Castello di Vicarello, a luxury castle hotel situated between Rome and Florence in the untouched Maremma region of Tuscany’s rolling hills and Tyrrhenian Seaside, has plenty to offer guests in the Autumn months.
The vivid golden landscape provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities throughout the estate.
Hiking & Biking: Trek through the vineyards, forests, meadows and olive groves of the majestic Maremma region, either on a guided tour or on one of Vicarello’s signed hiking trails. Guests can hire a mountain bike from the castle to explore the tracks that wind through the countryside and enjoy breath-taking views towards the coast. Electric-powered bikes are also available for road routes.
Horse Riding: Experienced and novice riders alike can trek through the Maremma hills, either individually or in small groups, with an experience tailored to guest requirements.
Wellness: After the exertions of the day, guests can soothe mind, body and soul whilst immersed in the unspoilt countryside surrounding Castello di Vicarello. Private yoga sessions with professional instructor Bruno Lantenois can be adapted for complete beginners through to experienced yogis. A range of wellbeing treatments using organic oils and ingredients from the castle gardens can be enjoyed in the privacy of guest suites.
Autumn in Tuscany is a foodie paradise, when the region’s seasonal bounty is at its peak. Mushrooms and truffles make an appearance, and it’s the official opening of the hunting season. Game, including wild boar, from the estate’s nearby 1300 acre hunting reserve features on the menu. This is the time when new wine and olive oil are produced, and occasions for tasting are plentiful and unforgettable. At Castello di Vicarello, guests can be fully immersed in this seasonal produce.
Truffle Hunting: Venture deep into the forest with an experienced truffle hunter and his dogs, learning all about truffles and the secret to locating them. The Maremma region boasts both black and white truffles, and the best season is from October to the end of March. After the hunt, guests can indulge in a gourmet truffle-based lunch. Mushroom hunting is also offered.
Olive Harvest: Guests can visit Castello di Vicarello’s olive oil mill and spend the day with the local producer. Take a walk among ancient olive groves, discover traditional picking methods and sample freshly pressed organic oils – the intense green colour and spicy taste will give participants a new respect for the humble olive.
Grape Harvest & Wine Tasting: Gain a deeper understanding of how organic grapes are processed and transformed into award-winning wines, starting in the heart of the Castello di Vicarello vineyards on the slopes around the castle, established by Carlo Baccheschi Berti and his eldest son Brando. Guests can follow this with a personal, convivial masterclass in wine production over a delicious, seasonal Tuscan lunch.
Cooking Classes: Guests can discover the seasonal autumn flavours of the region with Aurora Baccheschi Berti and her chefs, using home grown ingredients from the castle estate. Follow recipes from Aurora’s published cookbook ‘My Tuscan Kitchen’ and learn the essential arts of pasta, bread and pastry making.
