Once upon a time, amid the rolling Tuscan hills of the Chianti region, a tiny hamlet, or borgo, called San Felice stood. The medieval village charmed with its stone buildings, chapel, town square and endless vineyards. Fast forward to today, and little has changed over time—those buildings remain and those olive groves still flourish—but a new story is unfolding. This chapter of Borgo San Felice is one that brings past and present together for locals and travelers alike, in the most meaningful way.
The transformation to convert Borgo San Felice from an eighth-century village into one of Italy’s most unique properties was a delicate execution. Turning an entire town into a lavish hotel included the careful refurbishment of the village’s centuries-old buildings, stone homes and chapel. The result however is nothing short of spectacular, with 29 guest rooms and 31 suites whimsically connected by the winding streets and alleyways of the village. The attention to detail in every corner of Borgo San Felice creates a magical atmosphere of days past, as if time has stood still—just ask our team here at Kiwi Collection.
Under the Tuscan Sun
With the everchanging hills of Siena as its backdrop, Borgo San Felice is Tuscany at its most charming. Its location offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of Italian city life, while being close enough to enjoy the many towns of Tuscany—Siena is just a 20-minute drive away and Florence can be reached in under an hour.
But ask any guests who visit this lavish hideaway and they’ll say it’s easy to spend several days on the property wandering the blooming gardens, lounging by the open-air swimming pool, hiking the hills or simply relaxing at the spa concealed within the old olive mill.
Suite Temptation
Ensuring that guests feel as if they’re living in a village-like ambiance, rooms and suites at Borgo San Felice are scattered throughout the historic buildings. With stone walls and terracotta roofs, the beautifully converted guest rooms offer every modern comfort. The historic nature of the buildings means that no two rooms are the same, but all are spacious and decorated in a classic contemporary style with Tuscan details. Exposed beams, travertine, oak floors and ceramic artwork made by local artisans can all be found within. Just outside the windows, red geraniums spill out of flower boxes, while hanging jasmine delicately scents the air.
If you wish to bring the whole family or simply want more privacy, the resort offers two villas: Cassanova and Colonna, both just steps from the village. Equipped with private gardens, full kitchens and pools, these villas allow you to experience Tuscany like a local, with all of the amenities of a luxury hotel at your fingertips. In Spring 2023, the property is set to unveil the renovations of four master suites, all inspired by the traditional elegance of the region.
The Happy Garden
L’Orto Felice, which translates to “the happy garden,” is the beating heart of Borgo San Felice. Beyond the fruits, herbs and vegetables that grow here, this agricultural project promoted by the UMANA MENTE Foundation of the Allianz Group is crucial to the sustainable and social development of the village. L’Orto Felice is not only a social farming project, it’s a haven for local children with disabilities. With the help of local elders, the project aims to rehabilitate and pass down the agricultural traditions that have been the glue of the community to the younger generation.
The chefs of Borgo San Felice will often visit the garden to purchase organic ingredients to be served in their restaurants, a reflection that the spirit of this garden is rooted in sharing.
Michelin Star Farm-to-Table
Whether it’s traditional Italian you’re craving or modern Tuscan, Borgo San Felice is a culinary destination. Oenophiles may recognize the name as it is home to San Felice Winery’s primary wine estate. Of its more than 700 hectares, 188 are vineyards in the three most prestigious production areas of Tuscany. Here, Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, Bolgheri and other superb blends are produced on-site. Foodies on the other hand may be traveling to the resort for Michelin Star dining. Awarded one Michelin star and a Michelin Green Star, Poggio Rosso is farm-to-table dining at its finest, with a focus on organic ingredients. For something a bit more casual, there’s Osteria del Grigi.
But beyond the property’s exquisite restaurants and wines, the essence of Tuscany’s authentic cuisine can be experienced with a hands-on cooking class. Learn traditional techniques from skilled chefs and master the art of making delicious homemade fresh pasta and Florentine-style bread, the perfect bites to accompany the bottle of wine you picked out from the hotel’s private wine cellar.
Sights Set on a Felicitous Future
At its core, Borgo San Felice is committed to preserving the planet. Its sustainability roadmap for a brighter future features three key pillars: environmental conservation, societal empowerment and sustainable cuisine. Zero Waste Hotel certification, 100% renewable energy and a carbon-neutral laundry service are just a few of the sustainable practices adopted at the borgo, yet some of its most special commitments happen in the kitchen.
Chef Juan Camilo Quintero and his team at Poggio Rosso received a Michelin Green Star, as mentioned, which is awarded to those in the culinary arts committed to gastronomy and sustainability. By sourcing produce from L’Orto Felice and embracing sustainable farming methods, the restaurant has been applauded for its use of “zero miles” ingredients.
Upon medieval remnants, Borgo San Felice builds something even more enduring. In weaving together past, present and future, the borgo writes a new chapter with each guest who walks its storied paths.
