How many rooms do you have and what is the max capacity?+

24 apartments with a total of 27 bedrooms, 13 semi-private (walk through) rooms and 29.5 bathrooms. There are a total of 63 beds. 80 guests maximum.

Do your packages include guest accommodation??+

Yes, for up to 80 guests.

What if we have less than 80 guests? Is it cheaper??+

No, we do not charge per guest - we charge per event. 80 people is the max amount, and we recommend keeping it lower for maximum guest comfort. With 50 guests each couple or small group of friends can have their own room and bathroom. If you have the max number of guests that means most will be sharing rooms and bathrooms. In the end this makes things easier for both sides. No more worrying about if someone joins or pulls out last minute - as long as it's not over 80 we are good to go!

What accommodation does my package or exclusive rental of the castle include?+

When renting the castle exclusively the client receives all 10 guest apartments in The Tower, all 7 apartments in Borghetto and all 5 apartments in Fattoria. Sleeping a maximum of 80 guests. Common areas both inside and outside the castle are also included, these do have opening and closing times though.

What is included in the Brunch Buffet? +

Scrambled eggs, sausages, croissants, fresh bread with local jams and our own honey, cheese, yogurt, muesli and fruit. Vegan and gluten free options are available when arranged beforehand. Includes Coffee, Juice and Still Water. Specialty coffees are additional.

What’s included in the Simple Breakfast Buffet? +

Fresh bread with local jams and honey, cheese, yogurt, muesli. Includes Coffee, Juice and Still Water. Specialty coffees are additional.

What’s included in the Open Bar packages? +

Included in the open bar is beer, white and red wine and cocktails including: Gin & Tonic, Vodka Soda, Paloma, Mojito, Moscow Mule, Aperol Spritz, Gimlet, Hugo, Dark & Stormy, Rum & Coke, Sidecar. Non-alcholic options are available. Shots are not permitted.

Do you have a wedding planner if I need more help with planning?+

If you decide on a full package it is not necessary to have a planner but it could be nice to have a day of coordinator. If you want to add a lot of things on top of the package that we don't provide - such as tents, heaters, different dishware or glassware we recommend you hire a planner to help with those additional details.

What is the cake like included in my package?+

It is a beautiful traditional Italian millefoglie cake. Large enough for your guest list. You are welcome to send any special requests for your cake for an additional charge.

What is the DJ like included in my package?+

A fun and energetic professional DJ with lighting and sound equipment. We will put you in touch to discuss songs, timing, special requests, etc. You must submit a playlist for the Rave Cave (no the DJ won't just hit play and walk away!)

What are the flowers like included in my package?+

A medium (generally 18-20 stems) sized bouquet of roses and olive branches and one boutonniere with one rose and small olive branches. Also included for the wedding arch is one large bunch of olive branches and one small bunch of olive branches.

Can I change the bouquet or add more flowers?+

Yes! We will send you a form with all the info on the flowers. You can upload a photo of your dream bouquet and we will send it to the florist. You can add on bridesmaid or mother of the bride/groom bouquets, groomsmen or father of the bride/groom boutonnieres. You can add flowers to the olive branch bouquets on the wedding arch.

What are the live musicians like included in my package?+

Depending on who is available on your date we have a variety of talented musicians we’ve worked with in the past. All bring a uniquely fun and beautiful Italian charm to your dinner. You can choose only in the PLUS package.

Can our guests book and pay for their own rooms? +

Not through us, but you can set it up separately. When you book exclusively all the rooms are included and you can arrange your guest’s accommodations yourselves with a detailed apartment list we'll provide to you. If you want your guests to pay for their own stay we suggest to make a wedding website and set something up with paypal and charge per person/per night. This blog might be helpful to you.

How can guests pay us for their rooms? +

We recommend to add a pay link to your wedding website. On PayPal you can create a link with a photo and name it (YOUR NAMES Wedding Accommodation). This makes it easy for them and you and it feels less like they are paying you and more like they are paying their accommodations.

Can we bring our own alcohol? +

No. All alcohol must be purchased at the castle and served by our staff. Alcohol may not be served to minors. Illegal substances are not allowed at any time on the premise. Drunken/Violent disturbances are prohibited and subject to immediate removal from the premise and possible termination of event without refund.

Can guests buy their own drinks or snacks while on the property?+

Yes, the Ristonchi Reception opening hours are normally 9am - 9pm. On evenings like Pizza Night the reception bar will be open later. Guests can purchase beer, wine, soda, water, ice cream and snacks. All items will be added to their individual guest room bill to be paid at check out.

Do you have Barbecues/Grills we can use?+

No, barbecues and grills are not available for guest use. BBQs can be arranged by Ristonchi staff only.

Is there a minimum or maximum stay?+

For exclusive rentals there is a 3 night minimum. Maximum is 7 nights.

What is required to book?+

A signed contract and the first payment. The total is split into 3 non-refundable payments. 34% is due at the time of booking to secure your dates and begin your planning. The last payment is due 60 days before your arrival. The middle payment will be due somewhere in between that. If your event is within one year the payments are divided into 2.

I'm not sure, can you hold the date for me until I decide?+

The only way to secure your dates are to sign the contract and send the first payment. Once you recieve the proposal we'll try to hold the date for a week to give you a chance to sign the contract and send the first payment. If it's not completed within a week the contract expires and the dates are released.

When is final payment due?+

60 days before your arrival date.

What are the check in and check out times?+

Check in 4pm/16:00 Check out 11am/11:00

Can we check in early?/Check out late?+

The couple and less than 5 others can arrive earlier to start preparations. Check your contract for specific timing. **Check-in is strictly 4:00 PM for all other guests. We usually have an event checking out the day another one is checking in, we don't want your guests to show up to mounds of dirty laundry and empty wine bottles. It is important they arrive when the reception is open and they can recieve a proper welcome, their room is ready and our staff members have had a chance to rest for the afternoon before giving incredible service the rest of the event.

What forms of payment do you accept?+

Bank transfers and cash. We have an international bank account through Wise. We have bank accounts in many countries and can save you international transfer fees.

Will other events be scheduled on the same day as ours?+

No. We only offer exclusive rental so you will have the entire castle property privately for the duration of your event.

Are you licensed to provide alcohol service?+

Yes.

Can you accommodate physically challenged guests? Is the site handicap accessible?+

We are sorry but we haven't been able to make these upgrades yet. There are no elevators and many stairs. We do have some ground floor apartments and the main areas are accessible by only a few steps however the bathrooms and doorframes are quite narrow.

Are there restaurants and grocery stores nearby?+

We have a restaurant onsite which will provide your catering and is only open when arranged in advance. The nearby towns Pelago (10 Minute drive) and Pontassieve (20 minute drive) have grocery stores and restaurants. Nearest restaurant is Villa Grassina (5 min drive or 15 min walk).

Are there any noise restrictions we need to know about?+

There is an outdoor music restriction of 11pm. Parties any later would need to move inside to the Rave Cave at this time.

Do you have a back-up solution for rain or inclement weather?+

If you have 70 people or less your event could easily be transitioned to inside. The ceremony could be in the onsite chapel, the dinner could be in the onsite Templar Hall. Both are beautiful and unique locations. If your guest list is above 80 people you should arrange to rent a tent or marquee. The cost of this starts around 5,000€.

Are there any additional charges not included in the rental or packages I should be aware of?+

No, we will not charge any additional fees. Tourist Tax is already included as well as SIAE Music Tax: Italian laws command to pay a music rights tax called SIAE. Some other services you may want to leave room in your budget for are: *Transportation to and from the castle *Babysitting *Additional decor or flowers *Photographer *Videographer *Hair and makeup *Drinks if you want to offer your guests more than is included in the package

What if I want to change my reservation date?+

The CLIENT must promptly give Castello di Ristonchi a written notice of such a date change request, containing a general statement of the reasons for such postponement and an approximation of the anticipated new date.

Castello di Ristonchi shall use its reasonable best efforts to offer a desirable new date to the CLIENT. Once a new date is agreed upon by both parties a new contract shall be made with the following postponement fees applied: a) 20% of the total when the new date is less than one year away; b) 30% of the total when the new date is more than one year away. c) 35% of the total when the new date is more than 18 months away. The above fees must be paid in full for the new contract with a new date to be valid.

What if I need to cancel my event/wedding?+

In the event of a cancellation six-months before the event all payments made to date are non refundable. In the event of a cancellation less than six-months before the event all payments made to date are non refundable and all outstanding payments will be due immediately. All cancellations or reservation changes must be made in writing. CLIENT is responsible for verifying that Castello di Ristonchi has received their cancellation request. Castello di Ristonchi will not refund any advance payment for a canceled reservation and is allowed to re-book the open dates. Castello di Ristonchi is not responsible financially, legally or in any other way in the event that a function is cancelled through an act of God or through sabotage.

If a shuttle service or airport transfers are needed, can you assist with setting it up? +

Yes, after your booking we will send you a list of recommended vendors, including transportation companies.

Can I bring in a cake from an outside bakery?+

Yes, but if your cake must be refrigerated there is not storage space for it. There is a 500€ flat cutting fee which includes plates, forks, napkins, the set up and clean up.

Do you offer vegetarian and vegan options?+

Yes. Once your booking is made we will send you your personalized planning board and forms to fill out. One form is for the dietary restrictions where you can add requirements of your guests. We can easily accommodate; gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian,vegan and allergies. For Kosher and Halal there is an additional fee as we do not have a Kosher kitchen and must get the food from a certified Kosher restaurant and purchase additional supplies to prepare it that have not touched non-kosher foods.

Is there parking? Will guests be charged for parking?+

Yes there is onsite parking free to all guests for around 20 cars. We recommend your guests carpool.

What are the nearest airports?+

The nearest airports are: Florence (40km/1 hour), Pisa (115km/2 hours), Bologna (120km/1.5 hours by car or 30 mins by train)

What is the nearest train/bus station?+

Pontassieve Station and S.Ellero Station Take bus 343 A Saltino Centro and get off at stop ‘Paterno_V’

What’s the weather like?+

During the months of May, June, August, September and October you are most likely to experience good weather with pleasant average temperatures. On average, the warmest months are July and August. On average, the coolest month is January. November is the wettest month. July is the driest month. For monthly averages check out https://weather-and-climate.com/average-monthly-Rainfall-Temperature-Sunshine,pelago-tuscany-it,Italy

Are there mosquitoes?

Yes, in the summer months there will be mosquitoes. It wouldn't be Italy without them!

Are pets allowed?+

Yes, only in certain apartments. There is a 100€ fee per pet. You can get 50€ back at the end of your stay if the apartment is clean and in good condition. Pets are allowed in: Borghetto: 6, 7 and Fattoria: 1, 4, 5, 6.

Do you have a pool? Is it heated?+

Yes, we have a beautiful outdoor pool filled with natural spring water from our mountains. It is not heated.

When is the pool open?+

Generally Mid-April through October. Hours are from 9am to 9pm.

Can my guests go hiking?+

Yes, Ristonchi Castle is on top of a mountain surrounded by olive groves and an ancient forest with over 20km of marked paths for walking and cycling. Guests can ask reception for recommended trails.

Is there wifi at the castle?+

Yes, wifi is available in the meeting rooms, Templar Hall, Breakfast Room, Rave Cave and all common areas inside and outside, the pool and all the Tower/Castello guest rooms. Average download is 134 Mbps and upload is15 Mps. Peak is 300 Mpbs. The Fattoria and Borghetto apartments have very thick stone walls and do not reach the wifi.

What is the nearest town?+

The small town of Pelago is situated at the foot of the castle. You will find monuments, museums and churches dating back to the 14th century. The nearest large town is Pontassieve with more stores, restaurants and the train station.

What is there to do/see in the area?+

-Florence is 30km away, less than an hour drive. -'The Mall' the luxury designer outlet with Gucci, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, is a 20 minute drive. -Vallombrosa Abbey is a marvelous piece of architecture and an oasis of peace surrounded by beautiful forest nature - also a 20 minute drive. -There is a winery and vineyard for wine tastings and a tour less than 10 minutes drive. Try Travignoli. -And a beautiful golf course with restaurant 30 minutes drive. We offer activities like guided foraging walks, yoga, cooking classes etc. -Hiking is free and abundant trails surround the castle. Mountain bikes can also be rented from an outside company. -We recommend once you and your guests are at the castle, everyone stays at the castle and spends time together.

Can you provide childcare or recommend any babysitters during our party?+

We are happy to provide recommendations in advance.

What timeline do you usually have for the wedding day?+

This depends on the time of year but generally as an example: 9am - 10:30 Wedding Day Brunch 1-3pm Panini truck open at the pool 4pm Ceremony 5pm (Pictures) aperitivo 7pm Dinner 9:30pm Cake 10:00pm Party 12am Late night snack 2:30 Rave Cave closes

Is it possible to have night food as well?+

Yes, a late night snack of parmesan truffle fries is included in our package.

Do you have a recommended photographer for the wedding day?+

Yes, we have an extensive list we will send you once you’ve made your booking.

How do you handle the food-situation on the not-wedding-day?+

All meals are included for all guests in the packages for all days you are here.

Is it easy to get to the castle by public transport?+

No. It’s a train, bus then an uphill walk. Better to book van transportation or rental cars.

Can we customize one of your wedding packages?+

Yes, with our Easy With Everything PLUS Package you can of course customize. Additional charges apply.

We have more guests than your 80 person max can accommodate. Are there nearby options for them to stay?+

Yes, there are a few nearby villas/homes for rent within 5 minutes drive. This is included in our info packed after you book.

Are the rooms air conditioned?+

No, they are not. The castle has very thick stone walls so the rooms stay on the cool side, even in the summer. There are some of the lofts or higher floors of the tower that do get very hot in summer months. We have fans for all rooms. If booking in July or August prepare for the heat and warn your guests.

Do you have a chapel or church nearby? How much is the rental? What’s the capacity?+

Yes we have a chapel on site available. Maximum 70 guests. Subject to availability and Covid precautions. https://www.forbes.com/sites/irenelevine/2018/07/03/8-luxury-wedding-destinations-with-divine-chapels/#470e31426ab1

Will there be discount on the rates if we choose weekday: Tuesday-Friday?+

No.

How are children counted in the packages?+

If the child will take a bed and a seat at the meals they should be counted as a guest. If the child will sleep in a baby cot, be on a lap or with a babysitter during the meals they do not need to be counted in your guest total.

Can we make our payments via credit card?+

No. We are only accepting bank transfers at this time.

What does the “Welcome Pizza & Wine Party” include?+

Our Make Your Own Pizza event is always a huge hit! The perfect opportunity for all your guests to get to know each other while rolling out fresh dough and sipping local wine around the stone pizza oven built right in to the castle tower! We put out a buffet of fresh, local ingredients so your guests can have a real Italian experience and create the pizzas of their dreams! The buffet opens up to the banquet hall and terrace with tables and chairs, bistro lights and the perfect place to watch the sunset. The evening includes appetizers and 20L of wine. Still water is also included.

What does the package’s post ceremony apertivo include?

Prosecco and seasonal appetizers, for example: Assorted local cold cuts: Salami, prosciutto and more, served with homemade bread Prosciutto and melon salad Caprese platter with buffalo mozzarella, tomatoes and basil Trio of vegetarian bruschetta: Classic tomato and basil, Sautè zucchini and mint, Scamorza cheese and truffle oil Selection of cheeses: Parmigiano, pecorino and more, served with Ristonchi honey and homemade marmalade.

What does the 3 Course Wedding Reception Dinner include?+

First Course Choose two pasta options: * -Tortelli stuffed with potatoes and parmesan, served with traditional Bolognese sauce -Farfalle pasta with prawns, zucchini cream and basil -Vegetarian Option: Farfalle pasta, zucchini cream, sun dried tomato, basil -Vegetarian Option: Ravioli with browned butter and sage

Main Course Choose two options: * -Grilled chicken, lemon and garlic marinated -Beef striploin “Tagliata Style” -Italian Pork Roast -Vegetarian Option: Barley salad with cannellini beans, arugula, grilled halloumi and pomegranate seeds -Vegetarian Option: Baked tomino cheese with Ristonchi honey and walnuts -Vegan Option: Caponata with hummus

Side Dishes: Choose two side dish options: * -Roasted potatoes -Vegetable caponata -Mixed summer salad -Arugula and shaved parmesan

Dessert: Assorted Italian sweets and pastries

Drinks: Still and sparkling water as well as unlimited red and white wine during the dinner.

Is it possible to hold a civil wedding at your venue?+

Yes, this can be done inside our chapel or anywhere on our property outdoors. We recommend getting married in your home country legally and having a symbolic ceremony here in front of your loved ones. It will save you so much time and money. If you really want to we suggest you get a a wedding planner to help you with the paperwork, especially if you don't know Italian.

Are there any additional cleaning fees?+

Only if there is a serious mess left behind. Then money will be taken out of your security deposit. This only happens if there is vomit, other bodily fluids, complete disregard for the lovely humans that work here or excessive cigarette butts thrown all over the beautiful nature.

Can I bring my own decorations?+

Yes. Keep in mind all decorations must be approved by the owners and removed without leaving damages. Any outdoor decorations must be approved by the owners and must be removed the night of the event. Note: The use of birdseed and blowing bubbles is permitted outside only. Rice, confetti, fake flower petals, balloons, glitter are not permitted inside or outside the facility. Castello di Ristonchi is approximately 1,000 years old and is a historic structure. We ask that you and your guests take special care not to damage or mar any of the unique carvings, initials, wall hangings, decorations, etc. located throughout our facility.

Can we bring our own alcohol?+

No. Our alcohol Premises Licence has a condition attached which prevents customers from bringing alcohol to any any public area of our property. Guests may bring and enjoy alcohol they purchased as long as it is kept in the own guestroom. Alcohol may not be served to minors. Illegal substances are not allowed at any time on the premise. Drunken/Violent disturbances are prohibited and subject to immediate removal from the premise and possible termination of event without refund.

Can we bring in an outside caterer of our choosing?+

No. Our food reputation is important to us. If you wanted to bring in a specific vendor to share some cultural food at one point during the event this could be possible. However they must have a food truck or similar as it wouldn't be possible to use our kitchen.

How far in advance should we start planning our destination wedding in Italy?+

We recommend booking around one year in advance. Some couples book up to 2 years in advance to get the date they really want. If we have the dates available you can book as little as 6 months ahead.

How can we ensure the quality and reliability of local vendors and suppliers?+

That's the beauty of our pacakges! We do most things in-house, and the vendors we use are trusted professionals who we have worked with over 50+ times. They are committed to keeping a good relationship with us and only provide our clients with the best products and services.

What are some unique and memorable activities or experiences we can offer our guests during their stay in Italy?+

Our package includes a pizza making party in the castles 1,000 year old stone oven and a pasta making class from scratch. Our other popular activities are the Ristonchi Farm and Foraging Tour, where we take guests around the property and farm to see our olive groves, beehives, hemp fields and garden. After this they taste our products. Another option is a wine tasting where a local vineyard brings their wine to the castle and teaches you all about it while you taste it. Guests could take a painting class and paint the Italian countryside or the castle, a great souvenier to bring home! You can bring board games or a soccer ball, go on a hike together, hang at the pool together, orgazine a karaoke party, have a fire pit with s'mores. These can all be added on after your booking if you decide.

Do we need a wedding planner or coordinator, and how can they assist us throughout the planning process?+

No, with our packages a seperate planner is not needed or recommended. We have already fixed all the details for you and made a plan and checklists of what you need to do from booking up until your wedding.

How can we navigate language barriers and ensure effective communication with local vendors and authorities?+

If you speak English it will be easy! Everyone on our staff and our vendors speak English as well as our recommended companies for transportation, babysitters, photographers, hair and makeup, etc.

Are there any local marriage traditions or customs we can incorporate into our destination wedding in Italy?+

1.Confetti: (not the paper kind!) In Italy, confetti refers to small candies, usually sugared almonds, which symbolize good wishes for the couple. Including confetti in your wedding favors or as part of the dessert table is a lovely way to embrace this tradition.

2.La Tarantella Dance: The Tarantella is a lively Italian folk dance that is often performed at weddings. Consider having a Tarantella dance during your reception, inviting your guests to join in the joyous celebration.

3.Italian Wedding Toasts: In Italy, it is customary for friends and family members to offer toasts to the newlyweds during the reception. Encourage your loved ones to prepare heartfelt toasts or speeches, expressing their well wishes and love for you as a couple.

4.Bomboniere: Bomboniere are small, beautifully packaged gifts that are given to guests as a token of appreciation for their attendance. Consider providing personalized bomboniere that reflect your unique style and personality, such as small bottles of olive oil, limoncello, or artisanal soaps.

5.Italian Cuisine: Italy is renowned for its delicious cuisine. Incorporate traditional Italian dishes and flavors into your wedding menu, such as antipasti, pasta dishes, regional specialties, and gelato. Your guests will appreciate the culinary journey and savor the authentic flavors of Italy.

6.Olive Tree Planting: Olive trees hold a symbolic meaning of peace, love, and fertility in Italian culture. Consider incorporating a ritual where you and your partner plant an olive tree together during the ceremony as a symbol of your growing love and life together.

What are the legal requirements for getting married in Italy as a foreign couple?+

We HIGHLY recommend you get married in your home country and have a symbolic ceremony in Italy. If that recommendation isn't enough, here is what would be required of you to legally marry as foreigners in Italy:

Required Documents: You will need to provide specific documents, including valid passports, birth certificates, and a Certificate of No Impediment (NULLA OSTA). The NULLA OSTA is a document issued by your home country's embassy or consulate in Italy, stating that there are no legal impediments to your marriage.

Nulla Osta Verification: Before traveling to Italy, you must have your NULLA OSTA translated into Italian and authenticated by an Italian Consular Office. This process ensures that the document is recognized by Italian authorities.

Statutory Declaration: In addition to the NULLA OSTA, you may need to provide a statutory declaration stating that you meet the legal requirements for marriage according to your home country's laws.

Legalization and Apostille: Depending on your home country, you may need to have your birth certificates and other relevant documents legalized with an Apostille or authenticated by the appropriate authorities. This step ensures that the documents are recognized as valid and authentic in Italy.

Civil Ceremony: In Italy, civil ceremonies performed by a mayor or a delegated civil registrar have legal recognition. You will need to contact the town hall (comune) in the city or town where you plan to get married to inquire about their specific requirements and book a date for your civil ceremony.

Witnesses: Italian law requires the presence of two witnesses during the civil ceremony. They must be at least 18 years old and can be family members or friends.

Timing and Residency: There are no specific residency requirements for getting married in Italy, but it is advisable to arrive a few days before the wedding to complete any necessary paperwork and meet with local officials. The timeline for submitting documents and completing legal procedures may vary depending on the specific town or city where you plan to get married.

It is important to note that these requirements are general guidelines, and the specific procedures may vary based on your home country and the region in Italy where you plan to get married. It is recommended to consult with the embassy or consulate of your home country in Italy and work closely with a local wedding planner or coordinator who can guide you through the legal process and ensure compliance with all requirements. All of this will of course add to your budget and take up a lot of your time.

Remember to start the legal documentation process well in advance, as it may take time to gather the necessary paperwork and complete the required translations and authentications.

Can we have a symbolic ceremony in Italy if we choose not to have a legally binding marriage?+

Yes, that is recommended!

How do we decide which rooms to place our guests in?+

This will be a bit of a puzzle for you but we will guide you! We will send a pdf with room layouts, info on how many stairs, photos of the rooms, the views and the entrances. It will be easy to visualize where the apartments are and where to best place your friends and family.