LA CANONICA COOKING SCHOOL

Located in the former priest’s house in the heart of the Borgo, La Canonica Cooking School presents guests with the opportunity to learn how to prepare authentic Italian cuisine, from traditional Tuscan dishes to fresh pasta and Italian pizza.

Classes
The two-hour classes are kept deliberately small in order to guarantee personal attention and hands-on involvement. During the lesson, the chef recreates a real situation that begins with selecting raw ingredients from the organic kitchen garden. Returning to the kitchen, the class goes through the phases of preparing and tasting the recipes which include pizza, fresh pasta and forgotten flavors of Tuscany. The informal style of the lesson recreates the way traditional cooking skills were handed down in the past.

Organic Kitchen Garden
Located just steps from the cooking school, the organic kitchen garden provides the inspiration for many of the recipes. The garden was designed by the same landscape architect who created the Vatican Gardens. The seasonal plots and beds in the walled garden contain over 180 varieties of vegetables and herbs. It is here that the link between land and cuisine is most evident, highlighting the importance of simplicity and genuine flavors.


WINERY

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco offers its guests immersion into the world of Tuscan wine with vineyards located within the estate and along the coast. The on-site winery hosts an array of wine-tasting seminars and an annual harvest event takes place in September. 

Castiglion del Bosco produces Brunello di Montalcino that is elegant and deeply rooted in local tradition—ruby red, intense and complex, with golden yellow hues or burgundy overtones like fiery rows of sunlit autumn vines. The terroirs of the arid, breezy heights of Capanna and the wetter hills to the north around Gauggiole are captured in three different labels, each telling of soil rich in clay, sandstone and typical Tuscan marl. These elements nourish the Sangiovese grapes of the single-cru Campo del Drago DOCG, the Brunello di Montalcino DOCG and the Rosso di Montalcino DOC.

The fifth biggest producer of Brunello di Montalcino, the historic winery at Castiglion del Bosco was a founding member of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino in 1967. The harvest, a two-stage hand selection process unchanged since the 18th century, and barrel-aging in the 4,000-square-meter (43,033-square-foot) winery are rituals supervised by enologist Cecilia Leoneschi. 

Montalcino Vineyards
Castiglion del Bosco is located in the northwest of Montalcino, where the rocky soils are perfect for yielding wines of superb structure and complexity. The estate's 2,000 hectares are largely occupied by dense woods of holm oak, oak and beech, in addition to meadows, organically farmed crops and 62 hectares of vineyards planted exclusively with Sangiovese, the historical grape, autoctone variety. There are two distinct vineyards defined by unique aspects, soils and weather conditions: the 20-hectare Gauggiole just beneath the Borgo and the 42-hectare Capanna, where the top wines are produced.

Riparbella Vineyard
Castiglion del Bosco also owns a 10-hectare estate called Prima Pietra in Riparbella, located on the Tuscan coast near the Bolgheri wine area. The vines face the Tyrrhenian Sea at an elevation of 450 meters.  The site enjoys abundant sun and ventilation, and the rocky, iron-rich soil ensures wines of superb structure. After in-depth soil and climate research, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot were planted at a density of 9,600 vines per hectare.


GOLF

Set within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the estate’s 18-hole golf course offers an unparalleled experience in Italy's only private golf club. Designed by legendary British Open winner Tom Weiskopf, the breathtaking course is challenging and enjoyable to play. Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco’s guests have limited access to the golf club.

The truly Tuscan personality of Castiglion del Bosco Golf Club is conveyed in its pristine natural setting within the historic landscape of the Val d’Orcia. Dotted with majestic cypress trees, the course follows the contours of the gently rolling hills and blends in perfectly with the surrounding environment.

The rough consists of fescue and graminaceous grasses which offset the pristine green of the well-manicured fairways. The course is lined by stands of mature trees with fully sustainable water hazards and natural water courses. It is suitable for players of all abilities, right up to the challenging 19th hole, the Brunello hole. 

Occupying a former rustic farmhouse, the Club House comprises a bar, pro shop and adjacent practice facilities.


OTHER ACTIVITIES

Athletic Boot Camp in the Woods
Challenge yourself and enhance your well-being during an open-air “boot camp.” In a sylvan setting of rarefied beauty and tranquility, guests, age 12 and up, take part in a one-hour session of circuit training with levels and types customized to their needs and age.

Archery
For archery enthusiasts or those interested in learning the sport, an archery field and all of the necessary equipment are available at Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco. Under the direction of an experienced teacher, guests can learn or practice this sophisticated interest. Instruction is offered for guests age six and up and sessions last approximately one and a half hours.

Picnic in the Vineyards
A hike along panoramic trails, immersed in nature and surrounded by stunning views, leads to an authentic Tuscan picnic laid out on a patio overlooking the vineyards.

Astronomy Under the Tuscan Stars
The mysteries of the magical night sky unfold under the expert guidance of the estate’s astronomer. Using advanced equipment to reach the stars, guests enjoy an instructive and fascinating experience.

Landscape Painting
Capture the stunning natural surroundings of Castiglion del Bosco on canvas while enjoying a lovely day in the Tuscan outdoors. Landscape painting classes are led by two artist-instructors with many years of combined experience. Half-day mini courses are offered; two sessions are recommended for optimal results.


ESSENTIALS

Brunello di Montalcino, The Secrets
Enjoy a scenic outing in the splendid Tuscan countryside as you tour the Brunello wine district. During visits to three select wineries, you will explore the vineyards and cellars and sample varieties of the famous Sangiovese grape red wine, the Brunello di Montalcino. Itineraries are personalized according to guests’ preferences. A wine expert accompanies the full-day guided tour which also includes lunch.

Unexpected Siena
Experience nearby Siena on a half-day excursion led by an experienced local guide. Enjoy exclusive access to the private and historical Contrade (district) of Il Palio, site of the famous bi-annual horse races. A visit to one of the city’s oldest bakeries and a relaxing walk through the evocative historical city center allow visitors to embrace the city’s rich heritage.

Nature Walk
Marked trekking trails wind throughout the 5,000-acre estate allowing guests to explore a profusion of flora and fauna. A member of the expert staff is available to escort participants on a discovery of the most beautiful corners of Castiglion del Bosco on a guided trek. 


GASTRONOMY

Wine Experiences
The on-site winery hosts an array of wine-making and wine-tasting seminars, and an annual harvest festival takes place in September.

Truffle Hunting
Take part in a memorable truffle hunt accompanied by local experts and their highly trained dogs. A taste of mouth-watering truffles is enjoyed at the close of the hunt. The two-hour outing takes place 30 minutes from the estate and is offered throughout the year except in May.


OFFBEAT

Tuscany from the Sky Helicopter Tour
Departing directly from the estate’s helipad, a helicopter ride high over the breathtaking Tuscan hills and vineyards is a world-class experience. The one-hour tour provides a unique and unforgettable perspective of the Italian countryside.

The Art of Craftsmanship
Ceramic, iron, copper, gold, silver, precious stones, leather and linen are just some of the outstanding Tuscan products that invite further investigation. Accompanied by an expert local guide, participants of this tour meet the artisans who work in the traditional manner, preserving and developing the value of the ‘Made in Italy’ designation.

As an option, participants can continue on to the charming medieval town of Cortona to meet a professional artisan jeweler and discover the secrets of his intricate art. An exclusive dinner with aperitifs, laid out in his elegantly appointed workshop, is included. 

Quad Tour
Embark on an off-road adventure to visit the Abbey of Sant’Antimo. The former Benedictine monastery is a hidden gem of Tuscany. At the finish, enjoy a wine tour and light lunch or sunset aperitif at a traditional winery. The excursion departs from Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco and lasts three to four hours. As an option, guests can also stop at an olive oil mill in the heart of Montalcino for a tour and tasting. 

Hot Air Ballooning
Hot-air ballooning offers passengers the chance to explore the breathtaking Tuscan landscape from a totally unique perspective. A traditional balloon toast marks the end of the journey. Flights depart early in the morning from a location 10 minutes from the estate and last approximately one hour. 


LOCAL EVENTS
Throughout the year, cultural festivals, historic celebrations, wine events and sporting engagements mark the changing seasons in Tuscany. Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco is brilliantly positioned to allow guests to join in the rich and varied local and regional events.

The countryside of Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco provides an enchanting backdrop for adventure and exploration. Surrounded by green meadows and tall trees, the storybook setting provides a place for children to play, have fun and use their imagination.

Rose Buds
At Rose Buds, children participate in absorbing activities and hours of entertainment led by dedicated staff in a magical atmosphere. The club features cooking workshops and treasure hunts as well as swimming, archery and tennis lessons. Young guests can go horseback riding, explore the woods and attend outdoor fitness sessions. They can also try their hand at photography, have a go at oil painting or study the stars like an astronomer. Access is complimentary (fees may apply to specific activities or events). A fun children’s dinner menu can be served upon request.

Babysitting services are also available by request.

Located in the heart of the Borgo and attached to the church of San Michele, Osteria La Canonica offers the authentic, warm atmosphere of a Tuscan trattoria. La Canonica features a shaded open veranda overlooking the stunning valley. In this rustic and informal atmosphere, melded in wood and wrought iron, delicious pizzas and focaccia are prepared to order in an ancient open-view wood-fired oven. Seasonal produce from the organic kitchen garden is combined with other natural ingredients and freshly milled oil from Castiglion del Bosco to create traditional Tuscan fare.

SPA
Located at the heart of the Borgo in the estate’s former wine cellars, The Spa at Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco is a haven of serenity, suffused in earth tones and natural hues. With its sauna, steam bath, relaxation area and lush private garden, this refuge offers rest and rejuvenation for body and soul. The spa offers two complementary paths to beauty and rejuvenation: exclusive treatments developed in the laboratories of the renowned anti-ageing specialists of La Prairie, and The Spa at Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco’s own natural body care line, which draws on the rich flora and natural bounty of southern Tuscany. Taking a holistic approach to complete well-being, the spa promotes beauty, balance and relaxation through cleansing and vitalizing sensations. Well-being is enhanced by the beneficial heat of the sauna and the sublime envelopment of the steam bath, while the relaxation lounge restores balance to the body through infusions.

FITNESS
The beautiful natural environment of Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco provides an ideal place for an invigorating walk, hike or ride. Marked foot paths wind throughout the 5,000 acre estate and there are designated hiking and mountain bike trails to suit various levels of ability. The search for balance, peace and energy can start with a yoga class or a Pilates session for renewed control and concentration. Both yoga and Pilates can be enjoyed at the fitness center or in the privacy of one’s suite or villa. Offering panoramic views of the estate’s gently rolling hills, the fitness center features next-generation Technogym® equipment to improve balance, strength and flexibility. Fitness training sessions include aerobics and other exercises that tone the body and strengthen specific muscle groups. Training can be customized in a daily program or mastered with the assistance of a personal trainer in the privacy of one’s villa. Guests can also benefit from specialized fitness training sessions that take place in the estate’s woodlands or from training sessions created specifically for golfers who wish to improve their performance on the course.

POOL
Located within the Borgo, the estate’s main pool is conveniently situated for guests of the suites. While enjoying a refreshing swim in the heated 20-metre-long x 10-metre-wide pool, guests can look out upon the hilltop town of Montalcino, the Val d’Orcia and the woods of Castiglion del Bosco. During the summer, a colorful field of lavender graces the pool’s panoramic edge. All of the pools within the estate, including the private villa pools, are saline infinity pools which are kept at an ideal 28°C. In keeping with the estate’s Tuscan aesthetic, they are paved in a timeless Tibetan stone that produces a beautiful, inviting water color. Fresh, simple Italian delights are especially satisfying when enjoyed poolside under the warm Tuscan sun. The Pool Bar's food menu is available daily from noon to 4 p.m. and refreshing drinks are served whenever the pool is open.