Inside the Italian 11th Century castle that’s a luxury hideaway for wellness seekers

Inside the Italian 11th Century castle that’s a luxury hideaway for wellness seekers

Among the rolling hills and towering pines of Italy’s ‘green heart’, you’ll find the Reschio estate. Lovingly restored by the Bolza family, this 3850-acre sanctuary on the Tuscan border is a place where an 11th Century castle has become the ultimate hideaway hotel.

Inside Reschio

Here, nature isn’t just a backdrop—it’s an invitation to slow down. Whether waking to the soft song of birds or watching the rising sun burn off the morning mist, life here is unhurried. Horses meander across the rugged terrain, plumes rise from the outdoor smokery and the scent of wildflowers drifts through the air.

It’s a setting that lends itself to rejuvenation.

“Modern urban living is frenetic,” says the Reschio team. “We offer the opportunity to slow down, follow your circadian rhythm, and appreciate the flow of the seasons. To stay within this environment, you cannot help but become part of the natural world.”

Cycle through woodland trails and forage for truffles, or take a dip in the lake for a spot of wild swimming. Alternatively, venture out with the hotel’s resident gamekeeper to spot porcupines and fallow deer. Reschio offers an opportunity to reset, recharge and embrace nature’s rhythms.

Finding calm at the bathhouse

After a restful night in one of Reschio’s castle rooms or one-of-a-kind farmhouses, descend the stone steps beneath Palm Court and discover the Bathhouse.

This subterranean oasis is built into the ancient wine cellars and features a large salt-water Roman bath, complete with vaulted stone arch and tropical rain shower. In adjacent rooms you’ll find an octagonal hammam and fragrant Swedish sauna crafted from oak. The perfect spot to ease away any lingering tension.

Therapies harness the healing powers of natural elements like stone, light, and botanicals. Water is used in all its forms—in hot and cold therapies, purifying vapours and even in massage—while plants, heat, and breathwork create rich, multi-sensory experiences. The signature Bath Ritual combines dry brushing, a honey scrub, a linen wrap and chamomile water to bring aching bodies to a state of balance. Bliss.

Craft as self-care

Feeling crafty? Head to one of Reschio’s workshops. Held within the atmospheric Old Stables or Tack Room, these immersive sessions offer the chance to try a range of mindful activities, including fabric dyeing, pottery, paper marbling, and flower composition.

Perfect for a moment of quiet focus and reflection, the workshops also provide the opportunity to connect with others. For those keen to hone their craft, book a space on one of Reschio’s three-day retreats. Choose from bow making, calligraphy and even archery.

Nourishing food

Foodies will delight at the culinary offerings at Reschio. Learn how to transform home-grown produce, foraged herbs, truffles, and other seasonal finds into traditional Italian dishes at the on-site cookery school, Accademia di Cucina.

Alternatively, let the expert team of chefs do the hard work. Enjoy nourishing meals at Ristorante al Castello and Ristorante Alle Scuderie. Indulge in a tantalising tasting menu featuring bottoni, red prawns, sea urchins, and nettle, or opt for favourites like spaghetti alle vongole or gnocchi. Wash down with wines from the vineyard while enjoying live music (and a stunning sunset view).

Need to know

Rates at Reschio Hotel start from €935 per night including breakfast. Minimum two-night stay applies. Creative retreats start from €4,284 and include three nights of accommodation with breakfast for two people, tuition and materials.

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