Castello Banfi - Il Borgo

As a longtime guest of Relais & Châteaux properties, I’ve come to trust the brand for consistently exceptional service in some of the world’s most inspiring locations. I specifically chose Castello di Banfi for its association with the Relais & Châteaux five-star promise, Banfi’s globally recognized brand, and a price point that signaled an unsurpassed experience not to be missed. Sadly, our recent stay fell far short of that standard—and we were deeply disappointed to be wrong. There is no denying the stunning beauty of the property or the charm of the Tuscan setting. The cooking class with Giacomo and wine tasting with Bernadette were highlights—authentic, personal, and truly memorable. Unfortunately, the service throughout our stay was inconsistent at best and at times nonexistent. Turn-down service was spotty, and breakfast and dinner at La Taverna were marred by slow, chaotic, and disorganized service. Evenings were especially poor, with no staff presence and only a non–English-speaking front desk clerk available. The winery tours arranged by the hotel were uninspired and did not showcase the richness of Tuscan wine culture. The hotel’s lack of casual evening dining options was particularly frustrating. With La Taverna closing one night per week and no alternative bar or terrace dining available, room service was our only option—and even that failed due to miscommunications with staff. We ultimately went without dinner that night, which is simply unacceptable for a high-end resort. There is a Michelin-rated restaurant that the hotel attempted to direct us to, but given the multitude of service issues we experienced throughout our stay, we had little confidence that this recommendation would deliver expected standards. Most troubling was the hotel’s response to our concerns. Staff appeared flustered and defensive, and no real effort was made to resolve the issues while we were there. This created stress during what should have been a relaxing and indulgent stay. I subsequently I raised these concerns directly with Relais & Châteaux, expecting at least an acknowledgment of the serious service gaps we experienced. Unfortunately, their response was equally disappointing and disheartening—lacking any meaningful recognition of the issues, accountability for the brand’s standards or indication they would take corrective steps. To be clear, this was a major trip for us—one that involved considerable planning and expense. We left feeling disappointed and shortchanged. These were precious days we won’t get back, and the service failures at Castello di Banfi are a lasting regret. In summary: Castello di Banfi is a visually stunning property, but beauty alone cannot make up for a lack of hospitality, service, and care—especially at this price point. It does not function as a full-service hotel, nor does it meet the expectations of a true five-star experience. Guests expecting attentive service, thoughtful dining options, and polished hosp

Thanks for a special relaxing time. This simply was one of the best resorts I have been to. Maybe because I love Brunello, maybe because I love castles , maybe service maybe the grounds in Val D’ Orcia or maybe because I love good clean Italian food ? All of above and more!!!!! The pool overlooking Val D’Orcia was like a painted picture. The food was the best we have had in a long time. The wine, please , the best. Our classic suite overlooked the vineyards, it was spacious. Breakfast was good, dinner and lunch in la taverna was fabulous. The wine pairing was fun and delicious. The tour was good. There’s nothing I can say negative only positive and will be my go to in that area.

We were very disappointed with our room. We were travelling with our adult daughter and booked the largest room at your hotel, the superior suite. The sofa bed was of inferior quality and not fit for an adult to sleep on. Housekeeping tried to put on another mattress and topper but it didn't make much of a difference. Reception offered us another adjoining room at a further cost which was unacceptable given the supposed 5 star hotel we booked. As a result we had to shuffle between the one proper bed and the sofa bed and none of of could sleep during the 3 nights we were there. These rooms are not fit for 3 adults and the whole stay was disappointing as a result.

Went here for a VIP tour. The tour start with a lunch in their taverna. The food was amazing. We had a full four course meal with a "cheese ball" starter, pasta as prima and veal as secondi with icrecream for desert. We have a great sampling of the vines from Banfi with the meal and great service. After the meal we went on a tour of the Banfi winery and ended up with a tasting. Our guide Paul did a fantastic job. This is a major brunello provider that goes back to 15th century with beautiful views. We loved the experience.

Wow...what an outstanding place. Food, wine and hospitality were all 5 star. Fantastic team of staff - Silvia, Alda, Marisa and Maddalena. Awesome experience in the wine room with Lisa. Fantastic tour of the production facility. If you are looking for a tremendous spot in Tuscany to visit nearby wine operations, look no further than Banfi. Absolutely tremendous. I'll be back!

For Avid fans of Brunello di Montalcino, Banfi needs no introduction. Driving from Rome it was easy to find. But the welcome and the attention to detail we got at Poggio Alle Mura was first class. The premier room we had in this boutique hotel was wonderful. Spotless, relaxing, quiet and with two enormous bathrooms. The Michelin starred restaurant I will write a separate review for. The staff were all wonderful. Local Italians were supported by some notably great Portugese colleagues. Everyone who worked there were excellent and this was a truly truly first class and relaxing experience. The wine tour was very interesting, the Taverna had great food, and the very knowledgeable Lisa, taught me that a British person can be an expert in wine AND speak perfect, fluent Italian. This lady was as inspirational as the setting, the team, the welcome the food and the wine- all wonderful. Thank you I will be back next year.