It will join Belmond’s portfolio of Italian Icons, which includes Belmond Villa San Michele in Florence, Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice and Belmond Hotel Splendido in Portofino.

Belmond Castello di Casole is located within easy access of Florence and Siena. The intimate, 39 room hotel sits within 1500 acres of farmland, vineyards and olive groves; one of the largest private estates in Italy.

Roeland Vos, president and chief executive, said: “I am delighted to announce the addition of the stunning and historic Castello di Casole to the Belmond portfolio.

“The Belmond brand continues to gain momentum and this acquisition marks the latest step in our journey towards realising our strategic growth plan. We believe this stunning castle, steeped in Etruscan history, builds on our past experience of acquiring distinctive, timeless properties and restoring them to their iconic status through strategic investment.”

Belmond Castello di Casole dates back to the 10th century; owned by Italian aristocratic family, the Bargalis, who for generations farmed the landscape and latterly by acclaimed cinematographer Luchino Visconti.

Belmond expects to invest €7.3 million in a phased refurbishment of the hotel over four years, including the addition of two new villas, bringing the resort’s total key count to 41.