in the authentic heart of Tuscany
Sustainable Farmhouse in Maremma: our green philosophy
At Tenuta Il Cicalino, sustainability isn’t just a promise, but a constantly evolving method. Across nearly 300 hectares in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma, among the olive groves and woods of Massa Marittima, we’ve built a hospitality model where renewable energy, responsible agriculture, and biodiversity protection translate into daily choices that are measurable and verified by independent bodies. Part of this journey is the transition toward organic farming: a concrete commitment we’re carrying out on the Tenuta, convinced that respecting the land is the starting point for respecting those who live here and those who visit.
Toward an Organic Tenuta: our commitment to nature and to those who choose us
Becoming an organic Tenuta means making consistent daily choices without asking our guests to compromise. Our commitment to organic farming is reflected in what you find on your plate, in the care with which we treat the land, and in the spaces that welcome you.
Renewable energy and photovoltaic self-production
Part of the electricity used by the Tenuta comes from renewable sources. In 2024, our photovoltaic systems self-produced 52,619 kWh—more than double the previous year—with over 26,000 kWh fed back into the grid. Thermal requirements are met by a wood-chip boiler integrated with LPG systems and twenty new-generation heat pumps for climate control in the poderi, all registered with the Regional Land Registry and subject to periodic energy efficiency checks.
Responsible
water resource
management
Responsible agriculture and soil protection
On 51 hectares of olive groves, we cultivate Frantoio, Leccino, and Arbequina varieties following strict protocols such as the National Action Plan for the sustainable use of plant protection products and the guidelines of the European TOPPS project for the prevention of point source pollution. The results are in the data: the use of agrochemicals has dropped from 0.807 tons in 2022 to 0.205 tons in the first quarter of 2025. The use of plant protection products, fertilizers, and seeds is entrusted exclusively to trained internal staff.
168 hectares of woodland for biodiversity
Over 60% of the Tenuta is woodland: 168 hectares preserved as habitat for local wildlife and an ecological corridor between cultivated areas. Walking or running along our three marked trails (5, 7.5, and 11 kilometers), it’s common to encounter hares, pheasants, and the species that inhabit the olive groves. Tenuta il Cicalino has been applying protocols shared with research partners for years to promote biodiversity within agro-ecosystems.
Zero waste and circular economy
In every apartment and common area, you will find bins for the separate collection of the four main waste categories. Since 2023, organic waste has been disposed of in special composting bins installed within the estate, closing the organic waste cycle directly on-site. Staff training is ongoing, and multilingual communication in the apartments also involves guests in the project.
Soft mobility: bikes, trails, and electric charging
To move around the Tenuta, we provide electric and classic bicycles, as well as a charging station for electric cars. The three internal trails of 5, 7.5, and 11 kilometers allow you to walk through olive groves, woods, and panoramic viewpoints, letting you choose your own pace of discovery with a slow tourism approach.
pet friendly
Pet Friendly: together with Almo Nature and Fondazione Capellino
DCA ESG Certification:
commitment verified by third parties
DREAM&CHARME certification:
ethical responsibility and hospitality
Certified sustainable accommodation facility. Human rights, labor relations and conditions; Environmental impact; Customer, user and consumer management; Local community involvement and development; Sustainable sourcing.
The accommodation facility complies with the D&C:2020 Standard
LANDGRÜN brand:
rural and conscious tourism in Europe
FAQ
Certifications, renewable energy, sustainable mobility, and authentic nature in Tuscany
What makes Tenuta Il Cicalino a sustainable farmhouse?
Tenuta Il Cicalino is a sustainable farmhouse in Maremma certified according to the DCA ESG standard, based on GSTC and ISO 21401 requirements. Sustainability is achieved through self-produced renewable energy, low-impact agriculture, responsible water and waste management, green mobility, and the protection of biodiversity across nearly 300 hectares in the Municipality of Massa Marittima.
Is Tenuta Il Cicalino certified as a sustainable farmhouse?
Yes. The Tenuta adheres to the DCA ESG Sustainable Certification, issued by the only Italian body accredited by ACCREDIA according to ISO 17065 for the evaluation of accommodation facilities. The standard incorporates GSTC and ISO 21401 requirements.
How much renewable energy does the farmhouse use?
Part of the electricity supply comes from renewable sources. In 2024, the Tenuta’s photovoltaic systems self-produced 52,619 kWh, of which over 26,000 were fed into the grid. Heating is supplemented by a wood chip boiler and heat pumps.
How do you reach the poderi within the Tenuta?
We provide electric and classic bicycles, as well as a charging station for electric cars. The internal trail network (5, 7.5, and 11 km) allows you to move between the poderi on foot, immersed in the olive groves and woods of the Maremma.
Is the farmhouse pet friendly?
Yes, we welcome pets. For their food, we have chosen Almo Nature, in line with our commitment to quality and the biodiversity protection values promoted by Fondazione Capellino.
