Bringing Life Back to a Ghost Town
Monteverdi Tuscany. Once upon a time, Castiglioncello del Trinoro was a buzzing village. But as time ticked on through the 20th century, its population dropped from hundreds to barely a dozen folks. This medieval spot perched in Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, saw people moving out after World War II, leaving behind deserted houses and streets.
Then came Monteverdi Tuscany, a cool boutique hotel, stepping in to save the day. They spent a whopping ten years fixing up the place, using natural materials from around the area to restore the village’s look. The best part? They didn’t mess with its unique facades, so the killer view from the valley remains just as breathtaking as it’s been for ages.
New Life, New Vibes
Monteverdi Tuscany wasn’t content with just reviving the village. Nope, in 2022, they decided to pump it up even more. Now, this place isn’t just a hotspot for tourists – it’s drawing locals in with cool art events, swanky rooms, and killer views of Val d’Orcia. But the real star of the show? The food.
A Foodie’s Paradise
If you’re all about food, Monteverdi is your dream destination. Beyond the fancy spa and lush gardens, this place is a haven for your taste buds. They’ve got dining spots like Oreade, the Lobby Lounge & Terrace Bar, and the cozy Library Bar, which serves up the best spritz ever, with a view that’ll blow your mind.
Cook Like a Pro
Picture this: a centuries-old school building turned into a culinary academy. Here, guests get to learn pasta-making and Tuscan dish secrets from the master chef, Giancarla Bodoni. And don’t miss out on the Chef’s Table – it’s a cozy setup for a fancy dinner with top-notch food and wine pairings by Bodoni.
Savoring the Good Stuff
During my visit, the Library Bar with its books and killer view became my go-to spot. And let me tell you, the special spritz they whipped up with local Santoni Aperit was a game-changer. Garnished with thyme from the garden, it screamed Monteverdi’s love for local flavors.
Eating Tradition
Even at Oreade, where they put a modern spin on Tuscan eats, every ingredient screams local. From organic Tuscan olive oil to fantastic pecorino sardi from nearby farms, each dish brings out the true flavors of the region.
Meet the Visionary
The brains behind Monteverdi? That’s Michael L. Cioffi, an American lawyer and professor who stumbled upon this forgotten town during a trip. Teaming up with architect Ilaria Miani, they made this hotel blend seamlessly into the village with different types of rooms and private houses.
The Future of Food
Chef Bodoni is all about expanding the culinary garden and bringing in cows and chickens. Her mission? To showcase the area’s natural goodies while digging up its hidden stories, especially the strong Sardinian influence.
Digging into Heritage with a Twist
Bodoni’s got some playful plans, like the “Sardinian burrito.” It’s this cool combo of softened pane carasau wrapped around tender braised lamb, mixing tradition with a bit of fun.
New Life, New Meaning
For the young folks working at Monteverdi, seeing this village come back to life means a lot. From a handful of people living here to bustling streets, lively gardens, and restored buildings, it’s like witnessing history in the making.
To Sum It Up
Monteverdi Tuscany isn’t just a hotel – it’s a story of revival, food adventures, and preserving a rich heritage. It’s a place where every nook has a tale to tell and invites you to be part of its rejuvenated history.
