FROM MONASTERY TO HOTEL

At the beginning of the 1980s, we Ursula and Thierry Besançon decided to create a place that would make nature and art lovers feel welcome in Tuscany.

We found the ideal property in Casanuova, a 350 year old estate, full of history. Originally it was a monastery, orphanage and then farmed by tenants of the Count Serristori. Slowly and carefully we restored the house, laid out gardens and terraces and started working the land again.

Now we have realised our plans and Casanuova has become a popular destination for individual holiday makers and groups, people who are looking for a home when on holiday and who would like to experience a naturalness in Tuscany which all too often nowadays has been lost.

It doesn't take long for our guests to get to know each other when setting and clearing the tables, and during our shared meals at the large wooden dining tables. Casanuova is a place for encounter and exchange, of activities and relaxation, a place of pleasure and improvisation. Over the years many visitors have become loyal regular guests and often meet up at Casanuova.

In furnishing the rooms we used exclusively natural materials. The rooms are tastefully furnished with the simple rustic furniture of the region. There is no TV and no mini bar, but instead you can enjoy delightful views of the countryside.

The house comprises 2 single rooms with a communal bathroom and 18 double rooms with bathroom, and one apartment. On request we can provide extra beds for groups and children.

Apart from a generously proportioned dining room and a lounge with piano and fireplace there is an inviting library, with its own fireplace. There are other corners for reading, sitting rooms, and a covered outdoor seating area and paved terraces with tables and deck chairs placed conveniently.