Castello di Leonina Relais

The setting could be beautiful, but our stay felt like a rip-off. Our first night was in Bruco, a damp, cold, dark basement room in a separate building across the street from the Castello. It had almost no natural light or outside view, looked very different from the online pictures, and had no Wi-Fi or cellphone signal. There was mould, which may also be a health risk. We paid around 250 EUR for the night. After we complained following dinner, we heard nothing until the next day, when we were moved to a Deluxe room. That room only had hand towels, with no shower or pool towels. We’re still waiting for the first night’s refund. Breakfast was okay. The sauna costs 30 EUR per hour and needs to be reserved in advance. Watch out for the laundry service too, one load in the washing machine might cost 250 EUR. This was my worst 4-star experience so far. I’ve stayed in nicer rooms in Italy for a fifth of the price.

On arrival, my partner was met with indifference and told our room wasn’t ready. We were asked to leave our luggage in the corridor, with no luggage storage, and to walk around or sit in the garden in cold rain at what was supposed to be a luxury castle. We had booked and paid for a spacious, two-level room, but got a small, dark, cold one instead. When we complained, staff said the photos were only indicative and the hotel was fully booked. That felt misleading. Throughout our stay at Castello di Leonida, in the middle of winter on January 3rd, it was 4°C, rainy, and humid, with no heating or hot water. We told staff repeatedly, but they showed no willingness to help or professionalism, saying things like “it’s not my responsibility.” A very disappointing stay, nowhere near luxury and not worth the price.

It felt like an old castle, which was nice, but I wouldn’t call it 4-star. The reception lady and the other staff were nice. Our bedsheets were stained, dirty, and torn, and the room smelled funky. The soundproofing was so bad that we could hear someone snoring in another room all night.

Roxana at reception made our stay especially memorable with her warm, professional welcome and thoughtful attention. Castello di Leonina is a magical, peaceful spot in the heart of Tuscany, with beautiful views. The rooms are charming, the food was excellent, and the whole experience was unforgettable. Highly recommended!