The Castello, dating back to 1050, is a historical gem brimming with interest and intrigue. Now, after careful restoration, it has been transformed into a singularly unique hotel filled with wit, whimsy and effortless style. Castello di Reschio truly is a slice of timeless Italy. An ancient estate sitting high amidst the rolling green hills of Umbria, making it a place for romantics and intrepid travellers alike. Imagine the silence of a sun-drenched morning, broken only by the distant echo of cantering Andalusian horses. Come here for adventure or relaxation – and leave utterly enchanted.
The Estate was bought in 1994 by Count Antonio Bolza, intent on bringing this forgotten corner of Italy back to life. In the 25 years since, Count Bolza’s son, London-trained architect, Count Benedikt, and his wife, Donna Nencia, have set about exquisitely restoring over half of the buildings on the Estate in immaculate detail, transforming them one by one into one-of-a-kind private homes. The rooms and suites contained within these ancient castle walls are imbued with personality and panache, thanks to the owners organic approach to contemporary design coupled with a discerning nod to the intriguing characters who once called this home. All is subtle and sensual in the bedrooms: a locally-crafted vanity in smooth wood and brass here; a hand-stitched linen curtain there; ancient beams you’ll want to touch and beautiful fabrics you’ll want to stroke. Terracotta-brick or wooden floors, bespoke furniture and bathrooms of marble – all flooded with natural light, with views both out over the rolling countryside and into the oval castle courtyard.
After days exploring, feast on locally-inspired dishes at the Alle Scuderie restaurant, which prides itself on using homemade produce – including honey, olive oil, pasta, and wine. And if you want to work off all that indulgence, why not make the most of the swimming-pool or perhaps the estate’s state-of-the-art tennis courts.
This meticulously restored palazzo nestles on the picturesque coast of Palermo and has been transformed into a sanctuary of opulence and elegance by Rocco Forte and Olga Polizzi.
Villa Cora’s story is as opulent as its current incarnation; built in the 1860s by Baron Oppenheim, and visited by Princess Eugenia, wife of Napoleon III, and the Russian composer Tchaikovsky.
This beautiful villa-style hotel sits on a picturesquely rugged bay near Mount Etna and was originally built in 1919 as the seaside home of an English family.
With its enviable location in the Valley of the Temples, Hotel Villa Athena offers an unparalleled retreat steeped in history and luxury, where guests are treated to postcard-worthy views of the majestic Temple of Concordia.
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