Tuscany in the Wintertime

Last weekend was the first time that I had ever been to Tuscany and I must admit that I was apprehensive about going in the wintertime. While the countryside is beautiful any time of year, I had heard from many people that the weather in February would be cold and snowy. Also, because it's Tuscany's off season, many of the stores and restaurants in the area are closed during the winter months. Unfortunately, everyone was right about the weather. We left the rain in Florence and drove an hour into the countryside of Colle di Val d'Elsa, where the rain turned into snow as soon as we reached the mountains. Now I understand why the concierge was so adamant on us renting an automatic car with four wheel drive, which we failed to do!

While in Tuscany we stayed at Castello di Casole, a Timbers Resort that is set upon 4,200 acres in the Tuscan countryside. On the hotel property are mountains, valleys, olive groves and vineyards. Farmhouses and villas for rent are scattered throughout the land, while the main hotel is housed in a restored castle. The property was breathtaking and my only complaint was the winding dirt roads that led from the main road to the hotel. They were at times very steep and worn, although this also added to the sense of seclusion and privacy. 

Unfortunately the hotel was closed during our stay because it was low season. Instead, we stayed in Paradiso, a four bedroom farmhouse equipped with heated floors, an infinity-edge pool and an outdoor patio. My favorite part about the house was the old stone and tile on the inside walls that served as a reminder of the villa's long history. While I am partial to the houses at Castello di Casole, I am sure that a hotel room in the main building would be just as luxurious. The benefit of being in the hotel is being within close proximity to the pool and the hotel restaurants. 

Paradiso, one of many farmhouses at Castello di Casole

The pool at Paradiso

Castello di Casole features a relaxing spa that is housed in what was once the estate's wine cellar. The hotel also has a fitness center, although many of the roads through the property are ideal for walking, running and hiking. Guests could not ask for a better location. The town of Colle di Val d'Elsa is historic and beautiful, and Castello di Casole is less than an hour from popular towns such as Volterra, San Gemignano and Siena. I highly recommend this boutique property and I already cannot wait to return.

A view of the countryside from Paradiso

Note: Although the wintertime is Tuscany's low season we loved being in the area in February. The house was incredibly cozy and watching the snow fall from the living room was like a scene out of a movie. Many of the restaurants were closed but we still made it to some great places, including Osteria del Borgo in Mensano and Officina della Cucina Popolare in Colle di Val d'Elsa. 

My parents and I enjoying dinner in at Paradiso

A private chef dinner at Paradiso

Artichoke risotto made by our fantastic chef, Susanna

Squid ink tortellini with truffle and ricotta at Osteria del Borgo

A baked onion stuffed with bread and parmesan cheese from Officina della Cucina Popolare 

When we were not busy lounging in our adorable house we drove to Siena to visit the Duomo. We also arranged a wine tasting at a local family run vineyard, Setriolo. I worked with Sophie Chamberlain of Untainted Tuscany to arrange our experiences and she was terrific. From truffle hunting to private chef dinners and gelato making classes, Sophie is able to arrange it all. 

What I learned during my first trip to Tuscany is that, any time of year, this area is an incredible place to visit. Each season brings new experiences and adventures, making return trips a must. Whether you're planning a family vacation or an anniversary trip, Tuscany should always be in the back of your mind. Molto bello! 

"You Won't Find You Anywhere Else."

It’s that time of the year again, when thoughts of summer take over our brains and make being productive nearly impossible. It also means stress and lots of it, as we wonder how in the hell we’re going to get everything accomplished so that we can spend time on the beach with our closest friends and family.  I have to admit that for the longest time, stress has ruled my life. I've somehow allowed this stupid noun to control me, and it was unfortunately not until recently that I realized just how detrimental this feeling could be.

Out of a desire to escape the hectic (and cold!) spring atmosphere of New York City, I decided to take a trip to Arizona. I wanted the opportunity to relax and I could not think of a more perfect place to visit than Miraval, a resort and spa located in Tucson, Arizona. While I had heard about the possibilities for self-discovery when visiting the property, I did not expect to receive much more than my usual tan and spa treatment. I indulged in a seaweed wrap and a deep tissue massage, but I also received something priceless, that being a new outlook on my life.

Each day started off with a healthy breakfast buffet, which included buckwheat pancakes with agave syrup and scrambled eggs made with tomatoes, spinach and parmesan cheese.  From breakfast, I would make my way to the hotel sign-up sheet for each of the day’s activities. I told myself that I would participate in one Outdoor Adventure and Challenge activity per day. My favorite was Swing and A Prayer, in which I was hoisted up 35 feet in the air and then instructed to release the rope that stabilized me so that I could swing freely. Afterward, our guide reminded us of the importance of letting go of the fears that prevent us from doing what we love in life.

I also took full advantage of the yoga and meditation classes that Miraval offered during my stay. I had not practiced in years, but I was amazed at how quickly my former knowledge returned. These classes focused on managing stress and allowing the body and mind to fully relax. My experience during the meditation class in particular cannot be put into words, but I can say that since that day I have realized just how much of my anxiety is preventable. I now attempt to take all of my responsibilities one day at a time in an effort to keep worry at bay.

What is most amazing is the transformation that I underwent during a period of four days. I can only imagine what a weeklong visit would have accomplished, and I now understand why so many of Miraval’s guests are return visitors. And if the prospect of becoming a more mindful individual is not reason enough for you to visit this destination, maybe this will do the trick. Arizona experiences over 350 days of sunshine per year. Its temperatures are high and the dry heat and lack of humidity makes every day the perfect hair day. 

Miraval is all-inclusive and guests also receive a $150 resort credit per person per night during their stay. This can be put towards expense activities as well as spa treatments. While visiting, we stayed in a two-bedroom villa that was set right at the bottom of a mountain. The views were incredible and our accommodations were extremely private. We were surrounded by nature and could often be found sitting on the back deck listening to the sounds of birds singing. It’s been three weeks and I’m already longing to return!

Tips: 

1. The best time to visit Tucson is during the months of April and May. Note that the rainy season begins in July and lasts through September.

2. While there were a couple of men at the resort when we visited, guests at Miraval are primarily women. Because of this, I found it to be best suited for a mother-daughter trip or a girl’s spa getaway.

3. Due to a lack of direct flights from the New York area into Tucson, Arizona, it is best to fly into Phoenix and then drive two hours to Miraval rather than taking two connecting flights.

4. Miraval just opened their new spa in partnership with Clarins on May 1! Unfortunately it was not completed in time for my trip, but now is a great time to visit and take advantage of the five star facilities! Click here for an online tour. 

5. Be open to new experiences when at Miraval. Although the resort has a great pool area, Miraval is about more than lying in a lounge chair all day! Be active and take full advantage of what is offered. You won’t regret it.