Umamma
A panoramic, two-story loft with a secret pool in a historic Tuscan setting.
How would you describe Galenda in a nutshell?
Galenda is a recently renovated 15th-century borgo in a quiet but easily accessible location in the hills of Tuscany’s dreamy Chianti Classico region. Each of the apartments combines authentic historical architecture with very modern interior design, making them ideal for families and small groups.
What was your inspiration for Galenda?
When my father found Galenda many years ago, it was a dilapidated village that he brought back to life. As the structure was already there, it made sense to create individual apartments and rent them out. The idea was to restore the historical substance so that it would last for the next 100 years.
During subsequent renovations in 2005 and 2019, we made the interior design more contemporary in order to get this contrast between the historical exterior and modern interior. For example, we have redesigned the bedrooms and added super comfortable box spring beds, built new wall panelling in bog oak and basically just brought everything up to date with a bit of a facelift.
Please tell us about the borgo.
Borgo Galenda is part of the village of Galenda, with around 15 locals still living in its historic core. For this reason, you shouldn’t think of it as a tourist resort. There are 12 apartments in total, some of which are rented out, and a communal pool that never feels crowded. When staying at the borgo, you are part of the village and have a connection to it. Galenda Borgo is unique in that it combines historic 15th-century walls with modern interiors and that doesn't happen very often in Tuscany.
Is Galenda best suited for adults or also families with children?
Galenda is absolutely perfect for families with children. We recommend Lippi for families with small children who are happy to sleep on the sofa bed and Bellini for families with older children. We have also constructed a children's pool so that the kids won't get bored!
To you personally what is so special about Galenda and how would you describe the atmosphere?
The special thing about Galenda is the wonderful surroundings of the Chianti Classico region. Tuscany is big and there is a gradation: Tuscany, Chianti and then Chianti Classico. And we are really in the heart of Chianti Classico, which is a very special area that’s beautifully situated in the hills and embedded in wonderful nature. The tranquility is fantastic and the changing light is just incredible!
Also special is the borgo’s proximity to the cultural attractions of Florence, Arezzo and Siena. So it's a combination of everything — the flair of the landscape, the fantastic cuisine and great wine, and the Tuscan people — all set in the middle of what is one of Italy’s cultural treasures. There are wonderful places all over the world. But in terms of the landscape, the quality of the food and wine, this area is simply a dream. When it comes to beauty and aesthetics, Chianti is world-class.
