This property was recommended to us by Mario and we decided to take our close family there and have our wedding. We had high expectations for the property as well as the location in the Italian countryside based on the property listing and the description given to us by Mario. Just before we left for our trip, we were a little worried that it would not quite live up to the pictures that we had formed in our mind.
Once we arrived (after winding our way up a little country road through the forest, right to the top of the hill), we were totally blown away by what we saw! The place is straight out of a fairy-tale... it is a tiny self-contained village, with its own chapel, central dining and socialising area, swimming pool, several apartment units and its own 1000 year-old castle tower. The views are completely out of this world (especially from the top of the tower), forest everywhere, with the local farmlands and villages below, several castle towns on neighbouring hills and even snow covered mountains in the distance.
Renato, the host at the hamlet, has spent the last 20-years pouring his heart and soul into restoring the place and it shows in his dedication and commitment to the place. He absolutely loves the place and he wants every guest to love it as well! Everything is immaculate and in its place, without ever seeming artificial. One really does think that you are living in your own little hill-top kingdom.
Renato provided our wedding day feast and it really was a feast! The food was authentic Umbrian style and made and served with absolute passion from Renato and his team - a must do to accompany any stay!
The local village in the valley has a mini supermarket style shop where one can get basic supplies and the local pizzeria has really great food and drink, so there really is no need to ever leave the kingdom... if however, one decides that a bit of exploring is called for, then the location in the heart of the Italian countryside, right on the border of Umbria and Tuscany, is really spectacular. There is easy access to the highways via several small towns, or else take one of several winding roads and see the villages, castles, lakes, mountains, forests and everything else that this paradise has to offer!
There is absolutely no hesitation in recommending this property for an amazing holiday experience. The pictures and words will make you think there is no better place on earth... but actually experiencing it will make you certain!
