For decades, people have travelled to Italy and fallen in love with the culture, landscapes and hospitality.

For some, the experience becomes more than a holiday – it becomes a meaningful part of their life.

Former Australian rugby captain and World Cup winner Michael Lynagh, a Member of The Club at Castiglion del Bosco, is among those to fall in love with Italy and put roots down into the terroir of Tuscany. 

While playing for Benneton Treviso from 1991-96, Michael met his Italian wife, Isabella. The couple have three sons and, although the family now live in London, Castiglion del Bosco, Tuscany and the Val d’Orcia has become a home from home. 

“It’s an important family place for us: it’s where we come to relax and just enjoy each other’s company,” says Michael, who now works as Managing Director of Dow Jones Corporate EMEA. 

The Lynagh family came to Castiglion del Bosco, united by a desire to play golf in beautiful surroundings.

“The family loves golf, as I do, and we took the opportunity to visit this wonderful estate, play a little bit of golf and enjoy the great food – and particularly the lovely Brunello wines. 

“After that I became more and more enamoured with The Club and was privileged to become a Member. I just think it’s the most wonderful place to come and visit – it’s very tranquil. The staff here can’t do enough for you.”

Michael spent large parts of his sporting life trying to avoid people on the rugby pitch. 

Now he can’t get enough of being surrounded, speaking highly of the camaraderie among the Members and their guests in world-renowned Tuscany.

“I’ve found everyone so welcoming and friendly, very open. They come from all corners of the globe, with different backgrounds and histories, but once you come here and sit on the terrace with a lovely glass of chardonnay or Brunello, get chatting and ask ‘Where do you come from?’ and ‘What do you do?’ – it’s one of those unique places and opportunities to meet so many good people from around the world.

“CdB is something unique. It’s like it’s been here forever.”

As he did on many occasions as a rugby player, if Michael Lynagh could have his way he’d make one wish come true: “The only problem with being associated with Castiglion del Bosco is I’m not here enough – I’d like to be here a lot more.”

Hear Michael’s story on YouTube