We’re always on the lookout for unique destination wedding spots. So when we recently got the invitation to travel to Tuscany with David Beahm, we couldn’t pass it up! Not only is David one of the top event designers in the U.S., he is an old-school gentleman with exquisite taste. So when he said we needed to see a hotel, we knew it would be special!
A hilltop town-turned-hotel, Monteverdi Tuscany is in Castiglioncello del Trinoro, near Chiusi. The Italian-American owners fell in love with the medieval-era town and started buying and renovating apartments. The result: A one-of-a-kind hotel spread throughout the town, home to approximately 10 full-time residents. As a guest, you live life like the villagers have for centuries, strolling the cobblestone lanes to breakfast and taking in the stunning Val D’Orcia views above the tile rooftops.
The 10 rooms and three villas are uniquely designed, and exquisite in quality and minimalism. Local designer Ilaria Miani does things the Tuscan way, with hand-fired tiles, furnishings made by local artists, and crisp, thick linen sheets we couldn’t get enough of. Rooms incorporate original detail wherever possible; think exposed roof beams and fireplaces.
She also incorporates modern statement pieces, like carved bedposts and this amazing copper soaking tub.
I stayed in the bi-level Villa San Pietro; along with two bedrooms, a sitting room with fireplace and a full kitchen, it had its own wine cellar! Just write down what you take, and settle the bill at checkout.
Of the villas, Muri Antichi is the largest, with six bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen (chef services available), comfy living room and an outdoor gazebo for long, lazy meals. All are available for week-long rentals, making it perfect for smaller wedding groups or family gatherings.
The fave hangout spot is Enoteca, with features local wines, fresh cheeses and salumeri, and terrace seating overlooking the valley. Cuisine is overseen by chef Giancarla Bodini, who celebrates Tuscan ingredients and traditions, elegantly presented and customizable to guest tastes.
We were there for four days, and barely touched what there is to do in the Val D’Orcia: wine tasting at Casanova di Neri (their Brunello has earned a perfect rating from Wine Spectator), shopping in Montepulciano and strolling the elaborate English gardens at La Foce estate. The hotel also has a small pool overlooking the valley, perfect for summer days.
David and his team got to know the whole area intimately when they designed the wedding of the owner’s daughter in spring 2014. The elaborate celebration went so well that Monteverdi is now doing destination weddings, with David Beahm Design as the exclusive designer for events small and large. The property is ideal for a buyout; you can literally take over the town.