Our route to Chianti(shire) took us near to Castello di Broilo, one of the few castles in the region. It was a long, steep walk up from the car park and when we got to the ticket office we were offered two organised tour options (priced very expensive and expensive) and as we were a little short of time we decided against going in, so just had a wander around the outside.
I'm pretty sure this is Sienna in the distance.
12 years ago we'd stayed near Lucca in the north of Tuscany but had made a two night trip south, staying 1 night in Sienna and 1 night in Radda in Chianti. I'd found the Relais Vignale Hotel on a last minute booking site and had got it at an exceptional price (c£80 from memory). The place is an old manor house and just fabulous; there are lots of little rooms and all exquisitely decorated (photos from 2008).
We liked it so much we wanted to stay another night but they were fully booked, although at the full rate of c£250 in those days it would have been out of our budget. When Kate and Stu were planning their 2009 honeymoon in Italy they asked us for recommendations and we suggested this place to them. I'm not sure how long they were here for but they loved it too.
So, fast forward to 2020. Knowing we'd be driving through the area I emailed the hotel yesterday to make sure they were open during the day and we could call in for just a drink (we don't eat much at lunchtime and it was hideously expensive before). When we arrived about 1430 we remembered the difficult parking access (down a very, very steep slope) and eventually found our way to reception through the little maze of rooms. I explained I'd emailed and the receptionist immediately knew my name and we were personally escorted to the new poolside bar where the bartender also greeted me by name.
Ian agreed to drive home so I could enjoy a glass (or two) of Prosecco.
Still not getting the hang of selfies.
Apart from the addition of the little pool bar, the hotel is practically unchanged and luckily the view hasn't been spoilt by anything.
Another one from 2008; this impressive building lies on the outskirts of Radda and is presumably a hotel.
And thanks to my super duper 100-400mm lens, standing in the same lay-by I was able to include people on the patio this year.
Another long day out and a long drive home. Quick drink on the patio before the sun went down and then our little friend joined us for dinner (he lives behind the light) and I just missed him going for the little bug.
