Podere Monastero

A castle first documented in 1044, Podere Monastero carries centuries of Tuscan history. From 1050 onward it bore the name Monastero, linked to nearby Berardenga Abbey. The Berardenghi family held it through the early 14th century. Siena claimed it in 1202. Florence besieged it without success in 1208. Guido di Montfort seized it in 1270 as a stronghold against Siena. The noble Chigi Saracini family later acquired it, establishing their country seat for hunting and harvesting from the vines. Today the estate houses 68 rooms and suites. Contrada restaurant occupies the piazza with seasonal menus of responsibly sourced ingredients. Cantina, set in a Medieval wine cellar with garden terrace, serves local and seasonal Tuscan cuisine. Wellness activities include spa treatments, yoga, meditation, trekking, and poolside reading.