Belmond has acquired Castello di Casole, a luxury hotel in
Italy’s Tuscany region, for $48 million.
Belmond said it would spend $9 million upgrading and expanding
during the next four years, including the addition of two villas. The hotel will
be rebranded Belmond Castello di Casole.
Built during the 10th century, the castle is the centerpiece
of a village-turned-resort that has 39 hotel rooms and 48 residential plots as
well as vineyards, olive groves and an outdoor infinity pool with views of the
Tuscan countryside. The resort also has a spa built out of its wine cellar and
offers activities such as truffle hunting, cooking, hiking and biking.
Located about 40 miles south of Florence and about 20 miles
west of Siena, the property was once owned by Italian director Luchino
Visconti. It covers 3,700 acres (almost six square miles).