Given its ancient history dating back to the Etruscans, there is some gentle irony in Reschio’s recent inclusion in Condé Nast Traveller’s prestigious Hot List of the Best New Addresses Around the World.
What is new, however, is that guests can stay at this idyllic estate and experience refined Italian country living in unique holiday accommodation, whether for a weekend getaway or longer.
In 2021 the Count and Countess Bolza opened the doors of the meticulously restored thousand-year-old castle that is the centrepiece of their magical estate.
The estate is in the countryside on the very edge of Umbria, with views disappearing over the rolling hills of Tuscany. Whether you choose to be a guest in the exquisite Hotel Castello di Reschio or prefer the private sanctuary of one of eight historic, exquisitely appointed farmhouses set in the magical wilderness of this 1 500-hectare estate, you will find yourself utterly enchanted.
When Count and Countess Antonio Bolza first made Reschio their family holiday retreat in 1984, they had no idea that the vast, overgrown Umbrian estate concealed a multitude of ancient ruined farmhouses and a castle on which construction first began in the year 900.
For the family, the estate was a chance to restore the surrounding Italian countryside to its natural glory.
The result is a timeless capsule of Italy as it once was and always should be: dense oak forests, wild flower meadows, rolling hills, shady olive groves and the air heady with the sounds and scents of birds, insects and wild animals that find sanctuary here.
Luxury accommodation that exudes understated elegance
As their children grew up, the dream of sharing this unspoilt utopia with like-minded souls became a reality. Their son, Count Benedikt Bolza, who studied architecture in London, lent his considerable expertise to creating award-winning homes from the once-ruined farmhouses. (Architectural Digest hails Count Benedikt as one of the 10 best architects working today.)
Each of the eight magnificent, completely unique villas keeps to the footprint of original farmhouse, and every one of them maximises its location, with undisturbed views of the surrounding Reschio wilderness.
The beautifully decorated perfect hideaways, with their lush gardens, swimming pools and grounds, create a private sanctuary and nature retreat for you to share with your family and friends.
For the family, the reincarnation of the castle into the truly magnificent 36-room Hotel Castello di Reschio was a fantasy brought to life. As you pass through the entrance where the working florist is artfully arranging wildflowers destined for your suite, you are overcome with a sense of wellbeing.
Stroll via the bar to the light- and plant-filled conservatory, where the grand piano is a subtle hint of the jazz and classical performances that bring summer evenings to life.
At Reschio you have the sense that the clock has stopped to fix you in an era of sublime rustic perfection. Extravagantly luxurious yet understated, the interiors with their bespoke furnishings ooze style and comfort.
The two restaurants – Ristorante Al Castello and the less formal Ristorante Alle Scuderie – both prove that ingredients are taken very seriously indeed at Reschio. The menus feature the estate’s own organically grown produce and seasonally foraged flavours. Delicious fare, spectacular views and high-glam interiors will have you lingering over your meals in true Italian style.
Edited by Dawn Kennedy