of Tuscany’s most beloved destinations - the iconic Piazza del Campo is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Meanwhile, hike or cycle through the woodland, swim in the Merse River and play golf at the Robert Trent Jones Jr designed course before returning to your medieval estate for delicious home-cooked fare by candlelight in this truly remarkable Tuscan setting.

Amenities