Jennifer Read tests out a Tuscan honeymoon and samples la dolce vita. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path picturesque place for a romantic minimoon, Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa’s honeymoon package is the perfect blend of indulgence and exploration.
Tuscan Honeymoon: Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa Review
In the heart of the Lucca countryside, the Serchio Valley is a spellbinding landscape, totally exactly how I’d imagined the Tuscan countryside to feel like. From the surrounding local wineries and medieval towns, including the picturesque Barga and authentic restaurants abound, the Serchio Valley reflects Italy’s true essence.
Despite the short journey time from London to Pisa (flights from Heathrow take around 2 hours and 15 minutes), I was knackered after my flight and so the complementary transfer from Pisa airport to the hotel (included as part of the honeymoon package) was warmly welcomed. I was even more appreciative of the chilled bottle of Prosecco waiting for me in my room – it’s the little details that really set this Tuscan honeymoon hotspot above the rest. After a glass (or two) of bubbles it was time to explore the grounds.
Views of the incredible Serchio Valley are inescapable throughout the resort and hours can drift by as you look out onto the rolling Tuscan hills. After soaking up the views and some of the early summer sun it was time to sample another indulgent aspect of the Renaissance Tuscany Honeymoon Package: the spa.
Transitioning seamlessly from the glorious surrounds of the Serchio Valley, the spa at Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco is a haven of indulgence, complete with aromatic perfumes, relaxing music and an elegant, nature-inspired decor.
With a healthy menu of treatments to choose from, it’s the dedicated couples’ offers that are a must on your honeymoon. I opted for the Wine Ritual. Beginning with a delicate pomace scub before moving on to an inebriating wine bath. This is designed to stimulate circulation and left my skin feeling silky smooth.
Of course, a trip to Italy – and more specifically, Tuscany – wouldn’t be complete without enjoying the delicious food and wine the region is so famous for. And on this front, the hotel certainly does not disappoint.
To really get a taste (sorry) of what’s on offer at Il Ciocco, we were treated to a culinary experience, sampling local delicacies and traditional Tuscan specialities, put together by the resort’s head chef. For couples wanting to brush up on their own culinary skills, you can sign up for a cooking class with the
All this food deserves to be washed down with some delicious local wine, so it was off to the local bio-dynamic winery for some wine tasting. After sampling some of the most crisp and delicate wines Italy has to offer, and feeling more than just a little lightheaded, it was time to head back to the resort and revel in the glorious views as the sun set over the Serchio Valley.
The Renaissance Tuscany Honeymoon Package:
- Free upgrade to a Junior Suite
- Free room service
- Buffet breakfast
- 1 Culinary experience per stay for two persons
- 1 Wine tasting per stay for two persons
- 1 Couple’s treatment at the Spa, per stay for two persons
- 1 Bottle of Prosecco at arrival
- Transfer between the hotel and Pisa airport
- 1 tourist kit provided by our navigator
The honeymoon package is available from €442 per room, per night.
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In addition to the honeymoon package for couples, the hotel can arrange wedding ceremonies anywhere within the vast estate property, whether you want to get married on the terrace overlooking the rolling hills and vineyards or in the grounds surrounded by greenery. The wedding party will be catered by the on-site culinary team who can create the perfect Tuscan feast for the menu.
For more information or to book a stay, visit: renaissancetuscany.com.
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