Travellers Reviews
Submitted by EDUARDO HERNANDEZ, BLAUVELT NY 10913, United States
We absolutley loved our room, and did not find the 80 steps up to it to be a problem. But I would be remissed if I did not question the fact that no where in the information of the hotel did it state that. I could only wonder what would of happen if this would of been a problem to manuver.
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The fact that there are quite a few steps, 80 to be exact to get up to the top room..Also, that a car is a very good idea, if not a necessary . It is not a easliy traveled area, and taxis are expensive.
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Beautiful scenery, wonderful staff, and all that you could want from a Castle in Tuscany. The food was excellent as well. Worth the trip!
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Submitted by Ron Gillespie, Calgary, Canada
The staff was very helpful and frienly. it was really great that everone that we dealt with spoke reasonable English, it help tremendously.
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As we had to leave very early on the last morning, being able to check out the night before was a big help.
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It would be very hard to describe how nice the property and accommodtions were. your web site did a good job of descibing it but until you actually see the castello it is hard to imagine.
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It is like going back several hundred years and trying to imagine how life would have been in a remote castle except you still have all the modern comforts and amenities.
Our stay in the Mona Lisa room was actually better than we were expecting.
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Submitted by robert zwaak, 4617 MK Bergen op Zoom, Netherlands
I would expect that the receptionist would inform us about the facility,about the house etc none of that ,only if we like to join dinner tonight
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the rooms where with moist(damp),the kitchenfacility was very poorand the outside was not neat therefore we booked over to the hotelroom and had to pay aditional
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When the owner arrived after a few days the servicelevel went up
I think that the price is not in comparence with the level for the appartment
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Submitted by Harold Beavers, Greensboro, North Carolina, United States
Awsome!
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Our stay was the greatest travel experience we have ever had. The facility was breathtaking, and each and every member of the staff was outstanding!
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It was like going back in time to a most relaxing and peaceful country estate. It was just what we needed!
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Submitted by denny stalter, milton,ma, United States
We spent 5 days at Castello di Tornano during our honeymoon and it was unbelievable.The people were so nice and helpful and we can't wait to go back.
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The best experience of our honeymoon
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Submitted by Lenae Shirley, Austin, TX, United States
Massimo is great. He has a welcoming smile and was very helpful with suggestions on where to visit and helpful tips when trying to park (and drive) in Florence. All of the employees were very polite to us.
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The website photos were beautiful, which was the main reason for selecting it over other options. But it is even better in person. Romantic decor.
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Ask about visiting the wine cellar and chapel. There is a nice hiking path along the river.
Pool and hot tub available only in summer months. Hot tub is located on top of the tower...great views.
We enjoyed their own label of Chianti Classico by the fireplace in the main castle.
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Great location. Castello di Tornano is a beautiful medieval castle. The interior is well-appointed and nicely decorated, very classy. It is also very comfortable...the castello feels like a home away from home with beautiful common areas for all guests to enjoy. This place is for those who want the real Tuscan experience...staying at castle on top of a scenic hill, surrounded by vineyards and olive trees.
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Submitted by Steve Bova, Snellville, United States
We got lost and arrived at 7pm. When I called, the owner said he would hopefully still be there when we arrived but also had someone else there to greet us nad help us get our bags in. He thought of everything. Their restaurant was closed that night so he had made us reservations at a lovely trattoria only 10 minutes away. We couldn't have received a warmer welcome.
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Castello do Tornano was old and full of character but very comfortable and had modern conveniences like baths etc.
The bed was actually the most comfortable I think I've ever slept on.
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We left very early because we had a long drive and didn't see any of the staff so early. We thought the room had already been charged to our AmEx card but apparently it had not. When we arrived back home 10 days later we had a very nice email from the owner and took care of the bill for our stay. They had no idea we were leavng so early.
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It was the quitest most peaceful place I think I've ever been. It has an amazing view from the roof. It was too cold for pool etc. but the property was incredibly charming as were all the staff.
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An amazing castle built in 972? AD that's been converted into a B&B. We had alot of sightseeing planned for this trip and didn't get to spend alot of time at the castle. We would definitely plan a trip back in warmer weather and spend alot of relaxing time just hanging out there. It gives one such an amazing feeling just being there.
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Submitted by Emily Schleiger, Minneapolis, MN 55418, United States
The waiter present, Alfonse, made us espresso and sat down to enjoy it with us. Great hospitality--made us feel welcome at once!
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WE WILL DEFINITELY STAY HERE AGAIN! It was amazing, the best place we've ever stayed.
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Pleasant experience.
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Amazing--relaxing, secluded, with warm hospitality, clean, spacious, felt like home, only it was a castle!!
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Submitted by Beth Lenoble, Dublin, OH, United States
After arriving at 8 PM, the staff asked if we were interested in the dinner that is served. Normally, guests have to reserve the meal ahead of time. It was a welcome surprise!
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The property was beautiful and the castle itself was quite charming. The staff was very friendly and although not all spoke English,it was not a problem communicating.
It was very remote and quiet. We didn't spend that much time on grounds because we were always exploring other areas of Tuscany. It would be a very relaxing place to stay to get away from everything.
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I would recommend getting some history of the castle. We inquired of its age while there.
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Remote, quiet, charming and beautiful.
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Submitted by Nina Otero, Manhattan Beach, United States
The dinner that we had at the Castel was wonderful. The kitchen is not open every night but if it is open dinner is a must!!
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Quiet place to stay to relax and enjoy the country for daytrips around Tuscany.
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Submitted by Jeffrey Austin, Melville, NY 11747, United States
We arrived at 1145p, well past the checkin deadline. Massimo was still waiting for us and provided a plate of food, a bottle of wine and a bottle of water. It was very appreciated.
Directions needed to be more precise. We got lost late at night on our arrival.
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Castello di Tornano is at the end of a very long and steep dirt road. It may not be suitable for all cars.
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Castello di Tornano is a small castle. We stayed in the farmhouse below the castle. The farmhouse is rustic, meaning simple. Still it was quite spacious for our family of 5. The grounds are wonderful and the views are breathtaking. We loved climbing the tower for the 360 degree view and loved swimming in the pool built into the moat.
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Submitted by tom kazmer, Greeley, CO 80634, United States
If you have a time and like to cook, take the cooking class for Chef Andrea, this was outstanding. The meals at Castello di Tornano were GREAT.....
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The prices listed on their some of their schedules were higher at checkout, polo shirts, tee shirts and cooking classes. Plus by paying by credit card, they increased the amount for by 2-3% to convert to dollars.
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Submitted by Craig Russell, Westport, United States
Too early in the season to have open the pool or hot tub-which we were expecting
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The place is just as beautiful and exciting as expected. The work done to renovate the castle and apartments was fantastic. The wine was simply wonderful.
The only negative is getting there. The road from the north, is extremely winding and steep for 10-15 miles. All of the people in our two cars suffered some degree of motion sickness. Obviously this is no fault of the acstle and owners. The problem is there if you are planning to do numerous day trips.The road to the south, towards Sienna is better, but still a bit tough.
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Submitted by Sharon Wu, Taipei, Taiwan
Castello di Tornano did not provide room as agreed terms. The manager moved us from the original Lucreaiz Borgia/suit in the tower to 'a smaller room/not in the tower' for the 4th and 5th nights. They said hotel was full from 15-17Oct04. We are not happy with this. They did not keep the agreed terms in the voucher.
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The room is good. However, selection and quality of breakfast could be improved.
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It is a very good property with good service, if only they keep the promised terms in the accommodatin and moving guests around.
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Good historical flare and beautiful, good to stay for a week.
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Submitted by Eli Erlich, Tel Aviv, Israel
The reception stuff was OK and helpfull
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The room was a nice one but without a lot of accessories you might find in a room at that price. We also found the heating system on at high temperature which we do not like. We tried to shut it down but couldn't and asked the stuff to do it. They tried twice, saying it is OK but actually did not do anything. Basically they did not provide the service we wanted and we had to sleep with all windows open in order to try and cool the room.
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We shortened our stay from 3 to one night, and when we came to check out the stuff was very cold and unwelcoming. Although the stayed one night only we were forced - blackmailed - to pay for 2 nights. As we needed to leave we had to pay.
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After dinner time the changce to get any service is nill. The guy who sats at night at the counter can't really help in anything other than call for help if required.
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Nice place which may be good for ione night and in not really worth the money it charges.
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Submitted by Amy Thruman
Pictures could not potray the beauty of the castle and the surroundings.
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The dinner prepared on site is taken from the land that surrounds the castle. This gormet meal is first class - just like the castle.
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Castle Tornano is real live fairy tale. I highly reccomend it.
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Submitted by Lee Weintraub
the place was just lovely. We were greeted warmly, and escorted up to our room after being shown around.
We were welcomed in our room with a bottle of wine from Castello de Tornano.
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our room was glorious with 360 views of the vineyards, olive groves and mountains beyond. Sunset was spectacular to watch throught the castle windows.
We have stayed in some of the best hotels and this room exceeded our expectations.
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We loved talking with the host. He had a bubbly personality and was really sweet.
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our room was glorious with 360 views of the vineyards, olive groves and mountains beyond. Sunset was spectacular to watch throught the castle windows.
Although a castle, the room was renovated to include the most up to date conveniences, a swank bathroom, and a jacuzzi hidden for privacy with glowing candles closeby. Dreamy
We have stayed in some of the best hotels and this room exceeded our expectations.
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just go! We were sorry we did not book more nights there, but will next time.
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Submitted by David Robinson
Arriving mid day, we were amazed at how beautiful it was. The pictures on the website had attracted us to stay here, but it does not prepare you for the beauty of this wonderful place.
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One of the things that stuck in my mind, was how happy the staff are. This leads to a most pleasent experience.
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Amazing
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Submitted by Kathy Jameson
We arrived during the mid-afternoon and was graciously greeted and offered food and wine even though it was not meal time. Staff was very thoughtful and kind.
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Our only suggestion is that the entrance to the castle needs to be renovated and the tennis courts also need some work done on them.
Alfons was amazing! He was very accomodating and went above and beyond! Our stay would not have as wonderful and as enjoyable if Alfons was not there to take care of us! We love Alfons!
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Alfons went out of his way to wake us up extremely early and was willing to make us coffee, etc. and get us on our way.
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The tennis courts are really not playable. The entrance to the castle needs renovation. The hot tub does not get hot. The service is impeccable!!!
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Very accomodating, beautiful, secluded, quiet, and the highlight of our trip!
We recommended the castle to friends 2 days after we left the castle and 8 of them stayed with you one week later (The Ravis/Bohls)
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Submitted by Norbert Herzog
Lovely Castell in Chianti with very polite staff, only with one disadvantage - the dusty and rought last 500 metres to the castell.
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see pt. 5
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A wonderful historical place to relax middle in the region of Chianti Classico.
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Submitted by Larry Helfand
Owners husband was there when we arrived and helped - very unexpected and nice.
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We had an excellent time at this beautiful location. The staff was very nice and the location fantastic. We highly recommend the winery tour! We would recommend this location to others & hope to be able to go back again.
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Castello di Tornano was offering a 4th night free with 3 nights by the time we arrived (harvest special). We didn't get the special since we booked earlier in the year. Would have been nice to receive the same special but recognize it wasn't offerred at reservation time.
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Closeness of location to Chianti towns and easy driving to those locations. Very quiet and private location. Should mention when hot tub/pool is closed.
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Submitted by Michele Stewart
We stayed in one of the apartments outside of the castle. It was not as clean as we expected, there were bugs and flies, and there was no air condition. We actually went into the nearby town to purchase 2 fans just to make it livable! We decided our best bet would be to stay gone as much as possible, so we did! We only stayed there to sleep, shower and eat breakfast. I would not reccommend the apartments to anyone! By the way, we never got our welcome drink either.
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All of the ammenities came at an additional charge which we chose not to pay.
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We were not given a receipt upon check-out. He couldn't get it to print out.
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The apartments are not air conditioned and are very buggy in the summer!
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I would tell my friends to buck up for the castle or not stay there at all.
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Submitted by Denise
We arrived 3 hours before check in and hoped that there
was a place to leave our bags. The staff was so friendly
and welcoming. Fortunately, our room was ready so we
were allowed to check in early. This was very helpful for
us.
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I cannot give enough praise to the staff at Tornano.
Everyone was so friendly and helpful. They really make
us feel welcome. I would go back in a heartbeat!
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Just as a friend recommended Castello di Tornano, I
would highly recommend the castle to others.
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Submitted by Debra
We actually upgraded our room and was so glad we did. The room in the tower was wonderful.
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We had a wonderful stay at Castello di Tornano. It was such a welcome relief from the tourist places and a nice place to come 'home' to at the end of the day. Alfonz was exceptional and was so attentive to us during our stay. The staff was great!
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We checked out the night before because we were leaving early the following morning. We have no complaints whatsoever.
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The only thing that I would add is that if you stay in the tower, be prepared to walk a few steps as there is no elevator. It seems that this is a no-brainer, and it was not a problem at all for us, but others might want to know. (There was staff on hand to carry our bags to our room.)
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We found Castello di Tornano a great place to stay to get away and enjoy the peace and quiet of the country. Absolutely no traffic noise to deal with. My husband especially enjoyed the tranquility of it. We stayed in the tower and had use of the hot tub--it was great to relax and look at the stars!
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Submitted by John
Absolutely beautiful castle with wonderful accommodations. Excellent service. Beautiful, quiet grounds. We LOVED IT!!!!
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Submitted by Deanna
One of the best vacations we have ever had!
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Submitted by Rocci
The staff- Mossimo, was fantastic! He was very friendly and even helped us make hotel arrangements for a spur of the moment trip into Florence! Thank you so much!
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Excellent! It was the closest thing to a fairytale, perfect!
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Submitted by George
Although we arrived very late, they offered to make us dinner after the kitchen had closed. This was a very nice welcome after a long day's travel.
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We would definately return to this property during our next visit to Chianti region. It was very well situated for day excursions, and comfortable.
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Situated very centrally in the Chianti region, with easy 20 minute drive excursions in every direction.
Excellent restaurants in villages within 10 minutes drive.
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Submitted by Sandy
Castle Tornano was an excellent place to stay -- the villa was beautiful, the scenery was breath taking, the on property restaurant was good & the staff was most helpful. We will definitely return there.
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The beauty of Castle Tornano was even better than the website & pictures.
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Not sure if website mentioned that the castle was originally built in 13th Century.
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A beautiful, romantic, historical castle surrounded by vineyards and olive groves in a tranquil, magical setting.
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Submitted by Mark
We arrived late and were treated to a wonderful dinner even though it was the chef's day off. We appreciated the extra effort by all staff!
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We loved the wine and the dinners were extraordinary! Our children loved being in the castle and we felt comfortable in the beautifully decorated rooms.
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We packaged up wine and olive oil to take home with us. It traveled back to New York with out a problem.
Thank you for a wonderful stay and we will definitely recommend the castle to others!
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We have described it as a beautiful castle in the countryside. The rooms were elegant and inviting. The food was delicious and the hospitality was superb.
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Submitted by John
Massimo was an outstanding host and cook as well. All the facilities, including the room, pool, restaurant, and grounds were superb. I highly recommend this to anyone traveling to this region.
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All the facilities, including the room, pool, restaurant, and grounds were superb. I highly recommend this to anyone traveling to this region.
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Submitted by Marie Louise
Expensive meals, otherwise excellent service.
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A nice place to stay. Beautiful outdoor pool.Nice rooms. Friendly and helpful staff.
Expensive meals, otherwise excellent service.
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Submitted by Gary
Castello di Tornano was a wonderful experience, with highly professional ownership and staff, and our stay there was nothing short of wonderful. The only problem was finding Castello di Tornano. The link to the website was in actuality to Castello di Tavolese, but when printed it was somewhat unreadable but could pass for 'Tornano'. Fortunately, the folks at Castello di Tavolese were extremely helpful and we arived at Castello di Tornano about forty-five minutes later.
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An extremely enjoyable stay in a wonderful location.
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A magical experience.
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Submitted by Lisa
Lovely acommodations, and particularly friendly staff.
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Submitted by Tara
Gorgeous spot to take in Tuscany! Close to Gaiole in Chianti, a lovely town with a couple of restaurants (if dining at the castle is not an option for every meal), and only an hour from Florence. Scenery is breathtaking, and the horseback riding was an experience of a lifetime. A thrill to stay in a castle, and at very reasonable rates. Highly recommended!
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Suggestion: the rooster wakes everyone at a very early hour - perhaps they could roost him further from the property?
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Submitted by Janice
We had a wonderful stay. The staff was terrific, very friendly, helpful.
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Beautiful, remote location, very comfortable,quiet, private, wonderful staff, a joyous place to spend a few days.
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Submitted by ronald
absolutely wonderful!
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Submitted by Susan
We found the Castello di Tornano to be quite charming and an historical treat! We will be coming back for a second trip! Susan From Aspen, CO.
Also, There was not enough meat prepared for one of our dinners, but everything was quite good. The hot tub was not heated, which we found disappointing. I don't know if the pool is heated or not, but it was too cold for swimming. Work on these things and you'll be perfect!
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yes
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Submitted by Barry
A very relaxing, beautiful haven!
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Submitted by Jeff
We arrived in the Tuscan Hills and found our castle. It is not a huge castle, but a warm and friendly atmosphere. The views are breathtaking. The staff was friendly and knowlegable. They told us many places to go. We felt we were in a very cantral area. You must have a car to experience this,be prepared of steep,narrrow and windy hills.
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Submitted by Sherry
A map showing the roads leading to it would be helpful as there are many small roads in the area and we were lost for an hour.
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Out in the country, very quiet and peaceful. Need a car to get to other locations for meals and sightseeing. Very pleasant staff and surroundings.
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Submitted by Jennifer
The staff was very accomodating, and the food and facilities were excellent.
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Although our room was lovely, being separate from the castle and under its own roof,it did smell a little mouldy - probably what you'd expect for an 800 year old castle.
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Castello di Tornano was truly lovely, with an unpretentious and very international atmosphere. The castello boasts its own charming chef, who taught my husband and I how to make an authentic Italian meal. We felt very pampered.
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Submitted by Jane
Generally excellent holiday. The very big problem however was that the 'road directions' link on your web took us to the wrong hotel. Castella di Tavolese instead of Castella di Tornano. Because of the similarity of names and poor quality of print out, we actually went to completely the wrong hotel. This ruined our first day as we eventually arrived about 4 hours after we needed to. I hope you correct the link soon.
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Didn't know about until all was already booked.
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Also didn't know about it
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Excellent and very friendly service
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Would have rather known in advance that there was only one set meal every night.
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Execellent and very friendly service. A beautiful location. The rooms in the tower are a must!
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Submitted by Pamela
I had requested a specific apartment and was not put in it when I arrived, but the staff quickly allowed me to change when I voiced my concern.
Steep gravel road up to the castello was a bit of a surprise.
A few more road signs would be reassuring to pinpoint where the property is.
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Hot tub not available - since when does it have to be warm out to run a hot tub!
I absolutely loved this property - so quaint and very unique!
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10 Euro for wine cellar tour. This is really quite expensive.
Prices of horse back riding were not quoted by staff correctly and it is jsut down the road - very important to keep abreast of price chagnes.
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I absolutely loved this property - so quaint and very unique!
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Submitted by Pat
Pat has left no specific comment, however has rated the overall satisfaction rate with a 87% score, his arival experience with a 74% value and his check-out with a 78% rate. |
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Submitted by Griselda
An absolute wonderful place to stay with amazing scenery. The staff were all great. Chef Manuel is wonderful, we had one of the best meals in Italy here at Castillo Di Tornano. Enjoyed their Chianti! Would reccommend to friends and family.
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Submitted by Robert
We arrived after a long hard day of traveling to find that the restaurant was closed. Massimo, the guest liason, took it upon himself to cook us a very lovely dinner. He was extremely helpful for the entire length of our stay and I cannot praise him highly enough. He seems to be the man that keeps the place running.
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Beautiful property, excellent staff, Massimo deserves a raise
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Beautiful property, outstanding and very friendly staff. Unique opportunity to stay in a beautifully restored 12th century castle. Not cheap but worth the money.
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Submitted by gordon
Room reserved was too buggy so we changed rooms after first night to a beautiful room
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tennis court?
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Beautiful castle, very romantic, helpful staff, gorgeous surroundings
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Submitted by Peter
Staff were friendly and helpful, but maybe a little disorganised. The table-tennis table was a little dangerous to use due to the state of the paving around it.
Tornano was patchy on room service - no weekly clean to speak of, and we had to change our own bedding.
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Fishing not available in mid-summer.
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Enjoyable and relaxing, with a lovely pool in a remote part of Tuscany.
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