We are very fond of the
Torretta because it is in our village.
Castelmuzio
is a terrific medieval hamlet, precious treasure of
the real Tuscany. A short distance from Pienza, Montepulciano,
the famous “clay hills” of the Crete
Sienese
and Monte Oliveto Abbey, it can provide you with the
opportunity to plan unforgettable day excursions and,
in the evening, relaxation and immersion in the local
culture.
The village has three
churches, two restaurants, a small shop and a bar
but is surrounded by other villages and larger towns.
Please note, this hotel
is not indicated for handicapped people.
ACCOMODATION:
The Torretta is right in the center of
the village, guests should keep in mind that the village
bar is directly down stairs. It is the perfect for
people who want to get in touch with the real Tuscany
and daily village life, far from crowded touristy
places.
The
hotel housed in a 15th century tower, offers a restaurant
with traditional local and very tasty menu.
All the
rooms are served with a bathroom with shower, they
have simple but comfortable rustic furniture and iron
work in keeping with the architectural integrity of
the building.
Please note that this
is simple family accommodation, there is no lift,
no mini bar and no telephones in the rooms. TV on
request only available for 3 of the rooms.
There is a gorgeous
view from the windows on the top floor, sweeping the
ancient roofs of the village and the uncontaminated
beauty of the surrounding hills.
There is also a private
dining or meeting room which can seat 12-14 people
around a long wooden table. In a corner there is a
sitting area.
The restaurant has
wonderful food and modest prices. It is located in
the ancient dining room, the ceiling is painted with
beautiful frescos from the 18th century. It can accommodate
thirty or forty people, inside and out. Traditional
and genuine local dishes make up the menu, i.e.: pici
noodles, gnocchi, game, world renowned
Chianina steaks,
extra virgin olive oil, handmade pasta and cakes accompanied
by the superb wines of the district.
Please don’t
forget that Italian village life means the church
bells ringing. Mercifully Don Sergio turns them off
from midnight to six a.m. but guests should keep in
mind that the church is across the square from the
hotel and it’s bells are clearly discernable.
LOCATION:
La Torretta is near to Pienza and Montepulciano
as well as with easy reach of most important Tuscan
places of interest. The nearest airport is Florence
(about 1 ½ hours by car) Rome and Pisa are
equidistant (about 2 ½ hours).
Please note that it
is not advisable to try to get your car into the village
and close to the hotel, the streets are very narrow
and confusing. It is best to park just out side the
village and walk in on foot (about 3 minutes).
HISTORY:
The first written mention of Castelmuzio dates from
1213: Castel Mozzo
in the State Archive of Siena,
to signify a settlement of people.
In the 14th, 15th and
16th centuries Castel Mozzo had the typical structure
of a small fortified castle, with a round plan surrounded
by walls and bastions designed to deny the barbarian
hoards and other enemies access to the tower-house
located in the middle of the square.
The tower-house, from
16th century on became the seat of the town council;
as a matter of fact it was the residence of the three
Priors (Captains) during their terms of office when
they carried out the duties of local administration
under the title; Camarlengo and of the Consiglio della
Comunità (community advisor).
The tower-house has
been restructured during the 18th century when it
assumed the name of Palazzo Fratini, part of which
is today occupied by Hotel, Restaurant and Coffee
bar "La Torretta".
OTHER
FACILITIES AVAILABLE NEAR BY: Tennis, golf,
the beach (1 hour and
20 minutes), horse riding, bike
riding, hiking, wine tasting, fabulous dining, thermal
spas, hot air balloon flying, designer out let shopping,
Etruscan ruins and Renaissance and medieval art and
architecture.
You will find numerous
attractions: excursions through naturalistic oasis
i.e.: Orcia Valley or Siennese Crete, visits to Siena,
Chiusi (wonderful Etruscan ruins), Perugia and Pienza
(cities of art).
You can also indulge
in the thermal baths at Chianciano Terme, Bagni San
Filippo or Bagno Vignoni all renowned for their relaxing
and healing properties and offering long lists of
rejuvenating and beautifying treatments. Last but
not least you can tour the world renowned Wineries
of Montepulciano (Vino nobile di Montepulciano) and
Montalcino (Brunello di Montalcino) taste the famous
Tuscan wines, olive oil and local pecorino cheese.