A Celebration of Food, Wine & Culture

IN COLLABORATION WITH IMAGINARIA EVENTS

Montefollonico, Tuscany

AUTUMN 2023 - 2024

“Welcome to our sensorial celebration of food and wine—an immersion in Italian culture under the Tuscan sun and stars— featuring truffle hunting, woodland hikes, wine workshops, and candlelit dinners.”

Gold Fern

AN ALBERGO DIFFUSO EXPERIENCE

What:  Six night all-inclusive retreat, with a focus on artisanal and sustainable food and wine, foraging and feasting set in the beautiful medieval village of Montefollonico in Tuscany, Italy—where the stars shine brightly.



Stay in diverse medieval accommodations sprinkled throughout the village for an immersive, unique experience… we honor the albergo diffuso concept (a widespread hotel) because we believe in the collaborative effort by locals to love, nourish, and sustain our tiny ancient village.


You’ll enjoy a convivial, immersive, and transformative experience which celebrates food, wine, and kinship…. while having tons of fun together!



Where: Montefollonico, one of the most beautiful 11th century villages in Tuscany. 1.2 hours from Florence, 45 minutes from Siena and only 15 minutes from Montepulciano and Pienza.



Explore the dreamy Val D’Orcia, Valdichiana, Siena, Montepulciano, Pienza and more!

When: NOW BOOKING AUTUMN 2023 – 2024

Your Hosts: Lourée & Niccolò Pieranni | Imaginaria Events & Borgo di Sotto Proprietors

DATES

6 NIGHTS/7 DAYS
(Sunday to Saturday)

AUTUMN 2023

SEPTEMBER 24 – 30 (ONLY 2-3 SPOTS LEFT!)
OCTOBER 8 – 14 (ONLY 2-3 SPOTS LEFT!)
OCTOBER 22 – 28 PRIVATE GROUP

AUTUMN 2024
SEPTEMBER 22 – 28
OCTOBER 6 – 12

Small groups of 10 for a more personal experience.

You may book a tour for your private group subject to availability.

RATES

From $5695USD/Euro per person. Please scroll down for rates.

We’ll be happy to reserve your spot for up to seven days without a deposit.

Gold Fern

Borgo di Sotto Toscana Medieval Montefollonico Magical Golden Hour

ABOUT CELESTIALE

Nicco (a Montefollonico native) and Louree (A California expat) will guide you on an epicurean adventure through Tuscany in our luxurious Mercedes minivan with private driver.

You will go foraging in the hills for truffles with a local truffle hunter; stay in a charming medieval village in medieval accommodation; learn to cook authentic Tuscan meals; wine taste at local organic wineries; explore castles, gardens and a Pope’s palace; mix spritz at the local bar and forge new friendships with like-minded adventurers.

Meals will be farm to table and beautifully styled including candlelit experiences, culminating in a castle extravaganza feast on our last evening.

Celestiale offers the opportunity for you to find your bliss in enchanting Tuscany.

Tuscany Italy Truffle Dogs
Tuscany Italy Truffle Pasta Tour Experience
Tuscany Italy White Truffles
Tuscany Thermal Spa Bagno Vignoni
Montefollonico Celestiale Tour Experience Castle Candlelit Dining
Montefollonico Tuscany Italy Castle Gardens

Retreat Highlights

  • Festive cooking classes including pasta making, using fresh local, seasonal products and foraged finds. Think pici, ravioli, pecorino, porcini and tiramisu!
  • Truffle hunting in the Tuscan countryside with a local truffle hunter and his rambunctious truffle-loving dogs.
  • A tour of Montefollonico, including the gorgeous castle gardens, churches, and an untouched 12th century winery for Vino Nobile and the liquid gold Vin Santo.
  • Nature walk in the woods surrounding Montefollonico.
  • A five-course candlelit castle dinner under the Tuscan stars.
  • Excursions to local boutique wineries for wine tastings paired with wine education and nibbles.
  • Day trip to the magical 14th century Siena including entrance to the breathtaking Duomo, descent to the crypt, and upwards to the Gate of Heaven.
  • A trip to Iris Origo’s historic La Foce Gardens.
  • A luxurious, healing thermal bath afternoon at the enchanting Bagno Vignoni.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

This retreat is designed for all who love the food and wine culture of Tuscany, anyone who is interested in immersive interactive experiences and savoring local treasures under the Tuscan sun and stars, finding the magic in every moment! It will be seven festive days of eating well, connecting, learning, and celebrating Tuscany in an intimate, joyful setting. All ages 18+ are welcome!

Location & Accommodation

MEDIEVAL MONTEFOLLONICO

THE HIDDEN GEM NEXT TO MONTEPULCIANO

Take in the magnificent views from 1,860 ft up above the Tuscan countryside—above the morning mist…

We’ll enjoy private access to the castle gardens with epic views of the Valdichiana and the Val D’Orcia.

Our accommodation includes our Borgo di Sotto—a beautiful eco-friendly medieval village home. The three story ‘townhome’ has been lovingly and sustainably restored, with a rustic, vintage feel and cozy comfort. Borgo di Sotto has been in Nicco’s family for over a century.

Additional charming and historic accommodation is also offered within the village walls, in the village castle.

You may choose from the following accommodations:

BORGO DI SOTTO B&B

‘La Segreta’ – For two guests

A queen bed suite downstairs with bathroom, kitchen, fireplace, and private entrance.

Partially ‘sotto terra’ (underground), keeping it cool in the warmer months.

‘La Vedetta’ – For two to three guests (exclusively for your group)

One queen bed suite upstairs with antique washing sink.

One queen bed suite OR two twin beds upstairs.

Air conditioning in bedrooms.

Designer kitchen, dining space, living room, and one bathroom upstairs.

All bed linens, towels, organic toiletries, breakfast, coffee, tea and treats are provided.

La Segreta

Borgo di Sotto Toscana Montefollonico Italy Accommodation Cozy Medieval Bedroom Fireplace Suite

Borgo di Sotto Toscana Montefollonico Italy Accommodation Breakfast Nook with Local Wine and Figs

Borgo di Sotto Toscana Accommodation Medieval Montefollonico Tuscany Italy Kitchen

Borgo di Sotto Toscana Montefollonico Italy Accommodation Sitting Nook

Borgo di Sotto Toscana Italy Medieval Montefollonico Tuscany Accommodation Bathroom

LA VEDETTA

Borgo di Sotto Toscana Medieval Montefollonico Rustic Kitchen

Borgo di Sotto Toscana Montefollonico 9 Living Room Closeup

Borgo di Sotto Montefollonico Tuscany Enchanting Bedroom Suite

Borgo di Sotto Toscana Medieval Tuscany Accommodation Montefollonico Master Bedroom

Borgo di Sotto Montefollonico Tuscany Twin Bedroom

Borgo di Sotto Toscana Montefollonico 9 Bathroom


CASTLE ACCOMMODATION

Also within the medieval village walls and part of the village castle with access to private gardens.

You may choose:

LA BICCOCA – For two guests

A queen bed suite with bathroom, kitchen, sitting room, garden with a view, and private entrance.

Partially ‘sotto terra’ (underground), keeping it cool in the warmer months.

LA CANONICA – For two to three guests (exclusively for your group)

Three bedrooms with three queen beds OR two queen beds and two twin beds.

One full bathroom downstairs and one half bathroom upstairs.

Air conditioning in bedrooms.

Country kitchen, dining room with fireplace, living room, and large garden with a view.

Private entrance.

All bed linens, towels, organic toiletries, breakfast, coffee, tea and treats are provided.

LA CANONICA

Tuscany Medieval Castle Living Space

Tuscan Living Room

Tuscan Country Kitchen

Tuscany medieval bedroom

Tuscan Traditional Bedroom

Tuscany Garden Dining Al Fresco

Tuscany Castle Garden Tower

LA BICOCCA

Tuscan Medieval Bedroom

Tuscany Medieval Living Room

Tuscany Medieval Vibe

Tuscan Bathroom

Tuscany Castle Garden
Tuscan Living Room
Tuscany door autumn vibe
Tuscan Medieval Bedroom
Tuscany Garden Dining Al Fresco
Tuscan Country Kitchen

ALL INCLUSIVE RATE


2023

CHOOSE ACCOMMODATION
(price per person):

Borgo di Sotto ‘La Segreta’
OR
The castle ‘La Biccoca’

Double $5895 SOLD OUT

Borgo di Sotto ‘La Vedetta’

Double $5895 SOLD OUT

The Castle ‘La Canonica’

Double $5895
Triple $5795

_______________________

2024

Borgo di Sotto ‘La Segreta’
-OR-
The castle ‘La Biccoca’

Double $5895

Borgo di Sotto ‘La Vedetta’

Double $5895
Triple $5695

The Castle ‘La Canonica’

Double $5895
Triple $5795

Prices are in US Dollars, per person.
Euro payments also accepted.
Payment installations available.

 

What is included:

  • Seven days (six nights) stay in medieval Montefollonico, Tuscany.
  • All meals (including refreshments and wine) for the duration of the retreat.
  • All the yoga, cooking masterclasses, food and wine workshops, thermal spa with robe, slippers, towel and cap, and entrance fees.
  • All of your transport for the duration of the experience.
  • Italian/English speaking guides.


  • All gratuities.

What is not included:

  • Your travel to and from Montefollonico (but we can help you make arrangements!)
  • Travel insurance (required).

INCLUDING DAY TRIPS

LA FOCE GARDENS TOUR & MORE

Highlights:

  • Lunch al fresco at Montepulciano’s Piazza Grande featuring small independent wine producers’ best wines with savory charcuterie.
  • Ascent to the Palazzo Tower of Montepulciano.
  • A late afternoon tour of Iris Origo’s historic La Foce Gardens.
  • A candlelit castle dinner extravaganza under the Tuscan stars.
    ________

DAY TRIP TO SIENA

Highlights:

  • Wine tour and tasting at a precious beyond organic family-run winery in Chianti.
  • Strolling, shopping, and lunch on the famous Piazza del Campo.
  • Entrance to the Siena Duomo Cathedral including ascension to the Gate of Heaven.
  • An enchanting dinner at a Tuscan farmhouse.

________

TRUFFLE HUNT, PICNIC WITH A VIEW & PIENZA

Highlights:

  • Off into the woods for a festive truffle hunt, will we find truffles or not? it’s up to Mother Nature and the cute truffle dogs’ detectors!
  • Enjoy a breathtaking view of Montepulciano while savoring Pienza’s famous pecorino cheese al tartufo, al pepe nero & gran reserva—paired with local handmade preserves, honeys and of course, wines!
  • Explore UNESCO’s world heritage village Pienza, the jewel of the Renaissance, where Papa Pio II was born and kept his summer home—we’ll take you there.

Final itinerary is subject to change and weather permitting.

YOUR HOSTS

Borgo di Sotto Tuscany Bed and Breakfast Host

Lourée Pieranni

Your life is an occasion. Rise to it.
-Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium

Lourée’s favorite quote and the reason why she wants you to have the time of your life here in Tuscany.

With her professional background in winemaking and hospitality (including event design and a Master’s degree from the Oxford School of Hospitality) you can expect a truly beautiful and festive experience!

Niccolò Pieranni

As a native of Montefollonico, whose family has been here for over a century, Nicco loves sharing all the local lore and showing guests around town.

You’ll also benefit from his professional experience in wine tours and wine education in the Napa Valley and the vineyards of Tuscany.

Rest assured you’re in good hands with Nicco, a certified tri-lingual tour manager in Italian, English, and French. Every detail will be taken care of for you!

Borgo di Sotto Tuscany Montefollonico Host Nicco

THE TEAM

Hailing from Charleston, South Carolina, meet our lovely Geneviève—a very special part of the Imaginaria Events team. She’ll be with us creating captivating autumn florals for our al fresco dinners and bringing her joyful spirit to the occasion! She’ll also be crafting our botanically-infused cocktails, leading our Spritzology class, and ensuring a beautiful aesthetic for your time in with us in Tuscany.

Genevieve’s illustrious resume of experience includes her years of bartending—including at a James Beard award-winning cocktail bar in New Orleans, as well as her vast experience with event design & management, and floral design via her company Three Graces Co.

Meet lovely Iga, a qualified 200 RYT Hatha Yoga Teacher accredited by the international Yoga Alliance association. She completed her 250h Integral Yoga education in the Samadhi Yoga school in Florence. Iga shall lead our group in healing and replenishing Hatha yoga and meditation for all levels.

For our day trips we’ll be in the trusty hands of Matteo and his team. As experts in the local area you can relax and be comfortable in luxurious Mercedes vans.

GETTING TO MONTEFOLLONICO

The nearest airport to Montefollonico is Florence (1 hr 20 mins drive) and the nearest train stations are Sinalunga and Torrita di Siena. The next closest train station is Chiusi, then Terontola-Cortona, then Rome. We can help you navigate travel to us if you would like and please do drop us a line if you’d like help planning your trip!

Fresh Organic Plums Tuscany Italy
Fresh Organic Fig Cake Tuscany Italy
Fresh Nectarines Autumn in Tuscany

Plums, figs, and nectarines, all in season!

FAQ

Payment and Considerations

You may pay by ACH bank transfer in the US, via SWIFT bank transfer internationally or by credit card via Stripe (USD only). A payment request invoice shall be provided. A non-refundable deposit of $1,500 USD per person is required to hold your place. The remaining balance is due 120 days in advance of tour date. If booking less than 120 days in advance, full payment is due.

Cancellation policy:
-Initial booking deposit is non refundable.
-After final payment at 120 days, receive a 50% refund if cancelled more than 90 days before tour date.
-For cancellation less than 90 days prior to tour date no refund is granted.

(The comprehensive travel insurance required provides reimbursement coverage in the event of trip cancellation and/or interruption during your travels.) 

Euro payments also accepted.

The age requirement for this experience is 18+.

FOR FULL TERMS & CONDITIONS PLEASE CONTACT IMAGINARIA EVENTS.

General Questions

What to pack? Tuscany in Autumn is typically warm and sunny so pack light, breathable clothing but also bring warmer layers just in case of chilly evenings. Bring flat comfortable walking shoes as our ancient villages are cobblestoned as well as hiking shoes for our nature walks in the woods.

Top recommended items to pack:

  • A scarf, cardigan or wrap for al fresco meals.
  • Natural breathable textile fabrics like linen and cotton to stay cool and dry.
  • Walking shoes for village strolls and hiking boots for woodland hikes.
  • A swimsuit and bag for your wet swimsuit.
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sun hat.
  • Mosquito repellent.
  • An umbrella in case of rain showers.
  • For the truffle hunt – bring a sturdy outfit that fully covers arms and legs with sturdy shoes or boots that you don’t mind getting roughed up a bit.
  • Smart casual dress for dinners out but the Tuscan countryside atmosphere is quite relaxed. Slow travel at its finest!

For any other questions you might have please drop us a line at stay [at] borgodisotto.com or gather [at] imaginariaevents.com!

San Biagio Church Montepulciano Tuscany
Borgo di Sotto Experience Siena Tuscany Duomo Visit
Borgo di Sotto Experience Siena Tuscany Duomo

Ancient Italian churches and cathedrals with celestial motifs.

Celestiale TOUR Booking

We would love for you to experience all the magic of Tuscany in Autumn.

Celestiale is a tour experience presented in collaboration with Imaginaria Events.

    I consent to Borgo di Sotto collecting my details through this form and sharing the information with Imaginaria Events LLC.