Castello di Velona
Montalcino, Italy
★ Verified by our editors · June 2026
The verdict
An 11th-century castle on a ridge near Montalcino with one of the biggest views in the Val d'Orcia — infinity pools that seem to pour off the hillside, a natural thermal spa and its own winery. Around 50 rooms, dramatic rather than intimate, and it leans resort-and-weddings; but for the setting, the sunsets and the thermal water over the valley, it earns its place.
Travellers who want a dramatic Val d'Orcia castle with big views, a thermal spa and Brunello country all around.
You want intimacy or cutting-edge design — this is a large, view-driven castle resort that hosts events.
Book a room on the valley side for the view, and time the thermal infinity pool for sunset over the Val d'Orcia.
The rooms
Around 50 rooms and suites across the restored castle and its grounds, in a classic, comfortable style — the ones to book face the valley, where the Val d'Orcia falls away below your window and terrace. More traditional than design-forward.
The setting
On a ridge near Castelnuovo dell'Abate, just below Montalcino, with a huge open view across the Val d'Orcia — a UNESCO landscape of vineyards and hill towns. The estate has its own winery and natural thermal springs feeding the spa and outdoor pools.
The food
A castle restaurant and a panoramic terrace handle Tuscan cooking with Brunello country in the glass and the valley in view; it's about the setting and the wine more than a destination kitchen.
Getting there
About 1h30 from Florence and Rome airports and 40 minutes from Siena, on winding roads up to the ridge. A car is essential in this part of the Val d'Orcia.
Good to know
Large and view-driven, and a popular wedding and events castle — lovely for the setting, thermal spa and sunsets, less so if you're after a quiet, intimate hideaway. Best in spring and autumn; the valley-view rooms are worth the upgrade.
