Belmond has acquired Castello di Casole, a renowned Tuscan luxury resort, for $48 million. The estate is a significant addition to Belmond’s expanding Italian portfolio and combines a hotel with vineyards, olive groves, extensive Tuscan countryside land and 48 residential plots. Now named Belmond Castello di Casole, the property features architecture dating back to the 10th century and was once owned by the celebrated Italian filmmaker Luchino Visconti.
Roeland Vos, president and chief executive officer of Belmond, said he was delighted to welcome Castello di Casole to the company’s collection of luxury destinations. This acquisition supports Belmond’s strategic growth plan and its aim to expand the brand’s global footprint. According to Vos, the move is part of a broader effort to increase revenue and EBITDA, and it complements Belmond’s existing Italian properties—many guests already travel from Belmond Villa San Michele in Florence to enjoy the authentic rural retreat that Castello di Casole offers.
Belmond plans a $9 million refurbishment program spread over four years to enhance the guest experience while preserving the estate’s historic character. Upgrades will include spacious, luxury accommodations inspired by the Tuscan surroundings, a vaulted wine cellar, a spa, and two additional villas. The resort will also expand its range of unique activities, offering guests experiences such as truffle hunting, vineyard walks and other Tuscan-focused pursuits that showcase the region’s terroir and traditions.
Vos emphasized Belmond’s commitment to acquiring and restoring distinctive properties with notable heritage. He noted that Castello di Casole’s Etruscan roots and glamorous history make it a natural fit for the brand, which seeks destinations that convey a clear identity and emotional connection. When guests enter a Belmond hotel or step aboard a Belmond train or cruise, they should instantly recognize the brand’s character—an attribute Vos said Castello di Casole possesses in abundance. The acquisition, completed in 2018, is intended to raise the property’s profile and deliver stronger brand exposure alongside improved financial performance.
With its combination of historic architecture, cultivated land, and curated guest experiences, Belmond Castello di Casole aims to reinforce Belmond’s position in Italy’s luxury hospitality market. The refurbishment and program enhancements are designed to respect the estate’s legacy while updating facilities and services to meet contemporary luxury standards. This balance of preservation and investment seeks to attract discerning travelers looking for authentic Tuscan experiences within a refined, well-appointed setting.
Overall, the addition of Castello di Casole underscores Belmond’s ongoing focus on strategic acquisitions that expand its collection of exceptional properties. By investing in the estate’s physical restoration and broadening its experiential offerings, Belmond intends to strengthen the resort’s appeal and ensure the castle’s historic charm continues to resonate with guests for years to come.