|
"Whenever I go anywhere but Italy for a vacation, I always feel as if I have made a mistake... Why bother to go anywhere, I think in those first ecstatic moments of reentry, but Italy?” Erica Jong
Whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway with endless days by the pool or a central base from which to explore southern Umbria's endless cultural offerings, Le Stalle fulfills both choices and more.
Le Stalle beckons in all seasons. In autumn, take long walks through the surrounding woods and sample the just pressed olive oil. In winter, snuggle by the fire and revel in Spoleto's holiday festivities. And in summer, take part in the myriad of cultural offerings available in the area after lazy lunches, and long afternoons by the pool.
The 17th c barn is now a home after a loving, five-year process which involved the works of two amazing architects and expert local craftsmen, we are thrilled to take residence there in June, 2008, and welcome our first renters shortly thereafter.
LOCATION
Le Stalle is located in the hamlet of Geppa in the stunning valley of the Valnerina, recently selected as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Geppa, a twenty minute drive from the Roman town of Spoleto, and home of the Festival of Two Worlds (Festival dei Due Mondi), dates to the 17th century.
The hamlet of Geppa is home to several Italian families (as well as about twenty sheep.) One of the families is available to cook evening meals featuring the specialties of the zone.
Superbly situated, Geppa is a ninety minute drive from the center of Rome and about 2 hours from both of Rome’s main airports. One can also fly to Ancona, about 2 hours away, and rent a car there. A car is recommended, though one can take a train to Spoleto from Rome and pick up a rental car there.
The new tunnel makes Spoleto a fifteen to twenty minute drive from Geppa, and there are several smaller towns in between offering cafes, grocery stores and the like.
In terms of picturesque locales, one can access a number of breathtaking towns within fifteen to thirty minutes: Trevi, Spello, Bevagna, Montefalco, Foligno. Within thirty to sixty minutes, you can find yourself in Assisi, Orvieto, Deruta, Perugia, Todi, Cascia and Norcia. Florence is about two hours by car.
There are many outdoor pursuits available in the area as well, including, walking trails, skiing, river rafting and horseback riding.
DESCRIPTION OF LE STALLE
Le Stalle is a two floor, 1800 s.f., three-bedroom, three-bath home. All rooms view the valley and the medieval towns dotting the distant hilltops.
Upon entering the hallway on the top level, one may access two of the bedrooms and bathrooms, or descend to the lower level into the living/dining room, which opens onto an expansive front terrace. An original arched doorway leads to the kitchen. One then steps through a second arched doorway onto a covered terrace for outdoor dining and lounging or enters the library, also serving as a smaller third bedroom with bathroom.
In the restoration of Le Stalle, we have preserved, as much as possible, its original structure and overall feel. Where, for example, it was structurally better to rebuild, as opposed to restore, we did so using both old and new materials. We are committed to making Le Stalle environmentally low impact, and thus have used local supplies and traditional methods where possible.
In terms of style, Le Stalle will highlight the aesthetics of both modern and antique Italian design. It will also contain our favorite pieces gathered during our years abroad in both Europe and Asia. Our hope is that you will find great comfort in the beauty and simplicity of Italian design enriched by elements of the centuries old silk road trading route between Europe and Asia.
Each bedroom offers a queen size bed and ensuite bathroom. All bathrooms contain walk-in showers finished in Italian tile. One of the upstairs bathrooms features a 17th century marble sink, as well as a bathtub.
The downstairs bedroom offers a sofa that opens into a queen size bed. The living room and dining room are combined. The entire ground floor is done in polished concrete. while the upstairs floors are chestnut.
In the center of the kitchen, you will find a custom made island housing an 18th century stone sink, dishwasher, work and dining space. In addition to a stove, oven and refrigerator, we will have an Italian coffee pot, place settings for ten, all the necessary pots and pans, a variety of glasses and other accessories. You will find a selection of local foods, wines and spices, as well.
Off the kitchen, there is a pantry with washer, as well as additional storage space. From the kitchen, one can walk out another set of arched doors to a covered terrace, ideal for outdoor meals or lounging. The view down the valley is stunning; several medieval hilltop towns are visible.
THE POOL
The large infinity pool measures approximately 170 sq.m, is oval in shape and blends into the natural surroundings. The water flows over one side into a stream for children (and adults) to play in, and on the other side is a hydro massage unit. The surrounding grounds have olive and fruit trees with plenty of space for barbecues etc. The pool is located below Le Stalle and connected by a set of stairs. The pool is shared with guests or owners of the palazzo and former convent next door.
OTHER
Please don't hesitate to contact us if you would like any additional information. Further description can be found on our website - see link below. Details of the restoration work are also linked below. |
