Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Answers to frequently asked questions about the Domus Socolatae Residenza d’Epoca Charming B&B: check-in, breakfast, facilities, wellness, beaches and tips for your stay in Follonica.
Why DOMUS SOCOLATAE?
A love of cocoa stems from the history and traditions of a Tuscan family. This experience was subsequently enriched through an ethical project on the cocoa-growing islands of Africa, ultimately leading to the creation of unique themed essences.
Is it easy to get to you by train?
Follonica is situated on the Rome–Turin railway line, which runs along the Tyrrhenian coast. The Domus Socolatae Residenza d’Epoca Charming B&B is about 500 metres from the railway station and is therefore easily accessible on foot.
Do you offer an airport shuttle service?
Yes, on request and provided sufficient notice is given, we offer a shuttle service to the nearby airports of Pisa, Florence and Rome.
Which is the nearest airport?
The nearest airport is Pisa Airport, which is about 100 km from Follonica.
When was the DOMUS SOCOLATAE Historic Residence built?
The building dates back to the 1920s, the Art Nouveau period.
Do you accept children at the Residenza d'Epoca?
The Residenza d’Epoca is strictly an ‘Adults Only’ establishment, designed to ensure maximum peace and quiet. The minimum age for check-in is 18. In very exceptional circumstances, we may accept children over the age of 12.
Are dogs allowed on the premises?
To preserve the historic character of the building and ensure our guests’ peace and quiet, pets of any kind and/or size are not permitted at the Residenza d’Epoca.
Where and at what time do check-in and check-out take place?
Check-in takes place between 2.00 pm and 10.30 pm directly at the property, at Piazza Vittorio Veneto 21 in Follonica. Self-check-in and online check-in are also available. Check-out must take place between 8.00 am and 10.00 am. Early check-in and late check-out are available on request, subject to availability.
Is there a luggage storage service available?
Yes, a luggage storage service is available.
Is breakfast included? Do you offer options for people with food intolerances?
Yes, breakfast is included in the room rate. We offer a generous buffet breakfast, featuring both continental and Italian options, with homemade and locally sourced produce, served in the conservatory. We can provide vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options on request.
What time is breakfast served?
The breakfast room is usually open from 8.30 am to 10.00 am.
Do you serve breakfast in the room?
Yes, on request we can provide breakfast in your room for an additional charge of €15.00 per person.
Is there a car park?
There are free and paid public car parks in the immediate vicinity. The property also has a number of parking spaces in a private garage, at an additional cost of €12.00 per day, subject to availability.
Is there a bicycle parking facility?
Yes. In the immediate vicinity, about 150 metres from the property, we offer our guests a bicycle storage service in a private, locked garage, for an additional charge of €5.00 per day.
Can we take our bikes into our room?
No, you cannot keep bicycles in the rooms.
Do you run a spa or a wellness centre?
Yes, we have a Jacuzzi hot tub in the garden, open from April to the end of September (weather permitting). During the winter months, we offer exclusive ‘Domus Therapy’ massages and treatments using cocoa, available in your room and bookable well in advance.
Is smoking permitted on the premises and in the rooms?
No, smoking is strictly prohibited in all indoor areas. However, it is permitted in outdoor areas, such as balconies and the garden.
What are the rules regarding room cleaning and changing towels?
Rooms are cleaned daily. Bed linen and towels are changed free of charge every three to four days. Any additional towel changes requested will cost €15.00 per person.
How much does it cost to use the hot tub in the garden?
You can use the jacuzzi for an additional charge of €10.00 per person (€15.00 per couple).
What types of massage do you offer, and how much do they cost?
With a constant focus on our guests’ wellbeing, our speciality is cocoa massages. We also offer other types of treatments. On request, we can provide our brochure containing all the details.
Can I use the kitchenette in my room?
Yes, provided it is included in the type of room you have chosen. The kitchenette must, however, be left clean; otherwise, a surcharge of €15.00 per day will be applied for additional cleaning.
Do you offer a beach service?
Yes. Domus Socolatae Residenza d’Epoca offers its guests a range of special offers at partner beach clubs in Follonica. The terms and conditions for access and booking, as well as any discounts, vary depending on the beach club and the time of year. We therefore invite you to contact us to receive up-to-date information and check availability for the dates of your stay.
Which are the nearest beaches?
The property is situated in the centre of Follonica, close to many beach clubs. There are also public beaches, which can be reached by bike. The most famous are Torre Mozza, Parco della Sterpaia, Mortelliccio, Cala Violina and Cala Martina.
Can I hire beach towels?
Yes, at a cost of €10.00 per towel.
Can I buy Domus Socolatae-branded products?
Yes, you can buy them either at the centre or via the website https://www.domussocolatae.com/en
Is it true that you can hold weddings at the Residenza d'Epoca?
Yes, the Residenza d’Epoca is a town hall and we can organise small ceremonies for up to 20 guests.
What else can I do in Follonica apart from going to the beach?
Su richiesta forniamo suggerimenti e pacchetti di soggiorno personalizzati. Follonica si presta a esperienze enogastronomiche, come le visite alle cantine d’autore Rocca di Frassinello (progettata da Renzo Piano) e Petra (progettata da Mario Botta). Offre inoltre percorsi nella natura a piedi e in bicicletta, visite ai parchi artistici, minerari e naturalistici, e gite all’Isola d’Elba e nell’Arcipelago Toscano.
Are there any Etruscan sites near Follonica?
The nearest Etruscan towns are Vetulonia, Populonia and Roselle, each with its own museum. We are happy to provide further information on request.
What sports can you do in Follonica?
As well as going for long walks along the beach at any time of year, you can go horse-riding, cycling, trekking and hiking, as well as enjoying water sports, sailing and running.
What events are organised in Follonica?
Follonica hosts a wide range of musical, theatrical and sporting events.
What is the weather like in Follonica?
Thanks to the Gulf’s unique geographical layout, the climate in Follonica is generally very mild, even in the depths of winter. This encourages outdoor activities and a healthy lifestyle all year round, making it ideal for remote working and business travellers.
Is there a focus on inclusivity at the Domus Socolatae Residenza d'Epoca?
Yes, we are LGBTQ+ friendly and welcome travellers from all backgrounds, cultures and ethnicities.
Is sustainability a priority at the Domus Socolatae Residenza d'Epoca?
We have chosen to combine environmental, economic and social sustainability in every detail: from the conservation-focused restoration of the villa and the family’s furnishings to our technological and plastic-free choices, from energy from renewable sources to ethical tourism projects in Africa, on Príncipe Island (São Tomé and Príncipe), the ‘Cocoa Islands’.