Whatever comes to mind, when envisaging an enchanting escape to Umbria, this hideaway in the hills will supersede those images. Yes, you have the valley of Spoleto unravelling as far as the eye can follow.
The olive groves and vineyards, the medieval towns, and peppered rooftops of your neighbours in the distance. You have the earthy elements of stone and terracotta, copper and timber canvasing the tangible parts of your painted image.
But what happens when you combine a couple of your favourite people, with the spaces of this beautifully-built home, comes as a complete surprise.
A twist in the tale you least expected. Those that usually rise early with the birds are spending an extra hour in the delicious beds. Letting the light creep through the open shutters and across the luxury linens.
The evening ended long after the owls’ calls because the chats around the tables were too good. The candles refused to burn out, as did your stamina for storytelling. Fuelled by the smorgasbord of treats that kept the tables cluttered.
All of that fresh olive oil that tastes of the air you breathe. The wine from the nearby vineyards. The bread from the local towns. The personalities from somewhere none of you have ever been before.
Comprising of two bedrooms and one loft room with two single beds, there’s ample space
for a small group of four, navigating the green heart of Italy like eager olive aficionados. Devouring every gallon of la dolce vita that’s dished up here, in abundance.
There are spacious terraces – one of which on the roof – a perfect little plunge pool with four loungers, a pizza oven and a weber for outdoor grilling of the local market’s finds.
An outdoor shower and additional loo in the outhouse. There’s a TV, underfloor heating, a wood-burning fireplace and a speaker to inspire the chats. And then there’s those views.
All the tones of the landscape
As much as you’ll be ensconced in the bliss of Casa Olivi’s ambience, there will be those days when you wish to head out onto the winding roads, exploring the nearby towns of Macerata and Assisi.
A visit to the Spoleto Cathedral, marvelling at its porticoed facade that’s embellished by mosaics. Only an hour’s drive to the Adriatic Coast, there will definitely be some beach days.
Wine tours and perhaps you’d like to try your hands at some authentic Italian cooking classes. Browsing the local antique and food markets, for those mandatory souvenirs and ingredients for a late supper.
Back at the Casa you’ll resume the penning of your novel of Italy. Marking the words in your mind, at least, as you make all of the memories with your special clan.
One element of surprise after the next as you gaze out across the landscape, sipping something delicious, and hanging onto the laughter that drags like the hours in a European summer’s day.
Or if it’s winter or autumn, the fireplace and underfloor heating tend to the chill. As do the deep bathtubs in the dreamy bathrooms.
The indoor seating and lounging areas around the kitchen are as enticing as the outdoors. Every little detail of this home in Italy has been ardently considered. For you and your memory bank’s bestseller.