Looking for a nice place to stay in Tuscany? In this beautiful region you will find plenty of nice hotels or Bed & Breakfasts in the countryside. But how about staying in a monastery? I stayed a whole week at Bassetto Guesthouse in the town of Certaldo. An extraordinary experience in an old monastery! If you are also looking for a nice stay in Tuscany, feel free to read on….
What would you like to know about Bassetto Guesthouse?
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The monastery and the Via Francigena pilgrimage route
Bassetto Guesthouse is located in a building that has its origins in the 14th century. In fact, back then this was a monastery. But also one where you could spend the night. Here pilgrims slept who walked the Via Francigena route towards Rome. Via Francigena literally means “the way of the Franks” and began in Canterbury, England. From there you walked through France and the Po Valley through Tuscany to Rome.
In 990 A.D., the Archbishop of Canterbury, Sigeric (died in 994) set out for what is now the capital of Italy. It was a challenging route, braving the mountain ranges of the Jura, Alps and Apennines. Even today, there are those who walk the Via Francigena. From the Netherlands, pilgrims usually start in Maastricht and then join in France. Among other things, the monks of the monastery produced wine for their guests!
From monastery to farm
In the 19th century, the convent came into the hands of the aristocratic Guicciardini family. They owned a number of fine properties in Tuscany. Members of the family were influential in local and national politics, among other things. Bassetto Guesthouse they transformed into a winery. Thus, more than 3,000 hectoliters of wine were produced each year. Since 1998 it has been a guesthouse with a particular focus on backpackers.
Practical information about Bassetto Guesthouse
Bassetto Guesthouse is located on the outskirts of the town of Certaldo. From the train station it takes about 20 minutes to get there. This is one of the few disadvantages when traveling by public transport. The advantages are that it is centrally located in Tuscany, with cities such as Florence, Pisa and Siena being reached within 50 minutes by train.
You are also within 20 minutes in Certaldo and the castle. And in addition, you can join a number of tours that can be arranged by Bassetto Guesthouse. Think of a Food & Wine tour (make your own pasta) or joint tours to nice towns in the area. And at the guesthouse you can use the swimming pool or just relax and lounge in a hammock. Ideal for a week’s stay!
Spending the night at Bassetto Guesthouse?
By now, are you convinced to visit this ancient monastery in Certaldo? I myself slept in a double room with bathroom. Prices for private rooms are around €80 euros per room. For a bed in a dormitory you pay between €25 and €30 per night. The rooms are basic, but the staff and the whole atmosphere at Bassetto Guesthouse is fine.
Book your room at Bassetto Guesthouse here on Hostelworld
Plan your trip to Certaldo & Italy
Accommodation?
Certaldo is a good base for exploring the province of Tuscany
Book your Hotel or Guesthouse here
Tickets & Tours?
In Certaldo Alto you will find a number of nice museums that are really worth visiting. With a combi-ticket for these museums, a nice lunch and an evening dinner, you can easily spend a whole day. Or book other fun activities in Tuscany!
Looking for the Best Activities? If so, Book the best Tickets & Tours here via GetYourGuide
Flight tickets to Italy?
To Tuscany, it is best to fly to Florence or Pisa. Other options are Milan and Rome and then by train to Florence
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Rent a car?
The best way to explore Tuscany is by car!
Find the best rental companies here
Public transport?
Are you going to explore Tuscany by public transportation? By train you can easily get to cities such as Florence, Lucca, Pisa or Siena.
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Do you have any comments or tips about this article on the Bassetto Guesthouse? If so, feel free to leave a message below.
Read more about Certaldo?
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Chiesa dei Santi Jacopo e Filippo – Discover the Tomb of Boccaccio
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