Belmond is stretching the traditional Tuscan travel calendar, keeping two of its signature Italian estates open well beyond the usual summer peak. Villa San Michele, a former 15th-century convent perched above Florence, will now welcome guests through 3 January 2027 — its longest season on record. Castello di Casole, a 10th-century estate in the Val d'Orcia, will remain operational until 29 November.
The move responds to growing demand for shoulder-season travel in Italy, a trend that has been gaining momentum across the luxury hospitality sector. By extending operations, Belmond aims to capture the autumn market, when the region's vineyards, olive groves, and cultural landmarks are at their most atmospheric.
Extended seasons, curated experiences
At Villa San Michele, guests can immerse themselves in Florence's artistic heritage through the Masters of Savoir Faire programme, which offers private visits to local artisans, restoration workshops, and cultural custodians. The hotel's Spa by Guerlain provides wellness treatments, while the fine-dining restaurant Antesi, led by Executive Chef Alessandro Cozzolino, showcases seasonal Tuscan ingredients with a contemporary twist.
Castello di Casole, set within a sprawling estate that includes vineyards and olive groves, offers a holistic wellness journey at its Essere Spa. Activities include forest bathing, meditation hikes, and truffle hunting — experiences that align with the slower, more reflective pace of autumn. The property's three dining venues draw on the land's seasonal produce, with menus that change as the harvest progresses.
Both properties are introducing two-night stay packages that bundle private transfers, room upgrades, and a €200 spa credit. The packages are designed to simplify the booking process for travel advisors and to encourage clients to extend their stays, a key strategy for boosting revenue during the extended season.
“We are seeing a clear shift in traveller preferences toward more immersive, off-peak experiences,” said a Belmond spokesperson. “By keeping these properties open longer, we are not only meeting demand but also showcasing Tuscany's autumn beauty — from the golden light on the hills to the harvest festivals in the villages.”
The extended seasons also reflect a broader industry trend. Luxury hotel groups are increasingly looking to maximise asset utilisation, and Belmond's decision to lengthen operations at two of its most iconic Italian properties is a strategic move to capture the lucrative autumn and early-winter travel windows. This follows similar initiatives across the sector, such as Four Seasons Yachts expanding its fleet to meet growing demand for extended luxury travel.
For travel advisors, the extended availability offers new opportunities to sell Tuscany outside the traditional June-to-August peak. The packages, which include transfers and upgrades, are positioned as a seamless way to experience the region's cultural and natural attractions without the summer crowds.
Belmond's move also aligns with a wider push toward sustainable tourism, as spreading visitor numbers across more months helps reduce pressure on popular destinations. The company's commitment to preserving the heritage of its properties — from the frescoes of Villa San Michele to the ancient cellars of Castello di Casole — remains central to its brand identity.
As the travel industry continues to adapt to changing consumer behaviours, Belmond's extended Tuscan season is a clear signal that luxury hospitality is no longer bound by traditional seasonal calendars. The company is betting that travellers will embrace the quieter, more intimate side of Tuscany — and that the autumn months will become as coveted as the summer ones.
