We are proud to present this next issue in our series focusing on the people, culture and communities that make up our diverse Waterstone Collection. Throughout the series we will continue to introduce you to people who, as ambassadors for their local cultures and communities, offer a range of unique experiences with passion and a true sense of hospitality that we believe will help inspire your clients to travel again when the time is right.
“When we bought Borgo Pignano, the hamlet needed extensive work. It became our duty to refashion the relationship between the property and the surrounding countryside so that Borgo Pignano could sustain itself using as light an energy footprint as possible. By pioneering sustainable technologies to be used throughout our land, once parched fields are now alive with fruit trees; much of our heat is generated from woodchips drawn from surrounding forests; solar panels supplement our electricity needs and we have recharging ports for e-vehicles. Our passion for the sustained rejuvenation of this land is apparent every day, with guest experiences weaved into every aspect of our organic working farm. We ardently believe in the power of travel to protect the natural environment, benefit local people, and preserve cultural heritage, and we look forward to welcoming you and your clients to help us in our mission here at Borgo Pignano – your intimate Tuscan haven."
— Sir Michael Moritz, Owner of Borgo Pignano, Financier, and Author
Guests of Borgo Pignano become one with nature, experiencing the stunning views of the nearby medieval village of Volterra and enjoying a taste of authentic Tuscan living in an enchanting country house setting. Couples and families alike appreciate the elegant yet informal operation of the resort, its commitment to sustainability and the wide variety of environmentally friendly activities available for all ages.
The estate’s virgin woodland, fields and protected flora and fauna are an ideal backdrop for nature walks on the many trails. Partridge, pheasants, cranes, storks and more can be spotted, while wild boar, roe deer, badgers, foxes and porcupines make their homes in the surrounding woods.
The 700 acre organic farm produces a wide variety of foods and products for use at the resort. Soaps and shampoos are made on the property, flour is milled on site to make bread and pasta, while olive oil, wines, honey and preserves all come from their trees, vines and beehives. The resident horses feed on homegrown hay and the five-acre vegetable garden supplies fresh asparagus, artichokes, tomatoes, potatoes, peas, raspberries, strawberries and more for the daily restaurant menus. Guests can select a Vermentino white wine or Ciliegiolo and Colorino red wines harvested on site; menu ingredients and produce that can't be grown on property are sourced locally.
Borgo Pignano’s commitment to sustainable agriculture is mirrored in its commitment to the local community. Over 70% of the staff live in the area, including nearby Volterra just across the valley. The work of local artisans is featured throughout the estate, and authentic traditions are woven into the property’s architecture, culinary delights, wellness treatments and overall philosophy. A true leader in sustainable practices, the resort received the 2019 award of excellence for 'Sustainability in Europe & the Mediterranean' from Condé Nast Johansens.
Their in-house herbalist gathers wild and cultivated herbs for the kitchen, while perfumes and scented oils are used in spa treatments. Additional wellness focused activities offered to guests include horseback riding, yoga classes, trekking and e-biking. An ‘artist-in-residence’ offers painting classes in season, while contemporary art exhibitions are curated every 6 months at the Pignano Art Gallery, which is housed in a former storage barn.
Leading Borgo Pignano’s transformation to become one of the world’s most reputable sustainable resorts is their incomparable CEO Luciano Lusardi, a friend and well known partner to travel advisors. While staying at Borgo Pignano, Luciano recommends:
1. A visit to nearby Volterra, home to a recently undiscovered Roman Amphitheatre and San Gimignano with its abundant towers and heritage
2. A guided tour of Borgo Pignano’s organic farm with Enzo, the head farmer, in his 4x4 jeep
3. Cocktails at sunset on the terrace or by the infinity pool with a view of Volterra across the valley
5. Exploring the estate's many paths and trails by foot, on horseback, or e-bike
Congratulations to Borgo Pignano for recently being recognized by Condé Nast Johansens as the 2021 'Best Countryside Hotel in Europe and the Mediterranean'. See below for more information on the property.
