A group of 8 of us stayed at a villa nearby and we had dinner here twice. The food was fantastic, the dining room is lovely but it was the Chef that truly made the dinner memorable. He came to the table and explained everything on the menu. The pasta was freshly made and perfect and the Florentine steak was the best of the trip. He prepared a fabulous chicken and mushroom dish that was not on the menu for those of us who did not eat red meat. The cheese souflee was perfect, rich, but perfect and the desserts were worth every calorie. If you are anywhere Castellina in Chianti visit here.

A large group of us stayed here for just 2 nights in September. We wished we had stayed a month. Over a 3 week trip, it was the most beautiful location. The hotel is run to an exceptional standard by the manager, Birgit, and her staff work as a highly-integrated team. The location is simply stunning, with views of vineyards and forest in every direction. Our room was large and elegant, again with stunning 'classic Tuscan' views. There are so many quiet spots outside to just sit and take in your surroundings. Perhaps the biggest star, however, was the chef, who delivered the best dinners of our trip in a stunning dining room. Exactly what you imagine when you think of true Tuscan fare - fine ingredients cooked perfectly. Antipasto with all local meats, stuffed roast rabbit, pasta with wild boar ragu and fabulous desserts. Some of group even organised a private cooking class for 10 which they enjoyed immensely. I can't understand why Villa Casalecchi is not booked out months in advance, right through Spring, Summer and Autumn. It is everything you could hope for...my wife and I will be back next year for a longer stay.

Although a bit old this hotel is the perfect place for relaxing at the beautiful pool area with a spectacular view into the Chianti area as well as for discovering the central must-have seens as Firenze, San Gimignagno, Siena etc. pp. It has been very pleasant for sun bathing from mirning to noon and seightseeing the other half of the day.

We can't say enough about this villa vacation. We spent 4 days at Casalecchi and were awestruck by it's beauty, wonderful service, excellent dining and peaceful surroundings. The local town of Castellina in Chianti was the quaint, non-touristy Tuscan experience we sought. Just thinking about lazing by the pool or eating al fresco overlooking the gorgeous scenery makes me long for a return visit. Don't forget to order the Bisteca Florentina. Best we had in Italy!