Lo Scudaio

A palazzo on the edge of a historic village center in Tuscany? The very thought of it conjures up images of vaulted ceilings and round arches, of gnarled olive trees and vineyards, of colorful linens fluttering in the sun in front of sand-colored patinaed facades. Lo Scudaio in Montescudaio is located between the hills of the Etruscan valleys and the sea, surrounded by Mediterranean maquis forests that stretch as far as the river Cecina. The elegant old residence was built in 1923 by the Marchionneschi family on the foundations of an 18th century building. In the past, travelers would have refreshed themselves or changed their horses in the former riding stables. Later on, it was converted for agricultural purposes and the oil mill and wine cellar still bear witness to this. And today? Architect Ulrich Caspar and his wife, film producer Käte Caspar, have carefully renovated the residence and restored it to its original splendor. Past and present intertwine in this place that tells stories, that radiates peace and serenity. The ten rooms are spread over two areas of the house. A stone staircase leads to the oldest wing of the palazzo, the B&B Scala Antica. This houses five rooms in the loft which feature a pared-back modern interior with characteristic exposed roof beams. Those who prefer to sleep where the Marchionneschi family did in times gone by can opt for one of the five rooms in the Scala Grande guest house with its colorful ceiling paintings and magnificent floor mosaics. Indeed, this place really does come very close to the Tuscan dream, except that it’s even more stunning in real life. Then there’s the aromatic scent of pine trees, the warm light and the wonderful feeling of not having to do anything else but immerse yourself here with all your senses. We recommend a nice glass of Vermentino to go with it!

WHAT WE LIKE MOST:

• The understated design that tastefully complements the historic walls without stealing the show. All rooms have been renovated with lime paint and furnished with linen and cotton fabrics in natural and earthy tones.
• If you have a nostalgic streak, enjoy walking in the footsteps of history here. One of the deluxe accommodations is housed in the former owner’s maid’s room—a suite in the Marchionneschi family’s former dining room.
• No matter which room you choose, the view (whether of the evergreen magnolia, the park, the village or over the hills and the sea) is always wonderful.
• Different eras, styles and cultures are reflected in the architecture allowing you to go on a creative journey of discovery.
• The lovingly prepared breakfast with seasonal organic products, many from small local producers, is served in the Sala Grande under cross vaults, in the bar area, in the fireplace room or on the veranda.
• What is the greatest luxury of all? Exactly, a good night’s sleep! If it can be achieved anywhere, then here, in the handmade beds from the British company Vispring—sprung beds filled with natural materials such as horsehair, sheep’s wool and cotton. Feather pillows, cotton and linen bedclothes and bamboo comforters make it even cozier.
• In the large garden with pine, olive, lime and magnolia trees, you can relax and read or simply let your thoughts wander.
• The climate here is mild and pleasant all year round.
• The location in the medieval village of Montescudaio, which developed around a Benedictine monastery around the year 1000. Nestled between vineyards and olive groves, it is situated on a hill and offers a magnificent view of the sea and the offshore islands.
• Authentic village life—“real” Italian life can be experienced here all year round, even outside the high season.
• The area surrounding the house, which is so rich in flavor, tradition, history and culture. If you like, you can discover something new here every day and enjoy the beauty of the little things in life.

GOOD TO KNOW:

• There’s also a great climate inside the house. There’s air conditioning for hot days and underfloor heating for cooler days.
• There’s plenty of space in and around the house for sitting, reading and socializing. A sunny Laboratorio, which is open to the garden, is available for activities, seminars and small private events as well as for Qi Gong and yoga meetings.
• In the Sala Grande is a bar which is open from afternoon to early evening. Tea and drinking water are also available here for guests.
• As a contribution to the environment, a heat pump is used to produce hot water and rainwater is used for irrigation and air conditioning.
• Fully biodegradable soaps and care products are available in the bathrooms. Towels are also provided.
• All year round, there are opportunities for activities nearby, such as culinary tours or a visit to the thermal baths, wineries, archaeological sites, towns and villages—all of which have their own special charm.
• There are a few good restaurants, a pizzeria and a nice bistro in the village, all within walking distance.
• Here, you can experience real village life—there are two grocery stores, a butcher and a baker who bakes his own bread. And every Friday, you can buy vegetables, fruit, cheese or flowers at the market, just like the locals do.
• Lo Scudaio is located 16 kilometers from Bolgheri and 30 kilometers from Volterra. You can reach the sea in around 15 minutes by car. The nearest airport is Pisa, some 70 kilometers away.

CIN IT050020B4Y6K5ARVP