“Charlotte Horton's south Tuscan castle, tucked away in a secret valley off the beaten track, is a real find. A maison d'hote full of antiques and family charm, this magnificent castle reeks of history. Guests eat together and can join cooking and wine weekends and courses. Great value, haunting beauty, total relaxation in good company.”

Written by  James Dunford Wood

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They say

“Why do people love staying in your hotel? Quotation from someone who stayed here.

'Wow - how many people can say they stayed in an authentic Tuscan castle, shared a table with a premium wine-maker and publisher, and slept in a Barone's bed. At Castello di Potentino you can, and I am overjoyed that I had the experience and can recommend this property not only for its authenticity but also for the magnitude of the hosts with their dedication to keeping your experience in their home real and organic.

Castello di Potentino is much more than an bed for the night - it is an extraordinary feeling of what it is like to live in a castle (Castello) in Tuscany. The history of the Castello is preserved in the walls, and as a home it is comfortable, regal and incredibly beautiful, yet it is a working winery producing sophisticated wines and distinctive olive oil.'

What is there to do in the area?
We are close to: Montalcino - famous for its Brunello wine, the onyx romanesque abbey of Sant Antimo, the Renaissance City jewel, Pienza, the famous gardens of La Foce, created by Iris Origo - the stunning medieval towns of Pitigliano and Sorano. Siena is an hour away. The hot springs and spas of Saturnia, Bagno Vignoni and Bagni San Fillippo are easy day trips. For walking we have treks around the valley or for the more strenuously minded the magic mountain itself with its romantic birch woods, the Amiata.

What kind of breakfast do you offer?
We do not have a restaurant here at Potentino, but we can cater for groups upon request. There are many lovely restaurants locally- we are fans of Il Silene in Pescina a ten minute drive away and the wonderful Dopolavoro at La Foce to name but two and we can organise lunches or wine tastings at other estates on request.

Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally?
We offer a self-service breakfast in the old castle canteen- when we travel, we like to wake up very slowly on our own terms and at Potentino, you can do this too- there is fresh fruit, a selection of cereals, local Tuscan bread and pastries and, if we have any left, some homemade cherry jam.

Which are your most popular room types, and why?
Our most popular rooms are ones with the four-poster, outrageously draped 18th century extravaganzas or throne with the famous golden bed which was used in various films including one which starred Anna Magnani.

What message would you like to give Hotel Guru readers?
To enjoy one of the last undiscovered parts of Tuscany.”