CASTELLO DI VELONA RESORT, THERMAL SPA & WINERY, Montalcino

The hotel offers rooms in the historic castle and a new wing, each with a marble bathroom and satellite TV channels. Rooms in the new wing include a patio and a spa bath in the bathroom. Many rooms feature natural thermal baths, and all provide views of Tuscan vineyards and the Val d'Orcia countryside.

The on-site restaurant serves regional cuisine paired with the hotel's own Brunello wine and olive oil. A Dine Around program offers access to nearby Michelin-starred restaurants. The Lounge Bar and restaurant both have terraces overlooking the vineyard-covered hills.

Castello Di Velona is the only castle in the world built on top of a natural thermal spring, providing heated indoor and outdoor pools with mineral water. The spa includes a sauna, steam room, hammam, and treatment rooms offering massages, body scrubs, and facials. Guests can also book yoga classes and use the fitness centre with locker rooms.

The hotel organizes wine tastings in the internal cloister led by a Master Sommelier, and cooking classes focused on Tuscan cuisine. Bike rentals, hiking, and walking tours let guests explore the surrounding Val d'Orcia. The concierge can arrange helicopter transfers via the on-site helipad.

The property sits on a hill overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage Val d'Orcia, with 360-degree views of Brunello vineyards. Sant'Antimo Abbey is 2 km away, and Siena is a 30-minute drive. Pienza and other historic towns are within easy reach for day trips.

Location: Hilltop castle overlooking UNESCO Val d'Orcia

Rooms: Castle rooms with marble bathrooms and thermal baths

Dining: Regional cuisine with hotel's own Brunello and olive oil

Wellness: Thermal spring pools and full-service spa

Activities: Wine tastings, cooking classes, helipad, bike rentals

Unique: Only castle built on a natural thermal spring