Casale del Mare

Laura was a great host and clear about the charges, and the location was good. The turn off the highway onto a gravel road felt a bit unnerving for a first-time visitor, though. We’d come back, but with different expectations. This is a winery first and a hotel second, so it seems like there’s room to introduce guests to the wines they make, perhaps for free or at a good discount. That could help build a returning customer base. We were invited by friends who spoke highly of the place. The room was good and the AC worked well, though some extra doors and design touches felt gimmicky, almost like an IKEA room. The mattress could be better, and there was a blood stain on the sheet, so we didn’t have it replaced. Other services cost extra: coffee pods were €1 each, replacing sheets or towels cost €20 per request outside the weekly change, and cleaning a room that wasn’t a suite cost €30 on request. Breakfast was €12 per person, which seemed reasonable, but the menu was simple. Some of this could be improved by charging a little more for the room and removing the extra fees, with wine discounts offered to introduce guests to the wines. The website could also make the details clearer.

We had a lovely stay, thanks in part to the helpful staff and Laura. The place feels peaceful, surrounded by nature, with olive trees, vineyards, horses beside the large pool, and views of the sea. The sunset over the water from the terrace was amazing, and the good air conditioning helped make up for a very basic kitchen and bathroom. The Cerro room was fine, but the spot where the children slept was less comfortable. The restaurant makes the most of the views, though its food felt expensive for the quality and taste.

The peace and beauty of the place really stayed with us. Thank you, Laura and the whole team. My wife and children loved the food, the pool, and our outings nearby, including the seaside, San Giminiano, and Pisa. I was there with my family, and even my mother-in-law was happy, which isn’t easy. Casale del Mare feels like a living expression of The Magic of Italy. Grazie!

Laura was a big help arranging taxis to and from the Station, and also a ride back up after our lovely meal at La Conchiglia, Di Thommaso. We enjoyed three days here, especially the pool, the views, and the breakfasts, where eggs were cooked to order. The walk down to Castiglioncello took us about 35 minutes, mostly downhill.